Biological Sciences (Biotechnology with Enterprise)

Year 1 provides an introduction to core themes related to biotechnology, including molecular and cell biology, microbiology, genetics and immunology, giving you a broad understanding of life at the molecular and cellular level. Alongside these modules, you will study the processes involved in enterprise planning and management. Optional modules are also available to broaden your business awareness.

You’ll develop sound laboratory techniques for studying microorganisms and cellular components such as proteins and DNA through practical classes. You will develop your ability to analyse, interpret and present data, use scientific information to solve problems and design experiments exploiting the techniques you have learnt in the laboratory.

In Year 2, you will continue to study biological processes at the molecular and cellular levels, and your continued skills development will be supported through modules that integrate regular tutorials, laboratory practicals and data handling exercises. Practical classes will take the form of projects relating to areas of specific interest to biotechnologists, including gene expression and drug discovery.

At the end of your second year you’ll have the option of taking a Study Year Abroad, an Industrial Placement Year, or a Year in Enterprise.

You will continue to develop your understanding of business practice and will undertake a module in New Business Planning in preparation for your independent enterprise project in Year 3. In addition to this project, you will also undertake a research project in biotechnology which can be laboratory, literature or computer based (eg bioinformatics, a sought-after skill for modern bioscientists). Both projects will be supported by expert tutors from the relevant subject area.

Alongside your project, you will study advanced topic modules, where you can choose from a range of biotechnology topics at the cutting edge of research. You’ll continue to develop a broad range of skills through the subject-specific skills module, as in previous years.

Integrated Masters (MBiol)

Years 1 and 2 are the same as for the BSc, and provide foundation knowledge and skills. Transfer from the BSc course at the end of Year 2 is available subject to performance.

In Year 3, you will undertake a biotechnology practical project, which aims to introduce you to increasingly sophisticated techniques and research facilities, alongside your enterprise development project. You’ll also carry out a literature review of your proposed Year 4 biotechnology project area, with the support of your supervisor. You’ll undertake an advanced skills module and study a range of current topics aligned with your scientific interests.

In Year 4, you will spend approximately six months working on your research project in your supervisor’s laboratory, alongside a skills module which aims to prepare you for life as a professional scientist, and a Masters-level enterprise module.

Find out more about choosing between an integrated Masters and a BSc degree

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• The Molecules of Life 10 credits
• Introductory Skills for Biotechnology 40 credits
• Applied Biology and Agriculture 10 credits
• Introduction to Genetics 10 credits
• Molecular Physiology 20 credits
• Enterprise in Action 10 credits
• Introductory Microbiology 10 credits

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• The Power of Bacterial Genomics 10 credits
• Genetic Engineering 10 credits
• Intermediate Skills for Biotechnology 40 credits
• Sustainable Food Production 10 credits
• Entrepreneurship in Theory and Practice 10 credits
• New Enterprise Planning 20 credits

Year 3

Compulsory modules

• Advanced Skills in the Biosciences 20 credits
• Research Tools and Applications 20 credits
• Extended Research Project Preparation 20 credits
• Applied Genetics 20 credits
• Enterprise Development Project 20 credits

Year 4

Compulsory modules

• Extended Research Project 90 credits
• Specialised Research Topics and Skills for Biotechnology 15 credits