BSc (Hons) Biotechnology with Foundation Year

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Biotechnology with Foundation Year at Liverpool John Moores University prepares students with foundational science knowledge to apply biotechnology in fields such as biopharmaceutical manufacturing, drug discovery, food technology, and biofuel production. The program emphasizes practical skill development, critical thinking, and career readiness through state-of-the-art laboratories and industrial placement opportunities. Students will also explore career growth and entrepreneurship in biotechnology-related industries.

Program Outline

• Practice the latest molecular, bioprocessing, and analytical techniques.
• Participate in research projects in areas such as synthetic biology, genetic engineering, fermentation technology, bioremediation, and antimicrobial resistance.
• Benefit from strong industry links for industrial placements.
• Prepare for careers in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, drug discovery and development, food technology, and biofuel production.
Students will spend a significant portion of their time in state-of-the-art teaching labs, practicing techniques in cell culture, molecular biology, and imaging studies. The course emphasizes practical skills development, critical thinking, and career readiness.

Outline:

Foundation Year:

• The Foundation Year is designed for students who have the ability to study for a degree but lack the necessary qualifications for direct entry into the Biotechnology honors degree program.
• Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, students progress directly onto the first year of the honors degree.

BSc (Hons) Biotechnology:

• Level 3:
• Core Modules:
• Human Anatomy and Physiology (20 credits)
• Fundamental Science Skills (20 credits)
• Introduction to Chemistry (20 credits)
• Introduction to Biochemistry and Cell Biology (20 credits)
• Introduction to Molecular Biology and Genetics (20 credits)
• Further Chemistry (20 credits)
• Level 4:
• Core Modules:
• Introduction to Structural and Functional Biochemistry (20 credits)
• Physiological Biochemistry (20 credits)
• Introduction to Biotechnology (20 credits)
• Practical Skills in Biotechnology (20 credits)
• Microbial Biotechnology 1 (20 credits)
• Introduction to Molecular Biology (20 credits)
• Level 5:
• Core Modules:
• Sterile Pharmaceutical Products (20 credits)
• Structural and Functional Biochemistry (20 credits)
• Molecular Biology and Functional Genomics (20 credits)
• Research Methods in Biotechnology (20 credits)
• Synthetic Biology and Bioengineering 1 (20 credits)
• Microbial Biotechnology 2 (20 credits)
• Optional Modules:
• Sandwich Year - Biotechnology (120 credits)
• Study Year Abroad - Biotechnology (120 credits)
• Study Semester Abroad - Biotechnology (60 credits)
• Level 6:
• Core Modules:
• Current Topics in Biotechnology (20 credits)
• Biotechnology Entrepreneurship (20 credits)
• Synthetic Biology and Bioengineering 2 (20 credits)
• Biochemistry/Biotechnology Research Project (40 credits)
• Optional Modules:
• Industrial Product Development (20 credits)
• Microbial Technology (20 credits)
• Work-Based Learning (20 credits)
• Recombinant Proteins (20 credits)

Assessment:

• Assessment methods vary depending on the module but typically include a combination of exams and coursework.
• Exams are usually held at the end of each semester and may include multiple choice, short answer, interpretative, problem-based learning, and essay questions.
• Coursework assessments may include phase tests, practical reports, data handling, oral presentations, poster presentations, group discussions, essays, or demonstrations of competence in core practical skills.
• Feedback on coursework assessments is generally provided within three weeks of submission via Canvas, face-to-face, or in writing.

Teaching:

• The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining face-to-face and online learning.
• Students have access to support from their personal tutor through on-campus meetings or video calls.
• The amount of time spent in each learning format varies depending on the module and level of study.
• Lecture materials are available on the virtual learning environment, Canvas.
• Students are expected to conduct independent research using the University Libraries.
• The program encourages students to undertake a year-long work placement after their second year to gain practical experience and develop personal skills.
• The Placement Learning and Support Unit provides guidance on finding, applying for, and securing placements.
• Students receive ongoing support from a member of staff during their placement, including workplace visits.

Careers:

• Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue employment opportunities in a wide range of industries and organizations, including pharmaceutical, healthcare, environmental, food industries, and regulatory authorities.
• Some graduates may choose to continue their studies with postgraduate programs (PGCE/PGDE, MSc, MPhil, MRes, or PhD) in areas such as industrial biotechnology, biomedical sciences, drug discovery and design, cosmetic science, and medical microbiology.
• The program is a stepping stone to the MSc Industrial Biotechnology offered by LJMU.

Other:

• The School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences has a strong track record of providing relevant vocational training for students.
• Students are supported by Erasmus and Professional Training Tutors who advertise placements and promote vocational training.
• Students explore a range of career options, develop commercial awareness, and learn about the creation of new start-up biotechnology companies.
• The university provides a range of support services for students, including a Disability Support Coordinator, an EDI Coordinator, and a School EDI Working Group.
• Personal Tutors promote awareness of support services for students.
• Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, teaching spaces, and the Avril Robarts library.
• the Outline section only lists the modules and their credit values.

Home full-time per year:

£9,250

International full-time per year:

£18,250

Placement year:

£1,850

Placement year international:

£3,830 Please note that all figures are subject to yearly increases. Tuition fees are subject to parliamentary approval.