Pre-University Biomedical & Biological Science
The aim of this course is to assist learners gain an understanding of biological principles and biomedical concepts.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
1 year full-time.
Entry Requirements
Course Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate with 5 passes or equivalent is the standard entry requirement for all Level 5 courses. Leaving Certificate Applied or QQI Level 4 Award are also acceptable on the majority of Level 5 courses. Applicants who do not meet the standard entry requirements (e.g. mature learners etc.) for particular courses may be interviewed.
A QQI Level 5 award or equivalent in a relevant subject area is the standard entry requirement for Level 6 Advanced Certificate courses.
Non-Standard Applicants
Non-Standard Applicants may be required to complete an interview and/or other form of assessment to successfully complete their registration on their chosen programme.
English Language
All courses are delivered through English. In addition to the listed entry requirements, applicants whose first language is not English are required to complete and provide evidence of English language proficiency. Where prospective learners first language is not English, the standard minimum entry requirements for all courses is proficiency at B2 on The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
School Leavers
Whether you have attended school in Ireland, Northern Ireland, the UK or further afield, we have a programme to suit your needs. We have a wide range of suitable programmes with internationally recognised certification that will enhance both your career and further education possibilities.
International Students
DIFE welcomes applications from eligible international students. Help and advice is available for international students at every step of the application process and continues after enrolment onto your chosen programme.
Careers / Further progression
Progression & Career Options:
Graduates of the Pre-University Biomedical & Biological Science course may apply for a wide range of related science degrees in Universities and Technological Universities in Ireland.
Level 7 and 8 Courses to which this course is linked:
DCU
Chemical & Pharmaceutical Science Level 8
Environmental Science and Technology Level 8
Maynooth University
Biological and Biomedical Sciences Level 8
Trinity College Dublin
Biological and Biomedical Sciences Level 8
Physical Sciences Level 8
UCD
Science Level 8,
University of Galway
Biomedical Science Level 8
University of Limerick
Biological and Chemical Sciences Level 8
Environmental Science Level 8
Science Teaching Level 8
DkIT Science Level 8
TU Dublin Science Level 8
Entry to a range of other courses in Institutes of Technology.
This is not an exhaustive list. Applicants are advised at all times to confirm linked Awards, any additional module requirements, application processes and scoring systems with the Admissions Offices of the participating higher education institutions, or visit www.cao.ie.
Further information
Course commences: September 2026.
Students should apply online through the college website: www.dife.ie (see "Application Weblink").
Further information of the webpage - https://www.dife.ie/application-procedure/
The aim of this course is to assist learners gain an understanding of biological principles and biomedical concepts. This course fosters critical thinking and laboratory skills, preparing students for further studies in health sciences, biomedical, biological sciences, pharmaceutical or environmental science.
Science Places in DCU:
A new agreement with DCU has secured 17 reserved college places for DIFE Science graduates annually across DCU’s Science programmes.
Biology
Chemistry
Infection Prevention and Control
Mathematics
Anatomy and Physiology
Microbiology
Laboratory Skills
Communications
Work Experience
Medical Terminology
5M3807 - Laboratory Techniques
Award: QQI Level 5 Certificate in Laboratory Techniques - 5M3807.
Contact Admissions Office or Course Co-ordinator,
Drogheda Institute,
Tel: 041 983 7105
Web: www.dife.ie
email: dife@lmetb.ie