Biotechnology

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold the equivalent of a 2:2 (2.1 for the professional experience course) undergraduate degree in Bioscience or Biological Chemistry. We would expect to see the study of the following subjects in the final year of the undergraduate degree: molecular biology (e.g. recombinant DNA), microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology.

Months of entry

May, September

Course content

Biotechnology is predicted to be one of the most important applied sciences of the 21st century and a key driver in the world economy. From agricultural and environmental to pharmaceutical and healthcare products and services, it already represents one of the largest and most rapidly growing sectors within the life sciences.

This master’s course is designed to expand your knowledge of the molecular, biochemical, cell biological and genetic techniques underpinning modern biotechnology and how they can be used to solve real world problems and benefit society.

We aim to provide hands-on practical experience of both laboratory and bioinformatics techniques. We will train you in biotechnology research strategies so that you have the chance to gain an understanding of the nature of business based on bioscience knowledge and research, opportunities for innovation, regulatory requirement constraints, intellectual property and ethical issues.

We will also consider some of the contemporary issues facing biotechnology, such as gene therapy and gene editing, biofuels, bioremediation, genetically modified foods, and food biotechnology.

You will also have the opportunity to undertake a research project/dissertation in an area of biotechnology that interests you. As a guide, past students have researched the following areas: gene therapy; the cytotoxic, antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of phytochemicals; novel antimalarial drugs; the use of bacteriophage to remove biofilms; and the use of novel enzymes in biofuel production.

If you choose to apply for the extended 'With Professional Experience' route, you will have the opportunity to gain substantive professional experience and have the option of applying for an internship* with a host of different organisations or participate in supervised, campus-based projects. Successful graduates of this course should have gained exceptional scientific understanding and a host of cognitive, practical and professional skills.

Internships may be paid or unpaid, and this will depend on what is being offered and agreed with the host organisation. Students who do not wish to undertake an internship or are not successful in securing an internship will undertake campus-based professional experience, which will deliver similar learning outcomes through supervised projects and activities designed to offer students the opportunity to integrate theory with an understanding of professional practice.

*Internships are subject to competitive application, availability,additional fees and meeting any applicable visa requirements.

Information for international students

This course requires IELTS of 7.0 overall, with no component lower than 6.0. Pre-sessional English is available if required.

Fees and funding