Biotechnology

Degree and UCAS code

Biotechnology is a multidisciplinary science that seeks to optimise the utilisation of micro-organisms, animals, plants and their cellular components in industrial and agricultural processes and in environmental management.

What will I study?

In the first two years you will study general science and biology courses. In second year, you will be introduced to the study of genetics, proteins and nucleic acids. In addition, you will be able to choose from a wide range of other courses.

If you progress to Honours you will be introduced to the industrial requirements and managerial strategies involved in the identification, development, production and marketing of new biotechnological products. You will gain knowledge of molecular and cellular structure and function within which an understanding of the operation of existing biotechnological processes can be obtained and prospects for the development of new processes analysed. In third year you will be taught in conjunction with the Molecular & Cellular Biology degree programme.

In fourth year you will choose from a range of specialised advanced courses, focusing on scientific, particularly molecular, topics relevant to biotechnology. You will also undertake an original research project under the supervision of a researcher.

How will I learn?

Teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, small group tutorials, seminars and lab work. There is an emphasis on methods of learning in which our students take the lead, such as problem-based learning, workshops and poster sessions.

Special feature

You may be eligible to take a one-year work placement as an integral part of this degree programme, registering for an MSci degree in Biotechnology. The placement year is normally spent doing research in industry or some other organisation in the UK or abroad.

Faster Route

The University offers this degree as a Faster Route programme to highly qualified students. This means that the time you take to complete a degree is one year less than usual.

Entry requirements

Typical offer

• Highers: ABBB, preferably with two science subjects
• A-levels: ABB, preferably with two science subjects
• IB: 32 points including two science subjects

Faster route degree entry requirements

Applicants with AAA grades in appropriate Advanced Highers or A-levels, or International Baccalaureate with 6,6,5 at Higher Level in appropriate subjects and at least 38 points overall, will be considered for our Faster Route degree programmes where available.

Full details of Entry requirements: Science

What are my career prospects?

Our graduates are employed in industrial and environmental management, particularly in industries which have a substantial science/research base, and in teaching.

Find out more

• Departmental information: Biomedical & Life Sciences: Undergraduate School: Biotechnology

How to apply

If you are seeking full-time entry, you must apply through the Universities & Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). There is an application fee for this service.

• Apply at www.ucas.com or through your school or college.
• Contact UCAS on 0870 112 2200.

For further details, see: Undergraduate study: How to apply