The BSc (Hons) in Applied Plant Biology at University College Cork focuses on how plants function and how biological knowledge can be applied to real-world challenges in agriculture, the environment, and biotechnology. You’ll develop practical and analytical skills through lab-based learning and field-relevant study.
Career-focused learning supports pathways into plant science, crop and environmental research, and industry roles in areas such as food, pharma, and agricultural support.
Duration: 4 years (Honours)
Credits: Typically 240 ECTS (check final programme regulations)
Delivery: On-campus (UCC)
Language of instruction: English
Tuition fees: Vary by fee status and year—confirm with UCC for the most up-to-date figures
Application: Submit via UCC/central application routes as applicable
Intake: Typically September (confirm for your entry year)
Assessment: Combination of coursework, practical/lab work, and examinations (as specified in programme regulations)
Programme Structure
The Applied Plant Biology (Hons) degree is structured to build scientific foundations in early stages and progressively develop applied plant-focused knowledge, practical skills, and research capability.
Indicative course areas
- Ecology
- Ecological Fieldwork and Analysis
- Plant and Animal Genetics
- The Evolving Earth
- Microbiology
Learning progression
- Core biological and environmental sciences to support plant study
- Applied modules that connect plant biology to real-world contexts (e.g., plant health, ecosystems, and applied research themes)
- Practical and data-focused learning to strengthen laboratory and analytical competence
Capstone / final-year work
Final-year requirements may include a research project or equivalent honours assessment component. Please refer to the official UCC programme regulations for the exact module titles and assessment format.
Check the full curriculum on the programme website for the most up-to-date module list and year-by-year structure.
Academic requirements
Entry is based on meeting the academic standard required by University College Cork for undergraduate study. Specific subject requirements may apply depending on your educational background and the year of entry.
For non-EU applicants, qualifications are expected to be of a standard equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate.
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.
Note: English test requirements can vary by applicant profile and entry year. Confirm the latest minimum scores with UCC before applying.
Other requirements
General requirements
- Non-EU applicants are expected to hold educational qualifications equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate standard.
- If you are a non-native speaker of English, you must demonstrate English language proficiency to the university’s requirements.
- Applicants should submit all required documents by the stated deadlines and follow UCC application instructions for their qualification type.
Post-study work options (Ireland)
Check for any work restrictions
After completing your degree in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the relevant Irish immigration requirements at the time of application.
- Eligibility: Typically applies to graduates who have completed an eligible programme in Ireland and hold the appropriate immigration permission during their studies.
- Duration: The permitted stay period depends on the programme level and the rules in force when you apply. You should check the latest guidance from the Irish immigration authorities.
- Conditions: You may need to apply within a specified timeframe after graduation and provide evidence of programme completion.
- Work restrictions: Some permissions allow employment without a separate work permit, while others may require compliance with specific conditions (e.g., employer eligibility or reporting requirements). Always confirm the exact terms for your case.
Important: Immigration rules can change. For the most accurate information for University College Cork graduates, review the latest guidance on the official Irish immigration website and the university’s international student pages.
