Industrial Microbiology and Biopharmaceuticals

The Certificate in Industrial Microbiology and Biopharmaceuticals is a specialised Level 8 programme designed for individuals seeking to build or enhance a career in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and biopharmaceutical sectors.

Delivered on a part-time basis, this programme provides a strong foundation in industrial microbiology, bioprocessing, and biochemistry, equipping learners with the knowledge and practical skills required to operate effectively in modern life science industries. 

With a strong focus on real-world application, the programme bridges the gap between scientific theory and industry practice—preparing learners to contribute confidently in regulated pharmaceutical environments.

In collaboration with the Government of Ireland through the Higher Education Authority (HEA), this course is available to 15 eligible learners with an 80% discount of the fees. The student contribution is €190 with €760 being contributed by the HEA. In order to qualify for a subsidised place you must meet the strict eligibility criteria detailed at: https://microcreds.ie/subsidy-eligibility.

Initial offers will be strictly conditional on you meeting the eligibility criteria, and you will be required to evidence your eligibility in the weeks prior to course commencement date. Failure to do so, or false declarations may result in your subsidised place being revoked which will make you liable for the full course fee. The Learner Fee Subsidy s a separate scheme to Springboard+, you must apply for micro-credentials approved for the learner fee subsidy here - HEA - Springboard+

It is important to note that if you are not eligible for a funded place, you can apply for a place on the course as a self financing student.

The programme will typically run over 12 weeks on one evening per week from 7pm to 10pm. It will be delivered online via our virtual learning environment, Blackboard. 

Why Choose This Programme?

• Industry-Relevant Skills
  Gain in-demand expertise aligned with the needs of the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries.
• Career-Focused Learning
  Develop the technical and regulatory knowledge needed to enter or progress within the life sciences sector.
• Practical Experience
  Includes laboratory training and exposure to industrial processes, helping you build job-ready skills.

• Flexible Study
  Designed for part-time learners, making it ideal for those working or returning to education.

   

What You Will Learn

This programme provides comprehensive coverage of key industry topics, including:

Industrial Bioprocessing

• Upstream and downstream processing
• Fermentation systems and scale-up
• Sterilisation, contamination control, and process optimisation

Industrial Microbiology

• Production of antibiotics, enzymes, and bio-based products
• Microbial processes used in food, healthcare, and manufacturing
• Strain development and culture management

Pharmaceutical Microbiology

• Clean-room technology and aseptic processing
• Sterility testing and quality assurance
• Microbial contamination control and GMP compliance

Biopharmaceutical Science

• Cell culture techniques and vaccine production
• Biologic drug development
• Recombinant DNA technologies and advanced therapies

These core topics ensure learners gain a broad yet industry-specific understanding of how microbiology underpins pharmaceutical production. 
 

Delivery

This programme will be delivered online.