Duration of programme: Full-time: 12 months
Start date: September.
Deadline to apply for September 2013 entry is Friday 2nd August 2013.
Distance learning available: No
Intake: Approximately 10 per year
Fees for 2013 entry:
UK/EU students: £5,300
International students: £15,600
Application & contact:
Apply for this course online
LHS Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0) 121 204 4161
Fax: +44 (0) 121 204 4187
Email: lhspgt@aston.ac.uk
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.
Download the course flyer PDF >
The programme is based around a set of core modules and a research project that provide experience in key areas of biotechnology:
The MSc qualification will also be an excellent foundation for those wishing to pursue further studies leading to a PhD.
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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.
International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate a satisfactory command of English language. They should meet our minimum English language requirement by taking one of the following tests:
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IELTS. Minimum requirement - 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each area.
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TOEFL IBT. Minimum requirement - 100 overall, (21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking).
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Pearson Academic. Minimum requirement - 61 overall, 59 in each area.
We do not accept a Password test.
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.
Please note that the course is not accredited by any professional body.
The MSc in Biotechnology provides a firm basis for pursuing a career in any aspect of science involving biotechnology. This could involve the food, pharmaceutical or environmental sectors. The MSc degree is an acceptable qualification for applying for a PhD.
The transferable skills acquired on this course include effective written and oral communication, team working, report writing, critical analysis and IT skills.
- 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.
Find out more about our
Biology teaching staff.
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