Program Overview

Biotechnology BSc (Hons)

Overview

Be at the cutting edge of genetic engineering, biomedicine, molecular biology, and microbiology. Supported by extensive practical work, you’ll learn to use industrial techniques on our degree in biotechnology, one of the fastest-growing areas of science.

Course Features

• International students can apply
• Sandwich year option available
• Studying abroad option available

What You'll Study

Year 1

• Biology in Practice: Looks at the nature of biological enquiry, the ways that biological knowledge develops, and the contribution biology makes to society. Part of this module will be delivered during a field trip (costs included in fees).
  • Module code: SCI1107
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 55% Coursework, 45% Practical
• Genetics and Evolution: Introduces the genetic and environmental control of an individual’s characteristics. The module outlines how variation at the DNA and chromosomal level leads to variation in the phenotype and genotype and the potential consequences of this variation including speciation.
  • Module code: SCI1116
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 60% Coursework, 40% Exam
• Introduction to Cell Biology: Focuses on the cell as the basic biological unit. Using a range of activities, you will examine the molecular components that determine the structure, biochemical nature and physiology of different cells.
  • Module code: SCI1117
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
• Three of:
  • Anatomy and Physiology: Focuses on developing your knowledge of the structure and function of the human body.
    • Module code: SCI1118
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Exam, 50% Practical
  • Chemistry for Biologists: Introduces the basics of chemistry, involving clear and lucid explanations of chemical concepts with a coherent problem-solving approach.
    • Module code: SCI1115
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
  • Organic Chemistry: Will use the functional group approach to classify organic substances and to understand their use in a wider context of applied chemistry.
    • Module code: SCI1119
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 100% Coursework
  • Ecology: Introduces concepts fundamental to populations and communities using examples from across habitats and ecosystems.
    • Module code: SCI1112
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 100% Coursework
  • Biodiversity: Provides an overview of the diversity of life, the major taxonomical groups and their phylogenetic relationship.
    • Module code: SCI1113
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Practical
  • Language 1: Is ideal if you want to learn a new language, or further develop your current language skills, as an integrated part of this degree.
    • Module code: TLC1010
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 85% Coursework, 15% Practical

Year 2

• Research Methods in Biology: Develops essential biological research methods and data analysis skills, providing a sound base for a future dissertation.
  • Module code: SCI2308
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 100% Coursework
• Introduction to Biotechnology: Provides a basic understanding of the principles of biotechnology and its practical applications.
  • Module code: SCI2335
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 60% Exam, 40% Coursework
• Molecular Genetics: Provides an understanding of several aspects of the regulation of gene expression both in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
  • Module code: SCI2332
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
• Laboratory Masterclass: Provides extensive experience and underpinning theory in such fundamental tools as microscopy, microbial techniques and DNA technologies to provide a thorough insight into the use and application of such equipment.
  • Module code: SCI2319
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 60% Practical, 40% Coursework
• One of:
  • Invertebrate Ecology: Explores the diversity of terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, examining their life cycle, basic physiology, importance to ecosystem functioning and the range of services with which they provide society.
    • Module code: SCI2317
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Practical
  • Nutrition: Develops your understanding of the properties of food constituents.
    • Module code: SCI2324
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
  • Biogeography: Examines spatial and temporal patterns of living organisms over the earth’s surface and highlights the fundamental processes and causal factors which determine these patterns.
    • Module code: SCI2333
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 60% Exam, 40% Coursework
  • Plant Form and Physiology: Provides you with an understanding of plant structure and physiology.
    • Module code: SCI2338
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
  • Up-Canopy Biology: Provides you with the essential knowledge and practical skills to study forest canopies.
    • Module code: SCI2341
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 60% Coursework, 40% Exam
  • Human Genetics: Involves the study of inherited and acquired genetic conditions at a variety of levels.
    • Module code: SCI2343
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
  • Immunology and Infectious Diseases: Recognises that humans live in an environment with a baffling array of infectious agents.
    • Module code: SCI2344
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam

