Biotechnology MSc

Program Overview

Biotechnology MSc

Course Overview

Biotechnology is revolutionising industry, harnessing the power of living organisms to develop groundbreaking solutions to global challenges. Gain the skills to be at the forefront of this exciting field.

What You'll Study

Throughout the course, you will develop an understanding of the core subject areas in biotechnology, including cellular molecular biology, genetics, protein biology, bioinformatics, numeracy, statistics and computing, and a range of practical laboratory techniques.

Modules

• Theoretical Principles for Laboratory Scientists – 30 credits
  • Explore the broader aspects of laboratory work, including regulatory bodies, ISO standards and health and safety procedures.
  • Gain insight into the types of data generated and the ethical implications of generating, storing and communicating this data.
  • A key focus will be the role of big data in current and future scientific developments.
  • This module integrates the International Certificate of Digital Literacy (ICDL) module Data Analytics.
• Laboratory and Data Analysis Skills – 30 credits
  • This module includes extensive laboratory time to improve your technical and data analysis skills.
  • It covers modern molecular and cellular analysis methods, theoretical foundations and bioinformatics databases.
  • The module integrates the International Certificate of Digital Literacy (ICDL) module Big Data.
• Master’s with professional placement
  • If you successfully secure a placement in industry within your first semester, this master’s with professional placement option allows you to extend your 12-month master’s course up to an additional year to complete the placement before starting your final 60-credit module.
  • Gain valuable industry insights and skills as you apply your academic knowledge and skills to a professional placement.
  • The placement must be sourced and secured by you during your first semester.
• Research Project – 60 credits
  • Apply your acquired knowledge and skills to an independent research investigation, working under the guidance of an expert supervisor and contributing original findings to the field.
  • It is designed to equip you with the theoretical understanding and practical expertise necessary to excel in a competitive scientific career.
• Molecular Biology route additional modules
  • Advances in Molecular Biology – 30 credits
    • Explore the frontiers of cell and molecular biology.
    • Gain knowledge in omics technologies, gene regulation and techniques for manipulating genetic material, including the creation of transgenic organisms and gene expression control.
  • Molecular Basis of Human Disease – 30 credits
    • Explore the molecular mechanisms underlying human disease, integrating advanced knowledge in molecular biology and medicine.
    • Through case studies on cancer, metabolic disorders and infectious diseases, examine the challenges and advances in developing treatments.
• Industrial and Environmental route additional modules
  • Industrial Biotechnology – 30 credits
    • A cutting-edge examination of industrial biotechnology, this module aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to shape the future of sustainable production.
    • Investigate innovative bioprocesses, examining the production and recovery of valuable molecules across diverse industries.
  • Environmental Biotechnology – 30 credits
    • Explore cutting-edge advancements in environmental biotechnology and in-depth knowledge of global innovative practices.
    • Focus on bioremediation techniques alongside the critical role of biotechnology in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration strategies.
• Vaccinology and Immunotherapy route additional modules
  • Advanced Topics in Vaccinology and Immunotherapy – 30 credits
    • Dive into the world of immunotherapy and vaccinology, focusing on modern disease prevention and treatment.
    • Key areas of this module include rational vaccine design, immune response and vaccine efficacy, cancer immunotherapy, mucosal immunity, and the future of vaccinology.
  • Human and Animal Vaccines – 30 credits
    • Explore vaccines’ critical role in protecting human and animal health.
    • Study the pathobiology of infectious diseases and cancers and the mechanisms of vaccine action, including traditional and innovative design and delivery methods.

How You'll Learn

Teaching and learning methods may include:

• hands-on laboratory-based sessions
• face-to-face lectures
• research-informed workshops
• interactive formats such as quizzes, discussions, presentations and case studies
• self-guided and directed study

Teaching Contact Hours

As a full-time postgraduate student, you will study modules totalling 180 credits each academic year. A typical 30-credit module requires a total of 300 hours of study. Study hours are made up of teaching contact hours, and guided and independent study.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which could vary depending on the module. Assessment methods may include:

• essays
• laboratory or project reports
• group work
• individual assignments
• presentations
• data analysis and case study exercises
• time-restricted coursework

Entry Requirements

Typical entry requirements:

• UK: An honours degree 2:2 or above (or international equivalent) in a biotechnology, bioscience or biological chemistry related discipline.
• International: An honours degree 2:2 or above (or international equivalent) in a biotechnology, bioscience or biological chemistry related discipline.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

Fees and Funding

• UK, Ireland, Channel Islands or Isle of Man: £11,200 per year
• EU: £11,200 per year with EU Support Bursary, £18,600 per year without EU Support Bursary
• International: £18,600 per year

Facilities

You will have access to our Alison Gingell Building teaching laboratory facilities where you can gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience. It’s facilities include the Superlab, equipped with anaerobic and flow chambers, PCR instruments, protein analysers, a Sanger sequencing facility and advanced molecular biology and cell culture equipment.

Careers and Opportunities

Graduates with a Biotechnology MSc are well-positioned for roles in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, healthcare and industrial sectors. Here are some potential career paths:

• research and development
• process engineering
• quality control
• regulatory affairs
• technical sales representative
• bioremediation
• environmental consulting
• environmental policy
• sustainable development
• government agencies
• non-profit organisations
• medical writing
• scientific consultancy
• entrepreneur
• PhD
• post-doctoral research
• academia