Biological Sciences (Biotechnology with Enterprise) MBiol, BSc

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.


Modules

Year 1

Compulsory modules

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

Year 2

Compulsory modules

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

Year 3

Compulsory modules

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

Year 4

Compulsory modules

• Extended Research Project
• Specialised Research Topics and Skills for Biotechnology