MSc in Biotechnology

Programme outline and modules

The taught MSc Biotechnology programme is designed to provide training and experience in Biotechnology and is driven by the latest commercial and research advances in the field. Students have the opportunity to learn from experienced academic researchers. The aim of the course is to produce scientists who will be able to contribute to a range of career opportunities including academic, commercial, industrial and healthcare applications of biotechnology. 

The programme is based around a set of core modules and a research project that provide experience in key areas of biotechnology:

• Research Methods: Communication Skills
• Introductory Molecular Biology 
• Stem Cell Biology
• Tissue Engineering
• Fermentation / Bioreactors
  
• Cell Culture
  
• Protein Engineering & Production
  
• Enzyme Technology 
• Bioinformatics
  
• Research Project
  

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Entry requirements

• Prospective students must possess a good UK Honours Degree (minimum lower 2nd class) in biochemistry, biotechnology, biology, chemistry, chemical engineering, genetics, materials science, medicine, microbiology or a related field, from a recognised university or an overseas degree recognised by Aston University, plus two references.
  
• Students who speak English as a second language must demonstrate good written and spoken English and an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher.
  

Learning, teaching & assessment

The course is assessed by a combination of coursework, examinations, practical work and oral and written presentations. The research project is assessed on the basis of a preliminary literature review, a project plan, the written project and a poster presentation. We take care to ensure a high staff to student ratio in project supervision to support students in attaining and achieving their full potential.

Professional accreditation

Please note that the course is not accredited by any professional body.

Career opportunities

Personal development

Facilities & equipment

• Lectures and seminars are conducted in modern audio-visually equipped lecture theatres and classrooms.
• “Wet” practicals are conducted in newly refurbished laboratories equipped with a range of pharmaceutical and analytical instruments.
• The exceptional quality of research in the School of Life and Health Sciences (LHS) has been confirmed in the latest Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) results – with research in Allied Health Professions and Studies ranked 3rd out of 63 UK higher education institutions. Projects are conducted alongside established research groups, specialising in biotechnology research.
• Teaching and organisational material is communicated via an electronic learning environment.
• Access to journals is provided via Aston University’s library including a mixture of hard-copy publications and electronic access to several large scientific databases.

Course director

Teaching staff