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Microscopy & Imaging (MSc)

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Course Overview

The visualisation and interpretation of a sample under the microscope is a fundamental skill required for research today. This new exciting programme will provide graduates with a highly marketable and transferable combination of skills required for academic, industrial, public and private sectors. Based in the Centre for Microscopy and Imaging, a multidisciplinary collaborative team which are involved in many aspects of basic science and medical research will deliver the course. This MSc programme aims to up-skill participants with practical hands-on microscopy and imaging techniques, associated sample preparations skills and analysis. Currently, it is the only programme of its kind being offered by an Irish University.

In this multidisciplinary field where biology, physics, medicine, engineering and communication skills are brought together and are valued in many areas of employment and research including basic science, biomedical engineering and industry. This course aims to provide training for applied roles such as laboratory managers, technical staff positions, sales or product development, service laboratories of universities, or health-related institutes. It will also serve to assist with the progression of students to further education. Microscopy, related sample preparation skills, and analysis are now an essential component of the majority of biological science research projects and a necessity for high impact publications.

Most modules will have associated laboratory or practical components which will develop the students’ knowledge of cutting edge microscopy practises and techniques. Students will also learn translational skills which may be applied in the work force.

Applications and Selections

All applications are made through PAC (Postgraduate Applications Centre) and a copy of a birth certificate/passport, along with the English language competency certificate and above documentation must be submitted. 

Who Teaches this Course

This programme will be primarily based within the Centre for Microscopy and Imaging in the Discipline of Anatomy, School of Medicine. Due to the multidisciplinary focus of the programme, leading Scientists and Academics within the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, the College of Science, and the College of Engineering and Informatics all contribute to the teaching. 

Requirements and Assessment

Modules are assessed by examinations at the end of Semester One and Semester Two and/or by continuous assessment. A variety of different assessment strategies are used, including written examinations, laboratory practicals and mini-project reports, assignments, data-handling exercises, experimental reasoning, essays, posters, oral presentations and a research project thesis must also be submitted.

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

Candidates must hold at least an upper second class honours primary degree (NFQ Level 8 or international equivalent qualification) in relevant biological or biomedical sciences, physical sciences or engineering field. Graduates with a Level 7 degree and who can demonstrate that they have at least 2–3 years relevant experience in research or industry may also be considered. Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency as per university guidelines. A personal statement of approximately 500 words and a curriculum vitae (CV) must be supplied on application, along with academic transcripts. Candidates will be selected based on examination records, previous relevant experience, and personal statement. Candidates may be requested to deliver a short presentation on a topic provided by the selection committee and course coordinators. Short listed candidates may be invited for interview. 

Additional Requirements

Modules are assessed by examinations at the end of Semester One and Semester Two and/or by continuous assessment. A variety of different assessment strategies are used, including written examinations, laboratory practicals and mini-project reports, assignments, data-handling exercises, experimental reasoning, essays, posters, oral presentations and a research project thesis must also be submitted.
Duration

1 year full-time

Next start date

September 2018

A Level Grades ()

Average intake

15–20

Closing Date

Please refer to the review/closing date webpage.

Next start date

September 2018

NFQ level

Mode of study

ECTS weighting

Award

CAO

PAC code

GYM81

Course Outline

This is a one year full time course consisting of 90ECTs.

Semester 1—30ECTs—Core Modules (An Introduction to Imaging, Microscopy and Analysis, Current Topics in Imaging, Cells and Tissues) plus one of the following Optional Modules (Materials Science & Biomaterials, Radiation and Medical Physics, Biophotonics, Introduction to Biostatistics.)

Semester 2—30 ECTs—Core Modules (BioImaging and Microscopy, Image Analysis and Processing, Imaging in Translational Cancer Research) plus two of the following Optional Modules (Systems Histology, Advanced Cell Biology and Development, Stereology).

Semester 3—30 ECTs—Research Project 

Further Education

Participants may choose to progress to further education or research and undertake a PhD

Why Choose This Course?

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the programme may enter the workforce either in technical or research roles within hospitals, universities or industry in Ireland. In addition, participants may choose to progress to further education or research and undertake a PhD.

Who’s Suited to This Course

Learning Outcomes

 

Work Placement

Study Abroad

Related Student Organisations

Course Fees

Fees: EU

€6,815 p.a.

Fees: Tuition

€

Fees: Student levy

€

Fees: Non EU

€13,750 p.a.

Find out More

Dr Kerry Thompson
T: +353 91 495 704
E: kerry.thompson@nuigalway.ie

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