Cell & Molecular Biology  (CMS1)

This programme is aimed at students who wish to equip themselves with a fundamental knowledge of Cell and Molecular Biology and how molecular processes contribute to our understanding of whole organisms, particularly in the context of health and disease. Graduates from the Cell and Molecular Biology programme will have the knowledge and skills to pursue further education (MSc and PhD) and/or careers in bio-pharmaceutical and health-related industries, including laboratories in hospitals and universities, diagnostics, forensics, education, science communication, and administration. We provide a friendly learning environment with state-of-the-art facilities that encourage students to be active, motivated, and autonomous learners. Key elements in the programme’s design include lectures, laboratory classes, tutorials and small group discussions that explore contemporary and emerging themes in cell biology. The programme is delivered by internationally recognised experts in their respective fields, and informed by their research. In order to gain advanced experimental skills in cell and molecular biology, students engage in a 12-week research project in their final year. Additionally, students are encouraged to gain further experience through internships or research placements in Irish and international research institutes.

1 - An understanding of the cellular and molecular processes underpinning the structure and function of cells
2 - A core understanding of how cells contribute to whole organism function, with particular relevance to health and disease
3 - Hands-on experience of the technical approaches used in Cell and Molecular Biology experiments
4 - Fundamental knowledge of the principles and practice of biological imaging and its importance in understanding cellular function
5 - The ability to collect, organise, and interpret datasets generated in Cell and Molecular Biology experiments
6 - An understanding of the role of different sources of information (textbooks, primary literature, reviews, seminars, and internet-based sources) in informing the study of Cell and Molecular Biology
7 - The maturity to critically appraise the scientific literature in a largely autonomous manner
8 - Skills for communicating concepts in Cell and Molecular Biology to specialist and non-specialist audiences in a clear and unambiguous way
9 - Skills in decision making, time management, and teamwork
10 - Appreciation of the discipline of Cell and Molecular Biology in the wider life sciences

Students’ performance will be reviewed at the end of the academic year. Students who fail 50% or more of their registered modules, and who fail to progress to the next stage of their programme, will be identified under the UCD Continuation – Academic progress policy. Students’ performance will continue to be reviewed in subsequent trimesters and students will be invited to meetings with the College of Science office for support and guidance.

Where the rate of progression and performance over two academic years is deemed unacceptable, a case will be submitted to the Governing Board for review. A recommendation for discontinuation may be the outcome of this review.

As Stages 3 and 4 have the most dynamic components of the programme, and the material studied previously may no longer be relevant, a student who has been away from the programme for a significant period should be required to register again to Stage 3. The upper limit for completion of Stages 3 and 4 should be six years if they choose to do 120 credits with 20 in each year.

UCD is Ireland’s Global University and its largest university with a track record in empowering students to enter a diverse range of careers that reflects the most diverse curriculum on the Island of Ireland. Consistently, over 90% of graduates are employed or in further study or training 9 months following course completion. The QS World Ranking on Graduate Employability has placed UCD at number 1 in Ireland for Graduate Employability since 2018. On the global stage UCD leads the Irish higher education sector and is the only Irish university to be ranked inside the world’s top 80 for Graduate Employability.

At University College Dublin we are aware that for many students, programme outcomes in terms of graduate jobs and career options is important. The purpose of this statement is to help you understand and appreciate the range of skills you may develop during your time at UCD and how you may develop your employability. Visit the UCD Careers Networks website and MyCareer, the UCD Career management Platform, to access career information, internships and graduate roles as well as information about the range of initiatives, supports and events available to you.

Graduates of the Medicinal Chemistry & Chemical Biology degree will be equipped with the skills to pursue a career in:

• Pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals
• Food technology companies
• Cosmetic technology companies
• Fine chemical and chemical development
• Patenting

Graduates can also pursue a PhD in Ireland or abroad in areas such as chemistry, chemical biology, or medicinal chemistry.

Stage 3

- Students take 7 core modules and at least 3 options. Students may choose 10 credits from Elective modules or alternatively, choose additional option modules to complete Stage 3. Alternatively, 10 credits may be selected from elective modules. If you are interested in doing an Internship as part of Stage 4, you must indicate your interest now (in Stage 3). See full details www.ucd.ie/science /careers/internships/students/

Stage 4

Students must take 60 credits from within the BSc programme.

See the UCD Assessment website for further details, including worked examples of how degree award GPAs are calculated

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