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University of Bath

Degree level: Postgraduate

Biotechnology (Sustainable Biotechnologies) (Taught)

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2023 - 2024
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7Jun
University of Bath - Postgraduate Virtual Open Day
Postgraduate
Make sure you check on the university, college or conservatoire website for any updates about course changes as a result of COVID-19.

Course summary

Study the rapidly developing field of biotechnology and get ready for a career improving the sustainability of materials and chemical processes. This course will give you an understanding of how the molecular and cellular mechanisms of biological systems can be utilised and manipulated to solve real-world biological problems. You'll gain the skills and expertise required for future developments in biotechnology, along with specialist knowledge in sustainable biotechnology. Course specifics From engineering crops that can cope with climate change for improved food security, to developing new biofuels for sustainable energy or mitigating fast-fashion with recyclable textile waste, sustainable biotechnology can dramatically help us improve life on our planet. Along with a core module in biotechnology, you'll study specific modules so you're ready to provide novel solutions to the challenges of the modern age:

  • 'Beer and Biofuels', looking at using fermentation for everything from improved food products to sustainable energy.
  • 'Food Security and the Environment', for instance engineering new sustainable pesticides to improve crop yields.
  • 'Bioprocess and Water Engineering', including using microorganisms for waste treatment.
You'll also take a unit focussing on the wider challenges of global environmental sustainability, giving you the opportunity to develop and use skills in entrepreneurship, teaching, media and communication, or public engagement. Research projects As a key part of the course, you'll undertake two research projects: Research project 1 is a group project based in the lab working with colleagues on the course and using cutting-edge CRISPR/Cas 9 gene editing techniques. Research project 2 is a more in-depth individual project running for the summer semester. You'll work in a research team within the Faculties of Science or Engineering & Design. This includes the possibility of publishing your research at the end of the project. Examples of final projects offered to our current Molecular Biosciences with Biotechnology stream include:
  • Evolution of salt and drought-tolerance in brassica plants.
  • Environment sensing in fungi: A regulator of disease and toxin contamination.
Course highlights
  • Study at a Top 10 University on a course designed in consultation with industry partners to give you the skills employers need.
  • Gain extensive research, collaboration and practical experience by carrying out two separate research projects including working alongside a researcher from one of our world-renowned research groups within the Faculty of Science or Engineering.
  • Access our dedicated postgraduate labs, giving you the laboratory exposure and specialist skills required by industry and academia.
  • Get support from your dedicated Personal Tutor for the duration of the course and get help and support for course work from our friendly team of lecturers and researchers.
Career prospects You’ll graduate with the specialist skills and knowledge for a career in further research, such as a PhD, or roles outside of academia in bioscience, agriculture or environmental industries. You'll also be suited for careers in non-lab settings such as legal, educational or entrepreneurial roles. Recent biotechnology graduates from Bath have been successful in applying for PhD places and others have gone on to roles including Upstream Scientist, Bioanalytical Scientist and Life Science Conference Producer. Who is this course for? This course is for you if you’ve graduated from any bioscience, medical, veterinary or related discipline and you’re interested in specialising in a career using sustainable biotechnologies. We also offer the course with the option to specialise in healthcare technologies, and we have an MSc in Molecular Biosciences with specialisms offered in microbiology, bioinformatics and medical biosciences.

Modules

This course lasts 1 year, or 2 years with a placement in industry. Occasionally we make changes to our programmes in response to, for example, feedback from students, developments in research and the field of studies, and the requirements of accrediting bodies. You will be advised of any significant changes to the advertised programme, in accordance with our Terms and Conditions. Units In addition to the units studied during the course, you'll have access to online study materials two weeks before the start of semester 1, to help you prepare for study at Bath. Compulsory course units These compulsory units are currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new units. All compulsory units Advances in molecular biotechnology Broadening horizons Research project 1A Research project 2 Optional course units These are examples of current modules available on the Sustainable Biotechnologies stream. Beer and biofuels Food security and the environment Bioprocess and water engineering

Assessment method

Coursework Essay Online assessment Presentations Written examination Other

Entry requirements

British qualifications You should have a first or strong second-class bachelor's honours degree or international equivalent. To apply for this course, you should have an undergraduate degree in any biosciences, medical or biomedical-based subject, such as biosciences, medical, veterinary, biotechnology, life sciences, pharmacy or pharmacology, or in biochemical engineering or technology. We may make an offer based on a lower grade if you can provide evidence of your suitability for the degree. If your first language is not English but within the last 2 years you completed your degree in the UK, you may be exempt from our English language requirements. English language requirements IELTS: 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 62 with no less than 59 in any element TOEFL IBT: 90 overall with a minimum 21 in all 4 components You will need to get your English language qualification within 24 months prior to starting your course. If you need to improve your English language skills before starting your studies, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course to reach the required level.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Additional fee information

Tuition fees can be found on our web pages and are liable to increase annually. UK and Islands fees are regulated by the UK government and are subject to parliamentary approval. For all other fees, you should budget for an increase of up to 5% for every further year of study. For information on tuition fees visit our web pages: http://www.bath.ac.uk/topics/tuition-fees/
Biotechnology (Sustainable Biotechnologies) at University of Bath - UCAS