Biotechnology BSc

Course overview

Biotechnology aims to apply the latest molecular techniques to modern-day problems in industrial and environmental situations. Fundamental research in these areas will help to shape the development of the industrial world.

You will study plant, animal and microbial sciences, underpinned by biochemistry, genetics, computing and some applied aspects of agriculture, environmental science and food science.

Our flexible course provides the opportunity to specialise in areas which are of greatest interest to you in years 2 and 3 in either the plant, animal or microbial areas of biotechnology.

Final year research project
Nottingham's international reputation for research excellence enables us to teach at the cutting edge of biotechnology. Students particularly benefit from this during the final year when they undertake their own research project. Students work in close collaboration with research-active scientists on problems of real significance, making use of the considerable research expertise and facilities available on campus.

Year one 

During the first year, you will study core modules in Biochemistry, Genetics and Cell Biology, Whole Organism Biology, Animal Physiology, Plant Science and Microbial Physiology. There is also the opportunity to choose other suitable modules according to your individual interests in the animal, plant or microbial areas.

Year two

Core modules include Mammalian Biochemistry, Plant Biotechnology and Molecular Pharming. During the second and third year, the number of optional modules increases.

Year three

You may choose to specialise entirely in animal, plant or microbial biotechnology; your research project is also undertaken in one of these subject areas.

Industry Placement year

You can take advantage of an optional industry placement between years two and three of your degree. This year-long placement as a paid employee allows you to develop a range of skills and enhance your employment prospects. Read more

International Study Options

• Malaysia option: Students on this degree may have the opportunity to study for one semester or one year at the University's Malaysia Campus. Read more
• Combining Biotechnology with a Certificate in European Studies (C1RY) offers the opportunity to follow your degree in another European country.
• Students can apply for a Universitas 21 placement at one of our partner universities enabling study periods at a variety of overses locations including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA and China.

Entry requirements

A levels: ABB-BBB, including at least two science subjects at A level (one of which must be biology; other can be maths or geography), and an additional A level or equivalent.

English language requirements 

IELTS 6.0 (no less than 5.5 in any element)

TOEFL iBT 79 (minimum 17 in listening and writing, 18 in reading and 20 in speaking)

Alternative qualifications 

For details please see alternative qualifications page

Foundation year - a foundation year is available for this course

Flexible admissions policy

We may make some applicants an offer lower than advertised, depending on their personal and educational circumstances.

Notes for applicants 

Our modular courses are flexible and offer the opportunity to combine your main studies with modules in other subject areas (please note that all modules are subject to change).

Scholarships - for details of scholarships, please see www.nottingham.ac.uk/biosciences

Modules

The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.

More detailed information on course structure and modules.

Typical year-one modules

• Genetics and Cell Biology
• Whole Organism Biology
• Introductory Biochemistry
• Data Transfer, Analysis and Presentation

Typical year-two modules

• Molecular Pharming: Assessing the Impact of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
• Mammalian Biochemistry 
• Plant Biotechnology

Typical year-three modules

You may choose to specialise entirely in animal, plant or microbial biotechnology. Your research project will be undertaken in one of these subject areas. 

 Typical optional modules

• Biotechnology in Animal Physiology
• The Microflora of Foods
• Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology
• Plant Cell Signalling
• Reproduction and Fertility
• Molecular Nutrition
• Microbial Fermentation
• Genetic Improvement of Crop Plants

Careers

By the end of the course you will have a sound knowledge of fundamental cell and molecular biology and its application to biotechnology, ensuring you are prepared for careers in industrial or academic research or related commerce. Through your research project you will have developed specialist knowledge in an area of your choice, and transferable skills including data analysis and presentation, effective communication and independent study.

In recent years graduates have found employment as:

• Research workers in industrial and government research institutes
• Advisors in management, sales, and marketing
• Teachers and lecturers in schools and higher education
• Financial and business consultants

Average starting salary 

The average starting salary for 2010/11 full-time graduates of the School of Biosciences was £18,111.*

*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2010/11.

Careers Support and Advice

Studying for a degree at The University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take. Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.

Have a look at our Careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.  

KIS