Atlantic Technological University

Biopharmaceutical Processing is a postgraduate programme jointly delivered by Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Sligo and NIBRT, focused on how biopharmaceutical products are manufactured—from upstream cell culture to downstream purification and regulatory-ready processing.

Learn practical, industry-relevant skills used in modern biopharma facilities, including scale-up, technology transfer, and quality/regulatory considerations for medicines made using biological systems.

• Level: Postgraduate (Honours Level 8 entry)
• Delivery: Programme delivery details to be confirmed by ATU/NIBRT (check programme website for the latest schedule)
• Focus areas: Upstream bioprocessing, downstream purification, scale-up, technology transfer, and regulatory affairs
• Language of instruction: English
• Credits / duration: Please refer to the programme website for the most up-to-date duration and credit allocation
• Tuition fees: Fees vary by applicant category—confirm current fees on the programme website
• Application & intake: Check the programme website for application deadlines and start dates

Programme Structure

The programme is structured around core modules that reflect the end-to-end biopharmaceutical manufacturing workflow, from cell culture and fermentation through purification and process development, with an emphasis on practical application and GMP-aligned thinking.

• Fermentation and Cell Culture Process
• Upstream Bioprocessing (Practical)
• Protein Purification Processing
• Scale-Up and Technology Transfer
• Legislation and Regulatory Affairs
• Research Methods (Biopharma)

Curriculum outcomes: By the end of the programme, you should be able to describe key manufacturing steps, explain how processes are scaled and transferred, and apply regulatory and documentation concepts relevant to biopharmaceutical production.

Note: For the most accurate module sequencing, contact hours, and any capstone/thesis requirements (if applicable), please confirm details on the ATU/NIBRT programme website.

Admission requirements

Post-study work options (Ireland)

After completing your programme in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the Irish immigration requirements in force at the time of application.

• Eligibility: Typically, you must have successfully completed an eligible programme in Ireland and hold the appropriate immigration permission at the time of application.
• Duration: The length of permission depends on the level and type of your qualification and the rules applicable at the time you apply.
• Employment conditions: You may be required to take up employment that meets the relevant criteria (e.g., role and salary thresholds) and to comply with reporting/registration requirements.
• Application timing: You should apply within the permitted window after graduation, as specified by the Irish authorities.

Important: Immigration rules can change. For the most accurate guidance for your nationality and circumstances, check the latest information on the Irish immigration website or consult your programme’s international student support office.