Bachelor/Master of Science in Immersive Bioscience and Biotherapeutics Course content
Key information
Unlike typical university semesters where students study multiple different modules at once, each semester at iBio will have you learning in immersive teaching blocks.
First-year blocks provide a strong foundation in biological sciences, data and bioanalytics. You will learn to master the areas of cell biology, molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry through team-based workshops and lab-based practice.
As you progress through the course, you will study cutting-edge topics in data analytics, drug discovery, protein chemistry, and translational medicine. Each block combines theory, practice, digital literacy, innovation, and professional skills to ensure you are prepared to apply your knowledge to real-world industry scenarios during your semesters on Residency placements.
Here is what the iBio curriculum looks like at a glance:
Semester 1
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY4211 | Bioscience Basics 1 |
Semester 2
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY4212 | Bioscience Basics 2 |
Semester 3 (summer)
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY4213 | Residency 1 |
Semester 4
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY4221 | Bioanalytics |
| BY4231 | Drug Discovery |
Semester 5
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY4222 | Residency 2 |
Semester 6 (summer)
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY4223 | Protein Chemistry and Biologics |
| EP4223 | Innovation and Entrepreneurship |
Semester 7
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY4241 | Residency 3.1 |
Semester 8
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY4252 | Residency 3.2 |
Semester 9 (summer)
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY6013 | Residency 3.3 |
Semester 10
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY6021 | Advanced Biotherapeutics |
Semester 11
| Module code | Module title |
|---|---|
| BY6022 | Research Project |
FAQs
Is iBio a BSc or MSc degree?
iBio is a four-year integrated BSc/ MSc course. It is designed so that you graduate after three years with a Master of Science degree, but you can opt to leave after three years with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree.
How many points will I need in the CAO?
The entry requirements for our 2026 intake have not yet been released; however, our intake process will involve an entry submission consisting of the points acquired in the Leaving Certificate (625) combined with the points obtained from our Entry Portfolio (200).
What are residencies? How much time will I spend on residencies compared to on campus?
Residencies are paid internships in Biotech industries where you will be mentored by one of our partner companies. During your residencies, you will learn the same way that medical doctors do. You will be embedded in the team of your host company, contributing to day-to-day activities, undertaking projects, and gaining essential skills and experience. You will learn from experts in the field, making strong industry connections.
Throughout your time at iBio, you will go on three residencies in the Biotech industries. Two of these are semester-long residencies (3 months), and your final residency will be a year-long placement (12 months)
What companies can I do residency placements with?
We have partnered with companies such as with large biopharma and high-potential biotech start-ups to ensure you receive the highest quality experience. You will have the opportunity to do three placements with up to three different companies.
Are residency placements paid?
Yes, all of our residencies are fully paid.
Is it possible to transfer into iBio from a different course if I already started my degree by the time iBio starts intaking students?
Unfortunately, this is not a possibility. You must begin in Year 1, with an application through the CAO.
Is it possible to enrol as a part-time student?
There is no part-time option for iBio. The course is designed to be intensive in order to create a fully immersive learning environment and achieve a fast-tracked graduation.
How do you get the degree so quickly?
We achieve a fast-tracked graduation by learning during summer semesters so that you spend more time learning each year. Most university students spend 24 weeks learning. As an iBio student, you will spend 40 weeks each year learning on campus or on residency placements.
I have a different question.
We are happy to answer any further questions! Please submit your question to ibio@ul.ie
