Microbiology is all about understanding how microorganisms affect our world in crucial ways, from improving healthcare to protecting the environment and driving new technologies. This course dives into how microbes are used to diagnose diseases, clean up pollution, and create bio-based solutions and biological products for industries. It focuses on three main areas: Diagnostic Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology, and Industrial Microbiology.
Course Structure
Years 1 and 2 provide students with a strong foundation in the biology and chemistry of microorganisms. Year 2 introduces a key practical based module Methods in Microbiology which allows students to complement their theory delivered in new modules in Parasitology and Mycology and Virology. In Year 3, students focus on Diagnostic Microbiology, Microbiology for Pharmaceutics, Quality Management and Data Analysis in semester 1 and complete a 6-month industry placement during semester 2.
Is this course for you?
If you're fascinated by microorganisms and their impact on health, the environment, and industry, and you want a course with extensive hands-on laboratory work, then our BSc (Ord) in Applied Microbiology is an excellent choice. After 3 years you can continue with the level 8 BSc Hons Applied Microbiology or take another Level 8 option in SETU. Information on how to progress is on our advanced entry page.
Special Features:
More than 50% of the course is dedicated to laboratory practical work, giving students essential microbiological skills.
Small group sizes for laboratory sessions ensure personalised learning and support.
A 6-month industry-based work placement in Year 3 provides valuable real-world experience.
Exit award after each year of the programme.
Year 1
Semester 1
Semester 2
Fundamental Biology
Animal and Human Biology
Chemistry 1
Chemistry 2
Laboratory Science
Quantitative Methods 2
Quantitative Methods 1
Physics 2
Physics 1
Current Concepts in Science
M is a mandatory subject - E is an elective subject
Year 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
Fundamentals of Microbiology 1
Methods in Microbiology
Molecular Biology 1
Fundamentals of Microbiology 2
Biochemistry Biomolecules
Molecular Biology 2
Instrumentation
Parasitology
Quantitative Methods and Quality Control 1
Mycology and Virology
M is a mandatory subject - E is an elective subject
Year 3
Semester 5
Semester 6
Diagnostic Microbiology
Work Placement
Microbial Cell Factory
Environmental Science
Microbiology for Pharmaceutics
Quality Management, Experimental Design and Data Analysis
M is a mandatory subject - E is an elective subject
What are the minimum entry requirements?
Leaving Certificate:
2H5 & 4O6/H7
Subjects required:
English or Irish at O6/H7
Mathematics at O6/H7
What follow-on study opportunities are available?
Graduates are eligible to progress to Year 4 of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Applied Microbiology, the BSc Hons Biosciences with Biopharmaceuticals, BSc Hons Pharmaceutics and Drug Formulation or BSc Hons Brewing and Distilling at SETU Carlow. There are also opportunities to progress to honours degree courses in other Irish or international higher education institutes.
What will I be able to do when I finish the course?
With a BSc Ord in Applied Microbiology, you'll be ready to contribute to challenges like manufacturing new diagnostics and biologics and improving environmental sustainability. Whether you choose further study or jump into careers in healthcare, biotech, or industry, this degree opens doors to exciting possibilities.
