Qualification : BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREE
Award Type and NFQ level : UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)
CAO/MU Apply code : MH208
CAO Points : 470
Closing Date : 01 July 2025
Degree Overview
>This is the study of life, from the fundamental building blocks of our genes to the largest animals that inhabit our planet; how living things work - how they interact with one another and their surroundings, and how they change and evolve; and it involves the application of biomedical science to clinical research.
>Students learn how to use analytical and technical procedures to monitor and improve human health and to investigate disease and study the science that is broadly similar to the pre-clinical component of a medical degree.
>Students also learn how to ask questions, make observations, and analyse evidence - in theory work and through practical laboratory sessions - and to present and communicate findings clearly while developing computer literacy and research skills.
>There is a transfer pathway from 1st year MH201 Science to 2nd year MH208 Biological & Biomedical Sciences for students who have taken Biology, Mathematics and another two subjects. More details about potential MH201 transfer opportunities.
>The main strengths of the Department include Biological Control, Bioinformatics, Immunology, Medical Mycology, Molecular Genetics and Plant Biotechnology and staff have international reputations and expertise in these areas.
>Students enjoy the opportunity to study a Bachelor of Arts subject in first year such as Economics, Spanish or Anthropology. Alternatively, students can choose a Bachelor of Science subject.
Duration: 4 years
1st year
- 30 credits of Biology in 1st year
- 15 credits Mathematics
- 15 credits of one other Science or Arts subject: available Science subjects are Chemistry, Computer Science or Experimental Physics. Compatible Arts subjects: Anthropology, Business (International), Business (Management), Business (Marketing), Economics or Spanish
2nd year
- Concentrate on Biology and Biological Science, along with Mathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science or Experimental Physics (if taken in 1st year). Mathematics is taken if you chose an Arts subject.
- Optional 10 credit Critical Skills or Elective available in 2nd year
3rd year
- Choose from a range of Biological and Biomedical Science topics depending on your preferences
4th year
- Choose from a range of Biological and Biomedical Science topics depending on your preferences
Head of Department
Department of Biology
Department of Human Health Institute
Department of Faculty of Science & Engineering
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Department of Biology
Department of Human Health Institute
Department of Faculty of Science & Engineering
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| Subject | Required | Ordinary Level Grade | Higher Level Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Irish | Yes | O6 | H7 |
| English | Yes | O6 | H7 |
| Language | No | N/A | N/A |
| Math | Yes | O4 | H7 |
| Science | Yes | O6 | H7 |
International & EU/EFTA Entry Requirements
Mature Students
Mature Applicants
Mature applicants are assessed separately to school-leavers. Mature applicants are 23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University. For part-time/flexible degrees the mature age is 21.
Mature applicants who have a disability
If you have a disability or specific learning difficulty (e.g. dyslexia), and require examination support for any required written exercise/interview which may form part of your application assessment please submit supporting documentation by 15 March 2025 to the Access Office. Unfortunately we are unable to consider applications for alternative examination accommodation after this deadline.
01 February 2025
Additional Information
Leaving Certificate Applicants
Required to present (as a minimum): 2H5 & 4O6/H7 and O6/H7 in Irish, English & Science subject (one of Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry) & O4/H7 in Mathematics. MH208 Round 1 Points 2024: 470
HEAR and DARE
DARE: The Disability Access Route to Education is a third level alternative admissions scheme for school-leavers whose disabilities have had a negative impact on their second level education.
HEAR: The Higher Education Access Route is a third level admissions scheme for school leavers from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Contact the Access Office for more information about these access routes.
The Maynooth Education
Click here for details about optional Critical Skills courses, Electives and degree pathways.
APPLY TO THE CAO - WWW.CAO.IE
The application process depends on the type of applicant you are. Click here for all information about how to apply.
Categories of applicant:
- School-leavers (Leaving Certificate students)
- Mature students (23 years or older by 1st January in the year of entry to the University/part-time degrees the mature age is 21)
- EU/EFTA/UK students
- International students (outside the EU)
- QQI (Further Education) students
- Transferring students
- Deferring students