inline-defaultCreated with Sketch.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
2026-09-01
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
1 years
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Masters
Major
Biotechnology | Microbiology | Molecular Biology
Area of study
Natural Science
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2026-09-01-
About Program

Program Overview


Overview

Our Applied Biotechnology MSc includes a wide range of modern molecular biology techniques and explores how biotechnology can be used by today's society. It is an established course in biotechnology which has been extensively updated. You'll complement your theoretical studies with hands-on experience of fully controlled fermenters that are up to pilot-plant scale, and are linked to modern monitoring and control systems.


Course Structure

To be awarded the MSc in Applied Biotechnology, you'll need to study modules for 180 credits. If you choose to take the Postgraduate Project, you'll study seven core modules and one option module.


Core Modules

Molecular Bioengineering

Large databases yield information about DNA, RNA and protein variation between individuals and species and bioinformatics is a crucial component of molecular biology. Polymorphisms, epigenetics and microRNA have all greatly enhanced our knowledge about regulation of gene expression. This module will look at applications of a range of advanced molecular techniques such as CRISPR gene editing, next generation sequencing, microarrays, quantitative and multiplex PCR alongside our knowledge of OMICS and gene expression databases.


20 credits


Fermentation Technology

This module integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling students to develop a comprehensive proficiency in fermentation technology. Key topics include culture media, microbial strain/culture selection and development, microbial/animal cell culture, sterilisation, modes and types of fermentation, oxygen requirement for culture, fermentation control systems, mixing, rheology, fermenter types and designs, and scale-up/down.


20 credits


Sustainable Biotechnology

The module aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that underpin the integration of biotechnology with sustainability goals. You will explore how biotechnology can contribute to environmentally-friendly and socially responsible solutions, addressing challenges such as resource depletion and climate change.


20 credits


Postgraduate Research Methods

The purpose of this module is to teach the principles and practice of research with a focus on study design and methods of data collection. The module shows how these designs and methods can be applied to evaluation studies as well as to research.


20 credits


Postgraduate Project

This module allows you to hone your research skills by undertaking a substantial piece of research. Within this module, you will learn how to formulate a research proposal, investigate an appropriate research topic, keep research records, analyse the results of their research, discuss the findings with reference to previously published work, and convey the importance of their research through effective communication.


40 credits


Science, Technology And Commercialisation

An in-depth study on the scope of commercial biotechnology and starting and financing an operational company. The role of intellectual property protection, preparing a business plan and communicating business ideas, assessing projects, managing a company, and managing finances are all included, as well as how to comply with industrial safety legislation and regulatory requirements.


20 credits


Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics lies at the heart of modern biology. This module introduces the discipline and shows how bioinformatics can help answer practical questions and solve problems in biology, medicine and pharmacology.


20 credits


Option Modules

Communicating Science

This module will explore topics in science communication and will help to develop transferable skills and perspectives in the many ways that scientific knowledge can be disseminated.


20 credits


Systems Biology

This module will introduce the theoretical and practical underpinnings of systems biology. The emphasis is on studies of entire systems assisted by the use of bioinformatics and how the knowledge from these may be applied to medicine.


20 credits


Analytical Techniques and Quality Processes

This industry-focused module will allow you to learn and apply an integrated knowledge base of analytical techniques utilised in the pharmaceutical industry for the quality control of drugs and other products.


20 credits


Biotherapeutics and Regenerative Medicines

This module will provide you with a deep understanding of biotherapeutics and regenerative medicines which is one of the fastest growing areas in the pharmaceutical industry.


20 credits


Entry Requirements

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in biological sciences or a related discipline. Professional qualification of equivalent status and associated work experience or an equivalent qualification deemed suitable by the course team.


If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.5 in writing and no element below 6.0.


Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.


Fees and Funding

UK tuition fee: Tuition fees have yet to be confirmed for this course (Price per academic year)


When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.


International tuition fee: Tuition fees have yet to be confirmed for this course (Price per academic year)


When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.


Research Groups

Our research achieves real-world impact and we are proud to claim a rich and diverse profile of high-quality research and knowledge exchange in a wide range of disciplines.


Find out more about our research groups related to this course:


  • Cancer Research Group
  • Sustainable Biotechnology Research Group
  • Tissue Architecture and Regeneration Research Group

Facilities

Our facilities include:


  • A fermentation suite equipped with fully instrumented and controlled bioreactors of all sizes ranging from 0.5 L to 72 L and bench top downstream processing rigs including Armfield’s chromatography and tangential flow filtration units
  • A tissue culture laboratory
  • An analytical instrumentation suite equipped with gas chromatographs with FID, TCD and MS detectors, HPLC equipped with UV, PDA, MSQ, fluorescence, evaporative light scattering and electrochemical detectors, spectrophotometers (absorbance and luminescence), multi-detection microplate reader, bio-imaging system, gamma and scintillation counters, Typhoon gel imager, clinical chemistry and Haematology analysers, FTIR analyser, Potentiostat, DGGE analyser
  • A flow cytometer, PCR machines, microscopes of all types including inverted microscopes, laser scanning confocal microscopes, fluorescence microscope etc
  • Other equipment normally found in any lab including shaken incubators, bench top centrifuges, pH meters, freezers and biosafety cabinets

Teaching and Assessment

Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course.


How you’ll be taught

Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application.


How you’ll be assessed

Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into three broad categories:


  • Written exams: end of semester exams
  • Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
  • Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation

Year 1:


  • Scheduled hours: 30%
  • Independent study: 70%
  • Placement: 0%

Assessment:


  • Written exams: 0%
  • Practical: 18%
  • Coursework: 82%
SHOW MORE
About University
Masters
Bachelors
Diploma
Foundation
Courses

University of Westminster


Overview:

University of Westminster is a public university located in London, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university is known for its focus on practical learning and its strong connections to the industry.


Services Offered:


Student Life and Campus Experience:

The university has four campuses across London, providing students with a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students have access to various facilities, including a cinema, gallery spaces, and sports facilities. The university also offers a range of student support services, including career guidance, academic support, and mental health services.


Key Reasons to Study There:

    Location:

    The university's location in London provides students with access to a wealth of cultural and professional opportunities.

    Practical Learning:

    The university emphasizes practical learning, with many programs incorporating work placements and industry projects.

    Industry Connections:

    The university has strong connections to industry, providing students with opportunities for networking and career development.

    Diverse Student Body:

    The university has a diverse student body, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Academic Programs:

The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

    Undergraduate courses:

    A broad range of undergraduate courses in various disciplines, including business, design, creative industries, and liberal arts.

    Postgraduate courses:

    A variety of postgraduate study options, including master's degrees, research degrees, and short courses.

Other:

The university has a strong commitment to research and innovation, with a focus on areas such as sustainability, social justice, and digital technologies. It also has a dedicated alumni network, providing support and opportunities for graduates.

Total programs
958
Location
Ambassadors
How can I help you today?