Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Medical Science

Medical Science is the study of investigative laboratory procedures, techniques and instruments that are required for the diagnosis of clinical disease and the monitoring of therapy. In recent years there has been an increasing demand for medical laboratory diagnostic services and for the development of new services.

This CORU approved programme will provide students with a solid foundation in the basic sciences together with the skills and knowledge to practice medical laboratory science. Graduates are specifically qualified to work in modern hospital laboratories and are involved in the investigation and diagnosis of medical conditions and disease.

Medical Science Blog

Read real life stories from our students, and from medical scientists who are working in the field. Check out our blog here https://thelifeofamedicalscientist.wordpress.com

This programme is one of only three of its type in the Republic of Ireland that are CORU approved enabling graduates to practice as medical scientists in hospitals. 

This course is also validated by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) in the United Kingdom. Thus, successful completion of the academic programme and attainment of the IBMS ‘Certificate of Competence’ through completion of the IBMS registration training portfolio in an approved laboratory enables the student to apply for registration as a Biomedical Scientist by the Health Professions Council (HPC) and to then work as a Biomedical Scientist in the United Kingdom.

Graduates can also develop careers in medical research and in the pharmaceutical and biomedical sectors.

Postgraduate Studies

ATU Honours (Level 8) qualifications are recognised worldwide for postgraduate entry.

Graduates of the Level 8 Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Medical Science are eligible to apply for progression to the MSc in Medical Science (Level 9) 

Work Placement

In third year, students are required to complete 1000 hours of structured practice placement as student medical scientist. This work experience provides the student with an in-depth knowledge of hospital laboratory systems. During this placement the student is paid a non-means tested generous allowance by the Health Service Executive. Placement locations are geographically dispersed therefore, student may have to make alternative living arrangements when they are on placement depending on if they have transport or not. This is a CORU approved programme and is validated by the Institute of Biomedical Science (UK).

Garda Vetting

It is a requirement that all students for this programme are Garda vetted by ATU on commencement of their studies.

Health Screening

Students are expected to undergo a healthcare screening process on admission to the programme. Specific vaccinations may be required prior to practice placement.

Fitness to Practice

Programmes that require students to undertake practical training in a professional environment and that lead to a professional qualification/licence to practice may be subject to the Institute’s Fitness to Practise Policy. This Policy can be found HERE.

Materials Fee

Students will be liable for an additional materials fee of €100 per year for certain full time programmes. This fee is not covered by Granting Authorities. Material Fees are not applicable to either Erasmus, Part-Time or Full time Non-EU students.

Contact Us

Head of Department:

Dr. Eugene Mc Carthy

Phone: 091-742081

eMail: Dr Eugene Mc Carthy