- Overview
- Course outline
- Entry
- Career path
- How to apply
Course Overview
The life science sector is facing significant changes and opportunities in the coming years with the integration of technologies and processes, as well as the abundance of real-time data.
This specialised programme will explore these challenges and opportunities as organisations embrace digital transformation and seek to achieve greater competitive advantage.
Developed and taught by experienced academics and industry lecturers, this course is delivered through blended learning, 2 evenings per week online and 2 Saturdays per month with a mix of online and in-person.
Accreditation: QQI Level 9 Certificate in Science in Advanced Manufacturing Strategy (Life Science) – Special Purpose Award 30 ECTS.
Next Intake: February 2026. Now accepting applications.

Course Outline
The Certificate in Science in Advanced Manufacturing Strategy (Life Science) is offered as a part-time running over two semesters (programme, 6 months). The programme uses a blended learning approach, combining online modules with on-campus sessions, allowing for flexible scheduling to accommodate different needs.
Part time learners attend classes two evenings per week (6.30pm – 9.30pm) and two Saturdays per month. Evening classes are delivered online and are also broadcast live and recorded.
This course will cover the following modules.
Module 1: Advanced Manufacturing in the Smart Factory
Module 2: Business Case Development
Module 3: Quality Management in a Digital Age
Module 4: Business Strategy and Change Management
Module 5: Operational Excellence – Lean Sigma

On successful completion of the programme learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate detailed knowledge of the facts, concepts, principles and methods associated with the life cycle of scientific discovery, development, manufacture and advanced manufacture of pharmaceutical and medical device products and services.
- Assess business and operational strategies as well as implications to organisations and individuals, based on advancements in new technologies and the abundance of data in a virtual environment.
- Apply advanced methods for acquiring, interpreting and analysing current research relating to trends in life science and big data management.
- Effectively communicate information using data visualisation tools and techniques.
- Critically comment on current and potential trends in advanced manufacturing and data analytics in the life science industry. Make recommendations on current and future strategies informed by the technical, economic, environmental and social implications involved.
Entry Requirements
Level 8 primary degree with a 2.2 award or higher in science, data science/data analytics, manufacturing, quality, computation, engineering, medicine or related discipline. Recognition of prior learning can also be considered to gain access.

Career Options
Over 70% of Innopharma Education graduates have successfully advanced their careers post-completion of our courses. Potential career opportunities following the successful completion of this course are highlighted below:
Career Opportunities for Graduates:
- Digital Transformation
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Process Analytical Technologies
- Process Digitisation / Digitalisation
- Regulatory Affairs / Compliance
- Data Architecture & Analytics
- Operational Excellence
- Business Strategy
An essential part of the course will be the career progression module where significant support will be given to participants on career development through structured one-on-one CV assistance, interviewing support and developing career networks. regular guest speakers and lecturers from the industry will assist graduates in making links with the industry.
Apply Now
Our admissions team are on hand to assist you with your application and answer any questions you may have about the course.
Students who wish to apply to this course should follow the following application process.
Step 1: Enquire through the form at the top right of this page
Step 2: A member of our team will be in contact through phone or email
Step 3: If you are deemed to be eligible for the course, you will be sent an application form by email. You MUST fill in this application form and attach all necessary *documents (CV, ID, Transcripts, etc.)
Step 4: On submission of the completed application form and all documentation, your application will be sent to the associated department for final approval. You will receive an e-mail confirming your place on the programme. (Note: This process can take up to one week, particularly during busy admission periods.)
*We accept scanned documents in a pdf format. Pictures of documents are not accepted.
**For those who are applying for Springboard funding, you will be directed to fill out an additional application form on the Springboard website, this is to confirm your eligibility to receive funding
Please note at any time if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us by email on admissions@innopharmalabs.com or call us (01) 485 334
Why up-skill for the STEM process manufacturing sectors in Ireland?
- Over 130,000 employed within these industries
- Over 40,000 new jobs predicted
- Over €62 billion in exports
- 9 of top 10 world’s biopharma companies in Ireland
- 8 of the top 10 worlds medtech companies in Ireland
- Over 8,000 new jobs predicted

Testimonials
The course had online lectures so anytime I couldn’t go to college I could join the class online. I never missed a class.
BA in Pharmaceutical Business Operations Graduate, Joanna Galon, Senior Associate Regulatory Affairs at Amgen
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