BSc in Applied Biology
Course code: WD176
What is Applied Biology?
Applied Biology is the understanding of how organisms work from subcellular to whole organism level. It also involves the use of living organisms (mostly microbes) to produce useful products. It includes traditional processes like brewing, cheesemaking and modern developments such as genetic engineering which can lead to new drugs against cancer and other diseases.
What is the BSc in Applied Biology course?
This is a three year full time course. It is designed to provide students with the scientific skills, theoretical and modern practical skills to work in areas such as biopharmaceutical, food and environmental sectors.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are qualified to work in a variety of positions in laboratories such as:
- Microbiology
- Food
- Pharmaceutical
- Environmental analysis
- Quality assurance
Genzyme, Microchem, Ivax/Teva, Dawn Meats and Glanbia among other industries have employed graduates of this course.
Follow on Study
- BSc (Hons) in Biology with Quality Management
- Follwing the level 8 course, postgraduate studies to Masters or Doctorate (PhD) level
Course Outline
| Year 1 | |
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
| Introductory Biology Introductory Chemistry Introductory Physics Introductory Mathematics Good Laboratory Practice & Core Skills Introduction to ICT for scientists |
Physical & Organic Chemistry Cell Biology & Biochemistry Physics For Scientists Mathematics For Scientists Electives (choose 2): - Introduction to Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Science - Plant Biology - Science & Society - Introduction to Food Science |
| Year 2 | |
| Semester 3 |
Semester 4 |
| Microbiology 1 Spectroscopic Techniques Organic Chemistry & Biomolecules Statistics for Scientists Laboratory Data Analysis & Presentation Topics in Biotechnology |
Microbial Biotechnology & Molecular Genetics Chromatographic Techniques Biochemistry Food Microbiology Applied Maths for Scientists Environmental Science |
| Year 3 | |
| Semester 5 |
Semester 6 |
| Chromatographic Method Development & Validation Introduction to Research Methods Pharmaceutical Biotechnology Molecular Biology Total Quality Management Electives (Choose 1): - Manufacturing Production & Processing - Microbiology 2 |
Protein Chemistry & Enzymology Laboratory Data Modelling Microbial Ecology & Bioremediation Applied Immunology Sensors & Electroanalysis Laboratory Project |
Course Facts
Course Title: BSc in Applied Biology
Course Code: WD176
Course Level: 7
Duration: 3 Years
Course Entry
Leaving Certificate:
- Total number of different subjects at grade D or better: 5
Required Subjects:
- English/Irish: OD3/HD3
- Mathematics: OD3/HD3
For further information
Course Leader: Dr Orla O’Donovan
Email: oodonovan@wit.ie
Recent Entry Points
| Year | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 |
| Minimum Points | 205 | 220 | 270 |
But don't just take our word...
“The science courses at WIT are excellent in their balance between up-to-date theoretical knowledge and practical skills making graduates highly sought after by leading companies. I know the staff and community structure in WIT provides students with the tools and the stimulating, supportive learning environment they require to achieve their educational ambitions”.
Richard Walsh, BSc in Biotechnology

