MSc Biomedical Science (via Distance Learning)

Course Type:  
2 years part-time via Distance Learning
Places Available: 20
Closing date:    Open until places filled
Commences:   Next starting date is Friday August 24th 2012
      
This modular programme provides flexible training tailored to industry needs.   
 
Programme description
The objective of this programme is to introduce students to an interdisciplinary approach to research, which ulitises technologies and skills from a wide spectrum of scientific, engineering, and clinical disciplines to address fundamental  questions originating in biology and medicine. The programme is intended to introduce students to science and engineering disciplines which they would not have covered in their undergraduate studies. Programme contributors include senior academics, industry experts, and scientists who are actively engaged in research in all areas of biomedical science.
 
 
Further Information can be found on our FAQ sheet, click here 

           
Visit the course blog at http://www.mscbiomedicalscience.blogspot.com/

Programme delivery
This MSc is run on a two-yearly cycle with next intake being August 2012. The twelve-module programme is delivered over two years, based on a blended learning format; a mixture o face-to-face contact (approximately nine hours per module) in addition to 12-18 hours per week of self-directed  study combined with e-tutorial on-line support. Students attend on-campus lectures/tutorials on a Friday afternoon and/ or Saturday, approximately once every five weeks. Echo360 lecture capture and Blackboard technologies are used to aid course management and learning. The final module of Year One consists of practical experimentation, when students obtain hands-on experience of a range of biomedical and engineering techniques. Students are required to attend 3-4 practical sessions during this module. Completion of a research project during the summer period of years 1 and 2 is also required. 
 
ECTS weighting
 
90 ECTS.
Career Opportunities
Current participants work in medical device and pharmaceutical companies including Boston Scientific, Abbott, Medtronic, Elan, Stryker, Allergen, Advanced Surgical Concepts, Pfizer, and Tyco Healthcare. Completion of this new distance-learning biomedical science programme will broaden career prospects of new graduates and those who have already joined the work force.
Testimonials from past participants
"I feel the course has enhanced my position in my company, as well as opening up other career opportunities. It is a course well-worth pursuing.? Dermot, Senior Process Development Engineer

"Returning to college full time was not an option due to work and family committments. This course covers a wide range of subjects that are of interest to me with an emphasis on recent findings, up to the minute research and practical applications." Patricia, Physicist, Portiuncula Hospital

"The programme has given me the chance to study a comprehensive post-graduate course that is relevant to my field of work, while at the same time remain in full-time employment and thereby gather valuable industrial experience." Damien, Manufacturing Engineer

"The masters in distance learning is ideal for anyone who wants to continue with their education without having the full time commitment of other courses that are 9-5, 5 days a week. The modules undertaken during the courses are varied and regardless of a physics or biology background the work is challenging without being too involved. The lab work is excellent-getting to work with new and exciting technolgies?the module notes are excellent and the tutors and lectures are brilliant. The best part is the range of research carried out at the NCBES and REMEDI. The course is excellent (at) providing engineers like myself with the biological know-how and highlights how the two disciplines are needed in today's medical devices." Sinead, Physicist, self-employed

"Since graduating in 2005 I had been wanting to do a Taught Master's in an area that appealed to me. This course piqued my interest because it ticked all the boxes.I would urge anyone considering attaining a postgraduate qualification who is reluctant to devote a year full-time to a course of study to seriously consider this Distance Learning course. The time has flown by and now I look forward to graduating with a Master's Degree from an NUI." Catherine, Geneticist, Pfizer

"The nature of the course (Distance learning format) afforded me the opportunity to continue to work part-time in a pharmaceutical company so that I was able to fund the fees and any incurred expenses. I have had no difficulty in assigning the time to study or to attend lectures. I have found the method of delivery of the course to be comprehensive and an extensive web-based support system has enabled me to keep in regular contact with my class-mates and lecturers. I would urge anyone considering attaining a postgraduate qualification who is reluctant to devote a year full-time to a course of study to seriously consider this Distance Learning course. The time has flown by and now I look forward to graduating with a Master's Degree from an NUI." Catherine, Geneticist, Pfizer

"A great course. Hard work, but fun. Well designed to meet the needs of the biomedical/medical device industry. It has added hugely to my understanding of the body, it's function and the requirements of medical devices and the materials which go into them. I feel that it has expanded my horizons hugely." Martin, Senior Quality Engineer, Endoscopy Process Development, Boston Scientific.
 
 
Click to listen to 2 audio clips from Marita Barry and Micheal Kelly, for more stories about why students have chosen this course. 
 
 
 
Admissions
This is a two-year cyclical programme, and will run again in the 2012-2013 academic year. Applications to this programme will be made then online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC).  Go to www.pac.ie and look for course code GYS19.  Please make sure you have all necessary documentation ready for uploading.  Alternatively, follow the links at the postgraduate admissions office (see below).

National University of Ireland, Galway,
University Road, Galway, Ireland.
Phone: +353 91 524411, Exts. 3065 / 2102 / 2103;
Fax: +353 91 495552