Program Overview

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Biotechnology BSc

Overview

Biotechnology is a subject that combines biological science and technology to develop innovative products by changing the genetic make-up of biological cells. Biotechnology impacts on the quality of our lives and the world we live in.

Course Details

Qualification

BSc Hons

Entry Requirements

BBB

Start Date

September 2026

UCAS Code

J700

Duration

3 years full-time

Fees

£9,535*

Course Structure

Year One

• An Introduction to Biotechnology
• Foundation Science for Bioscientists
• Essential Study Skills
• Introduction to Plant Science
• The Physiology of Microbes
• Introductory Physiology
• Plant Science Research Tutorials
• An Introduction to Genetics and Biochemistry

Year Two

• Fundamentals of immunology
• Molecular Biology of the Cell
• Molecular Pharming and Biotechnology
• Professional Skills for Biotechnologists
• Research Skills for Biotechnologists
• Epigenetics and Developmental Biotechnology
• Analysis of Bacterial Gene Expression
• Bacterial Biological Diversity
• Virology
• Reproductive Physiology
• Applied Animal Science
• Structure, Function and Analysis of Genes
• Fundamental and Applied Yeast Physiology
• Bacterial Genes and Development
• Microbial Biotechnology
• Computer Modelling in Science: Introduction
• Principles of Animal Nutrition
• Structure, Function and Analysis of Proteins - Theory

Year Three

• Undergraduate Research Project
• RNA Biology and CRISPR Technology in Cell Function and Disease
• Yeast and Fermentation Technology
• Biotechnology in Animal Physiology
• Applied Bioethics 1: Animals, Biotechnology and Society
• Omics: At the Forefront of Biotechnology
• Computer Modelling in Science: Applications
• Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology
• Genetic Improvement of Crop Plants
• Sex, Flowers and Biotechnology
• Current Issues in Crop Science
• Microbial Fermentation
• Plant Cell Signalling
• Plant Disease Control
• Virology and Cellular Microbiology
• Environmental Biotechnology
• Molecular Nutrition
• Molecular Evolution: Constructing the Tree of Life
• Plant Pathology
• Critical Perspectives in Entrepreneurship and Innovation
• Current Topics in Development and Genetics

Additional Information

Year in Computer Science

You can choose to add this optional additional year when you start your degree. It takes place between your second and third years. You’ll learn how to bring together the latest developments from across science disciplines. This is increasingly important to help solve some of the biggest challenges we face.

Study Abroad

There are a number of options to apply to study abroad during your time at Nottingham. We offer designated support to guide you through the entire process. You can apply to:

• study at the University of Nottingham Malaysia in your second year for a semester or a whole year
• study in Australia or Canada. We'll help you apply to spend a semester of your second year at one of our highly ranked international partner universities
• study in France, Austria or Spain for an additional year between years two and three

Year in Industry

There’s a wide range of possible year in industry placements on offer. We have good links with companies, and our dedicated placement team is available to support you in finding the right placement. Often a placement year can help you to secure a graduate job and help with your career skills.

Assessment

We use a range of assessment methods, including exams, essays, oral presentations, problem-based exercises, and practical reports. You will receive a copy of our marking criteria which provides guidance on how we will assess your work. Your work will be marked on time and you will receive regular feedback to improve your work.

Careers

Industries that need biotechnologists include:

• pharmaceuticals
• healthcare
• bioenergy
• green chemicals
• agriculture
• food production

You can work in research and development (R&D), quality, operations, sales, and business development.

Campus

Sutton Bonington Campus combines world-leading laboratories with a countryside location, just a few miles from the city of Nottingham. The campus is home to over 2,500 biosciences and veterinary medicine students.