Newcastle University

Biological Sciences

Industrial and Commercial Biotechnology MSc 

12 months full time

Fees

Fees per academic year 2012-13

UK/EU: full time £6,000
International: full time £14,320
Please refer to our Tuition Fees section for information about changes to fees and fee discounts.

Aims

This programme is designed for students from a variety of backgrounds who have varied levels of biotechnology experience. It aims to equip you with an understanding of the principles and practices that underpin contemporary biotechnology and with the knowledge base and skills required for employment in the biotechnology industry.

Programme Description

The programme covers the scientific principles necessary for an advanced understanding of contemporary industrial biotechnology and develops generic practical skills in handling micro-organisms, molecular biological techniques and data analysis. It examines the fundamental role played by micro-organisms in the turnover of pollutants, the search and discovery of commercially significant natural products, and the production of novel biological compounds. The programme also explores areas of related interest such as bioethics, regulatory affairs and the role of intellectual property in biotechnology. You take five compulsory modules (70 credits), optional modules (30 credits) and complete a research project leading to a thesis (80 credits), often in an industrial setting.

Compulsory modules typically include: gene technology; genetically modified organisms – food and agriculture; antimicrobial drug discovery; bioinformatics theory and practice; medical biotechnology and enterprise.

Optional modules may include: modelling and control in bioprocess systems; genetic modification and cloning of animals; insects – biotechnology and innovation; quantitative techniques, experimental design and data analysis; fundamentals of cell and molecular biology; bioremediation.

Find out  more detailed information about the programme modules

Entrance Requirements

Normally a second-class Honours degree in a related discipline (eg biological sciences, chemistry or chemical engineering). Applicants whose first language is not English require IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. However, applicants with a minimum of IELTS 5.5, or equivalent, will be accepted on condition that they undertake an appropriate pre-sessional English language course at INTO Newcastle University.

Our INTO Newcastle University Centre can provide extra tuition to help you meet the University's English language requirements.

Tier 4 Student Visas (International Applicants)

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) has now revised its rules for Tier 4 student visa applications regarding English language ability. You are now required to hold a minimum of IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent) in all sub skills (listening, writing, reading and speaking) to be eligible to apply for a Tier 4 visa.

Please note that the University’s English language requirements are normally higher (see above).

Typical Funding

UK/EU students - the majority of students are self-funded but some may be eligible for fees assistance by employers.
International students - own government; University scholarships.

How to Apply

There is no closing date for this programme. However, international students applying for September 2012 entry should apply by Friday 13 July 2012 to ensure that they have time to put appropriate arrangements in place.

For the quickest and easiest way to apply, visit our postgraduate online application site.

Further Information

For further information please contact:
Recruitment Secretary
School of Biology
Telephone: +44 (0) 191 246 4848
E-mail: biology.tso@ncl.ac.uk