Joan Ní Gabhann-Dromgoole, Judith Harmey and Ben Ryan, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI)
School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences (PBS), RCSI, University of Medicine and Health Sciences
For students, making the transition from University to the workplace has become increasingly challenging, with employers reporting a widespread lack of transversal competencies such as communication, teamwork and leadership in recent graduates. A Fortune article highlights rising dismissal rates among new graduates due to unprofessional behaviour, poor communication, and lack of initiative. The development of the BSc in Advanced Therapeutic Technologies (BSc ATT) program is very timely as it addresses this gap by integrating credit-bearing transversal skills training throughout its curriculum, ensuring graduates develop the competencies essential for personal and professional success.
The program takes an experiential, student-centered learning approach, embedding these essential skills from Year 1 and reinforcing them through credit bearing Modules in Professional Formation, Project Management, and Leadership & Management that incorporate practical workshops, laboratory sessions, and reflective exercises. Students consolidate these skills during an 8-month industry placement where they gain real-world experience and the opportunity to demonstrate workplace readiness.
To evaluate effectiveness, student and employer assessments at months 2, 4, and 8 of the placement measure transversal skills development using a validated rubric. Additionally, an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) study will explore student perceptions of their preparedness for employment, offering qualitative insights into the programs impact.
By aligning with industry needs and addressing employer concerns, the BSc ATT provides an evidence-based model for embedding transversal skills training in healthcare and life sciences education. This innovative approach ensures graduates are not only technically proficient but also workplace-ready, adaptable, and equipped for career success in the biopharmaceutical industry.
