The Biomedical, Health and Life Sciences (Hons) degree at University College Dublin (UCD) combines modern biology, biomedical research methods, and data-driven approaches to understand human health and disease. You’ll build practical laboratory skills and learn how scientific discoveries translate into prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Award: Bachelor’s degree with Honours (BSc Hons)
- Institution: University College Dublin (UCD), Ireland
- Academic focus: Biomedical science, health and life sciences, disease mechanisms, laboratory and data skills
- Delivery: On-campus (typical for UCD undergraduate programmes; confirm with UCD for your intake)
- Credits: Programme credit structure follows UCD undergraduate regulations (confirm exact ECTS/credit total for your intake)
- Language of instruction: English
- Application: Submit via UCD admissions for the relevant intake (confirm deadlines for your year)
- Intake: Typically September (confirm for your intake)
Programme Structure
Core learning areas include biomedical research methods, laboratory skills, and the study of disease processes across multiple organ systems.
- Biostatistics (data analysis and interpretation for biomedical research)
- Laboratory Skills (practical techniques and scientific method in biomedical settings)
- Mechanisms of disease (how biological processes contribute to health and illness)
- Neuroscience (nervous system function and disease)
- Cardiac/Vascular Biology (cardiovascular physiology and pathology)
- Renal Biology (kidney function and related disease processes)
- Pharmacology/Biochemistry (drug action, biochemical pathways, and therapeutic relevance)
- Endocrine, renal and reproductive pharmacology (hormonal and reproductive system pharmacology with clinical relevance)
- Bioinformatics, Genetics & Proteomics (genetic and protein-level approaches to understanding biology)
- Central nervous system diseases (disease-focused study of CNS disorders)
Note: Module availability and sequencing can vary by academic year and UCD regulations. Confirm the latest module list and any elective options with UCD for your intake.
Academic requirements
Entry is based on meeting UCD’s programme entry requirements for the relevant qualification route. For this programme, the record indicates the following subject and general entry conditions.
English requirements
IELTS
The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).
TOEFL iBT
TOEFL iBT® is accepted by more than 13,000 universities and other institutions in over 160 countries. The test can be taken at a test center or at home. The test measures your English-language abilities in an academic setting. The score refers to the total score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading), each subject has a range of 0 - 30.
PTE Academic
PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English) is a language test that enables students to demonstrate their writing, listening, speaking, and reading skills when applying to study in English. The score refers to a total score which ranges between 10 and 90.
OTE
The Oxford Test of English is a suite of 100% online, adaptive tests that assess your English language proficiency in Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. Endorsed by the University of Oxford and developed by Oxford University Press, the tests are available to book at Approved Test Centres worldwide throughout the year. You are given a score and CEFR level for each of the four modules, and for the overall test. Trust in the only suite of English proficiency tests certified by the University of Oxford. Scores range between 0-170.
Duolingo English Test
The Duolingo English Test is a convenient, fast, and affordable English proficiency test trusted by top universities around the world. Take it online in just one hour—anywhere, any time. Scores are reported out of 160 in 5 point increments.
Other requirements
General requirements
O6/H7 in English, Irish, Mathematics, a third language, a laboratory science subject and one other recognised subject.
General Entry Requirements (IB):
Subject Requirements (Mathematics):
- GCSE C / A Level E
- (or AS Level D)
- IB SL 4 / HL 3
Subject Requirements (Laboratory Science):
- GCSE C / A Level E
- (or AS Level D)
- IB SL 4 / HL 3
Post-study work options (Ireland)
After completing your degree in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the Irish government’s current eligibility rules.
- Typical eligibility: You must have successfully completed an eligible programme in Ireland and hold the correct immigration permission at the time of application.
- Duration: The permitted stay is granted for a limited period and may vary depending on the programme level and the rules in force at the time you apply.
- Work conditions: You may be able to work without needing a separate work permit for the duration of the permission, but you must follow the conditions attached to your permission.
- Application timing: Applications are usually made after graduation and within specified time limits—check the latest guidance before you apply.
Important: Immigration rules can change. Always verify the most up-to-date requirements with the Irish immigration authorities or your university’s international student office before planning your stay.