Year 3

• Biotechnology Research Project: Provides you with the opportunity to conduct your own research, complete a dissertation and apply the concepts, theories and practical skills acquired throughout your Biotechnology degree.
  • Module code: SCI3354
  • Credits: 40
  • Assessment: 100% Coursework
• Applications of Biotechnology: Provides you with an advanced understanding of the applications of biotechnology within various industries including food, medicine, environmental management and agriculture.
  • Module code: SCI3328
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 65% Coursework, 35% Exam
• Advanced Tissue Applications: Provides an in-depth understanding of the use of different cell and tissue-based applications in research, medical diagnostics and at the lab-clinic interface.
  • Module code: SCI3327
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 60% Exam, 40% Practical
• Genomics and Bioinformatics: Centres on how the combination of sequencing and increased computational power has led to a revolution in the way genetic information is utilised and applied.
  • Module code: SCI3015
  • Credits: 20
  • Assessment: 60% Coursework, 40% Exam
• One of:
  • Applications of Genetics: Explores the cutting-edge advances in molecular technologies including gene expression quantification, next generation sequencing and genome editing.
    • Module code: SCI3014
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 60% Exam, 40% Coursework
  • Ecological Genetics: Aligns fieldwork and molecular genetic methods in order to understand the factors influencing genetic variation in populations.
    • Module code: SCI3311
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
  • Pharmacology: Details the development, application and action of drugs on the human system through a combination of practical and theoretical work.
    • Module code: SCI3321
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
  • Epidemiology: Is the study of factors affecting the health and illness of populations.
    • Module code: SCI3324
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 50% Coursework, 50% Exam
  • Field Botany: Is a field-based module, providing you with an opportunity to conduct a detailed study of a particular group of organisms.
    • Module code: SCI3329
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 100% Coursework
  • Plants and People: Provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the importance of plants to human wellbeing in economic and broader cultural settings.
    • Module code: SCI3336
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 100% Coursework
  • Medical Microbiology: Recognises that humans live in an environment with a baffling array of infectious agents.
    • Module code: SCI3359
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 60% Exam, 40% Practical
  • Animal Wildlife and Conservation - International Field Course: Is a field-based module typically delivered abroad.
    • Module code: SCI3362
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 100% Coursework
  • Biodiversity and Conservation Field Course: Is a field-based module providing you with an opportunity for detailed study of habitats and conservation issues at protected sites.
    • Module code: SCI3363
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 100% Coursework
  • Plant Animal Interactions: Will provide you with an advanced understanding of the interactions that underpin ecological relationships in populations, communities and ecosystems.
    • Module code: SCI3364
    • Credits: 20
    • Assessment: 100% Coursework

How You'll Study

The programme has a strong practical base. Learning involves lectures, practical work, tutorials and fieldwork. The department has a wide range of practical facilities and we are keen to develop student skills in the areas of microscopy, microbiology and DNA technologies.

How You'll Be Assessed

Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework and examination tailored to suit the subject area of each module. An extremely wide range of coursework is employed which may include practical portfolios, project reports, website development, product development, plus individual and group oral presentations.

Who Will Be Teaching You

Edge Hill University has over 30 years’ experience in delivering biology-based degrees and has a wealth of experienced tutors, technical staff and field and laboratory equipment to support the study of biotechnology. The Biology department is friendly and approachable and of a size that enables us to know our students personally.

Entry Criteria

Typical offer 112-120 UCAS Tariff points, preferably to include Biology or a related subject, such as Chemistry or Physics, plus GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or Grade 4 or above (or equivalent).

Other subjects will be considered if you have demonstrable interest or experience in biotechnology.

Example Offers

• Qualification | Requirement
  • A Level | BBC-BBB
  • UCAS Tariff points | 112-120 points
  • BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTEC QCF qualifications) | Distinction, Merit, Merit (DMM)
  • T Level | Overall grade of Merit
  • International Baccalaureate (IB) | We are happy to accept IB qualifications which achieve the required number of UCAS Tariff points. Subject-specific requirements at Higher Level (HL) Grade 5 may apply
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma | 45 credits at Level 3, for example 15 credits at Distinction and 30 credits at Merit or 24 credits at Distinction and 21 credits at Merit. The required total can be attained from various credit combinations

English Language Requirements

International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score no lower than 5.5 in each individual component, or an equivalent English language qualification.

How to Apply

Apply online through UCAS

Facilities

Our BioSciences building incorporates impressive, modern laboratories, offering exciting and highly relevant practical experience in some of the best equipped facilities in the country. Resources include fluorescence and scanning electron microscopes, DNA extraction and analysis equipment, and climate controlled insectaries.

Finance

• 2025/26
  • Tuition fees
    • UK Full-Time: £9,535 a year
    • UK Part-Time: £79 per credit for 360 credits
    • International: £17,000 a year

Your Future Career

So what can you do with a biotechnology degree? You’ll have a range of options open to you across biological and wider graduate employment.

Our biotechnology graduates are working with the likes of Rentokil Initial and Whickham Laboratories, in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies (e.g. Lonza) as well as the NHS. Their titles include technologist, laboratory supervisor, and research scientist.

After completing this course, many of our students go on to study postgraduate degrees with us and go on to succeed in more specialist biotechnology roles. That’s why we think it’s wise to consider postgraduate study as part of your next steps.

You might also consider working on biotechnological advances in a laboratory.