Agri-Biosciences

Overview

Biotechnology plays a crucial role in continuously improving the sustainability and productivity of the agri-food sector. The Agri-Biosciences degree programme is designed with industry collaborators to meet the growing need for scientists with excellent knowledge and technical competency in animal and plant biotechnologies.

The programme content is industry-focused, and topics covered are contemporary and relevant, both nationally and internationally. Lectures are supplemented with relevant examples, case studies, projects, site visits, web tools, and interactive media. There is a strong focus on practical biotechnological techniques with approximately 50% of the student’s contact time spent in the laboratory gaining in-depth technical experience.

Year 1 and 2 of the programme provide a strong foundation in biology modules with students also undertaking programme- specific modules in animal and plant sciences, and agricultural and environmental biotechnology.

Year 3 and 4 of the programme provide further specialisation, with students covering core topics relevant to animal and plant biotechnologies including applications of DNA technologies, immunology, veterinary diagnostics, animal nutrition, reproduction, food safety, genetics, and the role of the microbiome in promoting health and sustainability.

The mandatory work placement in year 3 is an integral and exciting element of the programme in which the student joins the workforce of a relevant organisation for a full semester (Jan to Jun). The student acquires first-hand experience of industrial practices and modern analytical techniques, while further developing their professional and personal skills. Students also develop their networks through engagement with industry stakeholders.

What will I study?

First year at a glance

As well as learning the main core science subjects in first year, students will also be exposed to the following:

• Cellular systems in animals and plants and their effect on growth and function
• Applications of biotechnology in animal and plant systems and their relevance to industry
• The anatomy of domestic animals and internal systems which allow them to carry out biological functions
• The main components and production systems of food products such as meat, milk and vegetables
• Modern laboratory methods relevant to industry

Entry Requirements

Entry 2024

For admission to a programme, standard applicants must

• score the necessary CAO points and
• meet the minimum entry requirements

Leaving Certificate in six subjects i.e. H5 in two subjects and O6/H7 in four other subjects. The six subjects must include Mathematics and either English or Irish grade O6/H7.

For Non-EU International Entry Requirements please visit https://www.mtu.ie/international/non-eu/.

Career options

Employment Opportunities

Comprehensive training in biotechnology, microbiology, animal and plant sciences, health and disease, and quality systems will allow graduates to gain employment both nationally and internationally, as key players across a variety of sectors, including:

• Veterinary disease diagnostics
• Microbiology
• Animal and plant genetics
• Animal nutrition and feed production
• Food development and production
• Quality assurance and quality control
• Animal and plant reproduction
• Research and development

Progression

Further Studies

Agri-Biosciences is an excellent platform for further education in terms of short add-on courses or structured postgraduate degrees such as Master of Science and PhD programmes. Graduates will also have obtained sufficient credits to teach Leaving Certificate Biology and Agricultural Science subjects at second level, pending the completion of an accredited postgraduate Professional Master of Education programme. Graduates also meet the degree eligibility criteria for applications to postgraduate veterinary medicine programmes.