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Why Study Science at SETU Waterford?

Studying science at SETU Waterford will broaden your understanding of the world around you and give you the skills needed to approach matters in a reasoned and analytical manner.

All of our programmes offer hands on practical experience and are highly regarded. The programmes were designed to meet the needs of industry in the region, nationally and internationally.

What is the BSc in Science (General)?

The BSc in Science was designed as a common entry course for the student who has a keen interest in science, but is unsure of which area they would like to specialise in. This course gives the student a flavour of a variety of different scientific disciplines, allowing them to keep their options open when applying to study science at third level.

The modules of this course offer an introduction to biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and computing. Elective modules are also offered in specialised areas such as Food Science with Business, Pharmaceutical Science, and Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science. The student can get a taste of what is involved in each of these areas, before making a more informed choice as to which area they would like to specialise in for their degree.

Innovative teaching

This programme recently won the ‘Most impactful use of Pearson courseware or services’ award in recognition of the blended learning approach in the delivery of the programmes. The common science programmes use an integrated on-line tutorial system that is delivered to small groups in an IT room supported by one or two members of staff. These weekly formative tutorials allow students to apply or practice the material covered in class that week and student receives individual attention and help at tutorials.

 

Science (General Entry) Degree Options:

Upon completion of Year 1 of the BSc in Science, students have the choice of progressing into the second year of any of the following degree courses that run in the Department of Science at SETU Waterford:

Year 1

Semester 1 Semester 2
Introductory Biology Cell Biology & Biochemistry
Introductory Chemistry Physical and Organic Chemistry
Introductory Physics Physics for Scientists
Introductory Mathematics Mathematics for Scientists
Introduction to ICT for Scientists Choose two of the following electives:
Good Laboratory Practice & Core Skills *Introduction to Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Science
*Science & Society
*Introduction to Food Science
*Plant Biology

Leaving Cert: Minimum entry requirements for BSc in Science (General)

5 subjects: O6/H7
English or Irish: O6/H7
Mathematics: O6/H7

Advanced and Equivalent Entry for BSc in Science (General):

Recommendation: 

Applicants should note that a science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Physics with Chemistry or Agricultural Science) at Leaving Certificate is recommended for this programme.

Students who complete this level 7 degree programme can choose either to graduate after three years or progress on to a related level 8 degree.

Information on how to progress is on our advanced entry page.

Career Opportunities:

Career opportunities will be subject to your choice of specialist exit pathways. BSc in Science (General) is the gateway for the following Level 7 BSc degrees in SETU Waterford: Food Science with Business, Pharmaceutical Science and Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science. At the end of first year you will be asked to select one of the courses to study in order to obtain your final award. For more information on career opportunities visit the following courses:

Follow on Study:

After successful completion of the level 7 programme you will be eligible to transfer into year 4 of the corresponding Level 8 programmes:

Postgraduate study

Opportunities for postgraduate study are available at SETU and other institutions. 

Career Opportunities:

Career opportunities will be subject to your choice of specialist exit pathways. BSc in Science (General) is the gateway for the following Level 7 BSc degrees in SETU Waterford: BSc in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science, BSc Pharmaceutical Science and BSc in Food Science. At the end of first year, you will be asked to select one of the courses to study in order to obtain your final award. For more information on career opportunities visit the following courses:

SE514 - BSc in Molecular Biology with Biopharmaceutical Science

SE511 - BSc in Pharmaceutical Science

SE510 - BSc in Food Science

Completion of a level 8 programme will also enable students to undertake taught Masters programmes or Masters degrees by Research at SETU Waterford or other third-level Colleges.