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Overview

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 provide the training and development necessary to meet demand for highly skilled scientists within the expanding and global bioscience sector. It can lead to a wide range of careers including academic, commercial, industrial and healthcare applications of biotechnology.

You can choose to study the MSc Biotechnology or the MSc Biotechnology with Professional Experience – they are the same course with the latter including a placement experience.

Course information

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.

Career prospects

Within the life sciences, biotechnology is a rapidly growing sector and it is predicted that the global expansion in biotechnology will be a key driver in the world economy. This course is specifically designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge required for a career within biotechnology both in the UK and internationally.

Many biotechnologists are employed by companies in the biotechnology industry, where they may be involved in medical, industrial or agricultural biotechnology research. They can also work for contract research organisations (CROs) or academic departments within universities on research projects.

Study options:

1 year full-time
2 years part-time
18-20 months (with professional experience)