Written answers
Monday, 8 September 2025
Department of Education and Skills
Courses Accreditation
Jen Cummins (Dublin South Central, Social Democrats)
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2719. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to expand the amount of biomedical science degrees that are accredited with relevant professional bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46030/25]
James Lawless (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)
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Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) are autonomous bodies responsible for their own academic affairs, including the programmes they offer.
Medical Scientist is a distinct healthcare profession in which individuals work in hospital laboratories to assist with diagnosis. It is separate from the academic discipline of biomedical science. For example, a student may pursue a degree in biomedical sciences and pursue a successful career in research or the pharmaceutical sector; however, such a degree does not necessarily qualify them to work as a medical scientist. To practise as a medical scientist, individuals must hold a qualification approved by CORU, the independent regulator for health and social care professions.
The following qualifications are currently approved by the Medical Scientists Registration Board:
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Medical Science, Atlantic Technological University.
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Medical Science, Technological University Dublin.
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical Science, Munster Technological University and University College Cork (joint degree) AND Diploma in Clinical Laboratory Practice, Munster Technological University.
- Higher Diploma in Medical Science, Atlantic Technological University.
- Higher Diploma in Medical Science, Technological University Dublin.
It is important to recognise that this was an initial step to activate places in these critical professions. Meeting our collective government commitments to expand healthcare disciplines will require further significant growth, including the development of new courses.
Work on the next phase is already underway. My officials are actively engaging with the HEA, the higher education sector, and other government departments. We are also exploring new pathways to grow a sustainable pipeline of healthcare and therapy professionals, including postgraduate programmes, tertiary education models, and apprenticeships.
I remain committed to supporting my Government colleagues in providing additional places as a key mechanism to meet growing workforce demands. With the continued support of our agencies, providers, and regulatory bodies, we will ensure the sustainable growth of these essential programmes.
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