Science requires a fundamental understanding of the key areas of biology and chemistry and the LM123 Biological and Chemical Sciences at the University of Limerick offers prospective students an opportunity to develop a core competency in both scientific areas in their first year at University. Entrants joining UL through the LM123 Biological and Chemical Sciences programme will subsequently have an opportunity to advance their studies in one of four specialised degree programmes, (normally 1st year in LM123 and subsequently years 2-4 in one of the programmes below), B.Sc. in Industrial Biochemistry B.Sc. in Environmental Science B.Sc. in Pharmaceutical and Industrial Chemistry B.Sc. in Bioscience Having selected LM123 Biological and Chemical Sciences you will be requested to rank the degree programmes in order of your preference during Semester 2. In the event that a programme is over- subscribed, places will be allocated based on UL exam performance. The B.Sc in Industrial Biochemistry focuses upon the study of living cells (or components of living cells) and the medical/industrial applications of such substances. It is designed to prepare you for a career in biotechnology and allied industries, and has a very strong employment record. The B.Sc. in Environmental Sciencewill provide you with a strong scientific understanding of environmental issues at local, national and global level and will give you a full knowledge of technological and management methods available to help improve the quality of our environment. In the B.Sc. in Pharmaceutical and Industrial Chemistry fundamental and applied aspects of organic, inorganic, physical, analytical chemistry and materials chemistry are covered as well as key chemical engineering topics. This degree programme qualifies you for employment in a variety of professional careers in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. The course is accredited by the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland and the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) with graduates eligible for RSC Chartered Chemist status. With the B.Sc in Bioscience degree the emphasis is on cell biology and molecular medicine. Ireland is one of the leading international locations for the Life Science industry, which spans biopharmaceuticals, diagnostics, medical devices and biotechnology. Biosciences is extremely important to Ireland’s economy and its future growth. The degree would provide an excellent foundation for students considering application to graduate entry medical school or to a post-graduate career in Bioscience/Life Sciences area. Underpinning the LM123 Biological and Chemical Sciences programme are two very important student facilities. The first is access to the Science & Maths Learning Support Centres which offers all students an opportunity to further enhance their scientific and mathematical knowledge in the core scientific areas. Secondly, in all of the subsequent degree options outlined above, industrial work experience over an eight month period is provided through a relevant work placement as part of the Cooperative Education programme. There are many benefits to this programme for the student including the opportunity to apply academic knowledge to the work environment as well as developing many important skills including teamwork, problem- solving and communication skills. It also provides the student with very valuable work experience which increases their future graduate employment prospects. Students entering the programme will undertake specific modules in the areas of chemistry, biology, maths and physics. As the subsequent degree programme choices focus heavily on biology or chemistry (or a combination of both), the biology and chemistry subjects taken in LM123 are designed to facilitate students in developing a fundamental competency in these areas. In conjunction with these core scientific modules, there will also be an interesting set of modules designed to give students a clear understanding of the key areas and content of the subsequent degree programme options of industrial biochemistry, pharmaceutical & industrial chemistry, biosciences and environmental science.

The career opportunities will depend primarily on the BSc course chosen by you, typical careers are: B.Sc in Industrial Biochemistry Biochemist, Teacher, Quality Assurance Manager, Scientific Researcher, Patent Agent B.Sc. in Environmental Science Environmental Officer, Environmental Laboratory Scientist, Environmental Consultant, Environmental Auditor, Water Conservation Officer, Water Quality Scientist B.Sc. in Pharmaceutical and Industrial Chemistry Chemist, Industrial Chemist, Environmental Chemist, Chemical Process Engineering, Quality Assurance Manager. B.Sc in Bioscience Graduates of the programme will be well positioned to gain employment in Ireland’s rapidly growing high tech Life Science industry.