Applied Science (Laboratory Techniques)
Course Description
Ireland’s pharmaceutical industry produces a wide range of products and services, from research and development of new medicines to the manufacturing and marketing of these. Personnel with scientific knowledge and laboratory analytical skills are essential for this area.
Ireland is home to a large number of pharmaceutical companies, many of which are located locally within the Munster region. It is an exciting and rewarding sector to be involved in.
The main focus of this course will be to enhance your scientific knowledge and laboratory skills in a range of applied science fields. This one-year full time course has assisted the majority of our past graduates in progressing to third level courses in Universities and IT’s. It is also suitable for individuals who wish to enhance their chances of employment in the pharmaceutical industry.
QQi Level 5
Laboratory Techniques: 5M3807
Food Science: 5M5267
This is a full time one year course.
Leaving Certificate or equivalent, ideally a minimum of a pass in Mathematics at Ordinary Level Leaving Certificate.
For mature applicants experience will be considered in lieu of formal qualifications.
All applicants are interviewed, and places are awarded on suitability.
The following subjects may be offered:
-
Biology
5N2746
Designed to develop an understanding of biology and an ability to perform practical tasks in biology. -
Food Chemistry
5N2748
Designed to develop an understanding of basic and analytical chemistry and the fundamentals of food chemistry. -
Chemistry
5N2747
Designed to develop an understanding of the industrial and practical applications of chemistry. -
Food Processing
5N5245
Describes the processes used in the food industry to produce selected food products and explains the scientific principles underpinning these processes. -
Laboratory Skills
5N2751
Outlines basic laboratory techniques and safety measures important in an analytical laboratory. -
Mathematics
5N1833
Applies a broad range of mathematical skills and tools to a wide variety of contexts, with theoretical understanding. -
Microbiology
5N0737
Outlines the fundamentals of microbiology and basic microbiological skills used in a laboratory setting. -
Nutrition
5N2006
The study of the nutritional composition of food and the effects of food and nutrition on an individual’s health and personal well being. -
Communications
5N0690
Equips students for presentations, report writing and interviews. -
Work Experience
5N1356
The purpose of this subject is to equip the learner with the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to participate in the workplace for a limited time, carrying out work-related tasks independently while under general direction.
The pharmaceutical industry is one of Ireland’s largest employers and have a large potential for employment. Job opportunities for students who complete this course include: Laboratory assistants, Operators pharmaceutical industries.
For full details on progression opportunities see these links:
Cork Colleges Progression Scheme
QQI Requirements
Students who study and complete this course are eligible to apply for many courses in the Science field within Irish Third Level Institutes. As this course is part of the “Links Scheme” for entry into third level colleges, students gain entry to these linked courses based on their QQI results rather than their Leaving Certificate results.
Students who wish to use the links to further studies will need to achieve a certain level in their QQI award.
Some examples of these linked courses include:
UCC:
- Biological and Chemical Sciences (CK402)
- Nutritional Science (CK504)
- Chemical Sciences (CK406)
MTU:
- Nutrition and Health Science (CR333)
- Applied Biosciences (CR006)
- Analytical and Pharmaceutical Chemistry (CR007)
- Science Course (CR300)
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (CR325)
- Analytical Chemistry with QA (CR340)
- Home Economics and Business Teaching - MT930 (First 3 years in MTU and final 2 in UCC)
Kyle Cullinane
"Studying Applied Sciences - Laboratory Techniques was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I gained a better understanding of the topics I studied in Leaving Cert. and learned new topics which I found very interesting. I made new friends that helped me and tested my knowledge. These friends will continue to help me throughout my studies.
The lecturers were extremely kind and were always available to help if needed. I am now studying Biological and Chemical sciences in UCC which I couldn’t have done without the staff of CSN.
The extra year between secondary school and University was very important to me. I became more confident in myself and this year also reinforced the idea of what I want to do after college.
I would highly recommend CSN . It was a great year and I will never forget it."
Oran O'Mahony
Is off to study Science Education in UL after completing the Applied Biology course at Tramore Road Campus. This course was 541 points this year so remember if you didn't get the course you hoped for in the CAO offers, there is an alternative route through FE QQI courses. Oran on his time in the college - “Thanks to all the staff and students for providing a perfect environment to learn in and grow as a person”.
Applied Science
Microscope
Lab Techniques