MSc Biotechnology - Biotechnology Degree

Program Overview

The University of Essex's MSc Biotechnology program equips students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in biotechnology, including protein technology, gene technology, and synthetic biology. Graduates gain expertise in addressing global challenges in pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and food production. The program features a high proportion of hands-on lab work and is taught by research-active academics, preparing students for careers in the bio-based economy.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MSc Biotechnology program at the University of Essex provides students with knowledge, understanding, and hands-on experience in modern biotechnology, with practical insights into current commercial applications. It aims to equip graduates with the skills and expertise to address challenges facing the planet, including the development of biofuels, pharmaceuticals, and crops to support and feed the growing human population. The program also covers industrial, plant, and medical biotechnology, gene and protein technology, synthetic biology, and bioinformatics.

Outline:

Year 1

Component 01: Core

• Research Project: MSc Biotechnology (60 credits)

Component 02: Core

• Advanced Research Skills (30 credits)

Component 03: Compulsory

• Protein Technologies and Proteomics (15 credits)

Component 04: Compulsory

• Gene Technology and Synthetic Biology (30 credits)

Component 05: Compulsory

• Genomics (15 credits)

Component 06: Compulsory

• Professional Skills and the Business of Biosciences (15 credits)

Component 07: Compulsory with Options

• BS937-7-AU or BS323-7-AU (15 credits)

Assessment:

The program's modules are assessed through a combination of exams, essays, presentations, and written reviews. The dissertation component involves detailed research of relevant scientific literature and conducting novel laboratory and/or bioinformatic research in academic laboratories or industrial/hospital settings.

Teaching:

The program is taught using a combination of lectures, laboratory practicals, tutorials, seminars, fieldwork, independent reading, and research projects. Postgraduate Taught students in the School of Life Sciences typically attend about 10 hours of workshops, lectures, seminars, and practicals each week.

Careers:

Graduates of the MSc Biotechnology program are well-placed to find careers in the ever-growing bio-based economy. Postgraduate study is often a requirement for becoming a researcher, scientist, academic journal editor, or working in public bodies or private companies. Many graduates progress to PhD studies, with the university offering numerous studentships to support their research. The university's Careers Services assists students in finding work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.

Other:

• The program has a very high proportion of practical work, providing valuable experience for students' careers.
• The research-led teaching is continually evolving to address the latest challenges and breakthroughs in the field.
• The university has a Women's Network to support female staff and students, and the School of Life Sciences was awarded the Athena Swan Silver Award in October 2020 for its efforts in improving equality.
• The university has invested in modern facilities for functional genomics, computational biology, and imaging biological systems.
• Students have the opportunity to work in an open and friendly department with shared staff-student social spaces, conduct research alongside leading academics and PhD students in shared labs, and learn to use state-of-the-art equipment.

Home/UK fee £10,000 International fee £21,700