Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) Technology and Manufacturing

Postgraduate Diploma in Science

Course Details

Course Code	SG_SATMP_O09
Level	9
Duration	2 years
Credits	60
Method of Delivery	Online
Campus Locations	Sligo
Mode of Delivery	Part Time

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Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) Technology and Manufacturing

Apply Now How to Apply

Course Overview

This programme is run in conjunction with NIBRT (National Institute for Biopharmaceutical Research and Training), with many of the lecturers and guest lecturers from NIBRT. At the start of 2022, IDA Ireland confirmed a €21 million capital investment in NIBRT to enable the construction, equipping and staffing of a 1,800m2 extension which will focus on research and training in the manufacture of advanced therapies. Construction of this NIBRT Advanced Therapies building extension is underway and is scheduled to open in 2023.

NIBRT established the Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) Forum in 2018, which comprises stakeholders from across industry, academic researchers and government agencies, with the aim of making Ireland a global leader for the development, manufacture, supply and adoption of advanced therapies and novel vaccines (NIBRT Annual Report, 2022).

The programmes seek to enhance graduate employability by building in elements of case studies, group work, simulated problem solving, examples in context, and use of guest lecturers where feasible and appropriate. Modules such as Biocontamination, Cell Processing and Research methods enhance employability, as they are very transferable across sectors and do not limit students to specific roles. Key learning opportunities for students will be to apply their knowledge gained through the course to real workplace problems in real time, thus enhancing their skills and employability.

This new Pg Cert in ATMP Technology and Manufacturing aims to provide scientists and engineers with a comprehensive grounding in critical aspects of ATMP cell therapy and vector manufacturing and quality control / quality affairs. The programme will allow participants to develop the competencies and key skills to be employed in technical, quality and manufacturing roles within the growing ATMP industry. By participating in the programme, students will develop an understanding of the facts, concepts, principles, theories and methods associated with cell therapy and vector manufacturing in the context of the ATMP industry.

Recommended Study Hours per week

Students will attend 3 online lectures per week and make additional time for independent learning. Usually this is around 5 hours per module.

Examination and Assessment

This programme is assessed through a combined approach of continuous assessment including project work, presentations and case studies.

On-Campus Attendance Requirement

No on-campus attendance required.
Note: Check programme Examination and Assessment requirements, as they may involve examinations to be taken on campus.

Progression

The Postgraduate Certificate in ATMP Technology and Manufacturing can be taken as a standalone but is also embedded in the Master of Science in ATMP Technology and Manufacturing. The programme will be delivered in conjunction with NIBRT. Research Postgraduate opportunities at ATU are offered at Level 10 (PhD).

Download a prospectus

Postgraduate Prospectus Online, Flexible & Professional Development Prospectus

Entry Requirements

The programme is open to students who have completed a minimum of a 2.2 Honours Level 8 degree in a Science or Engineering subject related to the life sciences. Other candidates with alternative honours degrees and experience in the ATMP industry may apply for consideration (typically 5 years duration in a GMP environment). The entry requirements will encompass recognition of prior accredited learning in other third level institutions, in accordance with ATU procedures.

RPL is a process that may allow you to gain admission to a programme or to receive exemptions / credit from some parts of a programme based on demonstrated learning that you may have achieved through another programme of study or through your work and career. Further information is available through our dedicated RPL portal www.atu.ie/rpl or by contacting our admissions team at admissions.sligo@atu.ie

English requirement
Applicants whose first language is not English should provide evidence of English language proficiency. For further information on English language requirements click here

Fees

Total Fees EU: €9996

Further information on fees

Careers

The programme was conceived in response to consultation with NIBRT on the expansion of the ATMP sector in Ireland, and the need for structured educational offerings aimed to upskill / cross skill staff in existing biopharmaceutical science jobs. The course content was developed closely with NIBRT and in response to industry input and feedback.

This programme is aimed at manufacturing, quality, engineering and regulatory personnel who are looking to increase their understanding and application of ATMP technologies. It will provide a postgraduate qualification in the area of ATMP manufacturing that will form both an introduction for new or proposed entrants to the area and additional skills and knowledge to those working in the area. This course will give them the opportunity to move upwards to leadership roles.