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Biotechnology (Including Year Abroad)

1 Study option · UndergraduateColchester Campus

Course options

2026-2027
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Course summary

The BSc (Hons) Biotechnology is a three-year degree, extendable to four with an optional year in placement or abroad.

You’ll gain a strong understanding of the uses, potential and implications of biotechnology, ready to find solutions for global crises such as climate change and the spread of antimicrobial resistance.

WHY THIS COURSE

The BSc (Hons) Biotechnology gives you a broad, research-led education in animal, plant and microbial biotechnology and a strong foundation in molecular and cell biology.

You’ll gain hands-on lab training and visit a range of biotech and agritech companies, readying you for your final-year research project and for future employment in this increasingly important field.

Add a placement year or study abroad to put your learning into practice, expand your perspective and build confidence in professional or international settings. Previous students have placed with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Proctor & Gamble (P&G), AquaTerra, AstraZeneca, Genzyme, Reckitt Benckiser, Thermo Fisher and Isogenica – some of our 40 partner labs.

You’ll graduate with the broad biological understanding and training in modern molecular techniques for careers in sectors such as biotechnology, pharma, aquaculture, agriculture and food, water, biomedical science and public health.

Ways to study this course

Campuses

  • Colchester Campus

Study options

  • BSc (Hons) • Full-time • 4 Years

Start dates

  • 10/2026

Application codes

Course code:
C112
Institution code:
E70

University of Essex has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.

See why these ratings were awarded
What does this TEF outcome mean?

How to apply

Application codes

Course code:
C112
Institution code:
E70

Chat to student ambassadors

Discover what it's like to study Biotechnology (Including Year Abroad) at University of Essex: insights on the course, making friends, personal statement tips, uni prep, and recommended books, podcasts, and videos.

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  • Ayo

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    Hey, I’m a second-year LLB Law student studying at Essex. I’m interested in Corporate law. When I’m not drowning in cases, Im probably listening to music, watching k dramas, or travelling around the world or probably sleeping. I’d be happy to answer any questions. Feel free to ask me anything about life at Essex - from studying Law, living on campus, best study places or just what the food’s like here. I’m happy to chat!!

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    Hi, I am Charlotte, a third year politics with human rights student. I am also a member of the Student Union trustee board and a student representative alongside my studies, so I am very immersed in the student life here and more than happy to answer any and all questions you may have. I love to go out and I’m always attending the nightlife events on campus (maybe a little too much)! I am currently treasurer for the sustainable students society so if there’s anything you would be interested to know about societies, I can always let you know. I’m very friendly and bubbly so don’t be afraid to ask anything, no questions are silly.

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    Hi, I’m Ann, a third year biomedical student with a keen interest in cancer biology. I plan to continue my studies in the future and am happy to share my experiences and help fellow students navigate university life, from academics to beyond!

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    Heyy👋🏻, I am Amaia from the UK. I am studying MSc Physiotherapy at University of Essex (Year 2). I enjoy learning about anatomy, biomechanics, nutrition and rehabilitation. I am passionate about Sport and Exercise Science, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, and Rehabilitation. Feel free to ask me questions about uni, my course, or any other queries you may have. Looking forward to chatting with you :))

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    I am an international student from Portugal, I have completed my BSc Economics at Essex. Once I completed my course i have worked 2 years as a Student Recruiter where I would travel around England to bring brand awareness. I decided to start my masters in FinTech in October 2025.

  • Callum

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    I am a final-year student at the University of Essex's Colchester campus, so I have had a very long time here to come to know a lot of things about this place. Over my three years, I have had a broad range of experiences that university has to offer, from getting involved in sports and societies, to using the careers services, to completing a paid internship in a subject related to my degree. Applying to university, I knew that I wanted to study modern languages, but didn't study a language at A-Level, which definitely threw a spanner into a lot of things. As a 16/17 year old, I just didn't think that far ahead in my life- which is normal. I am living proof that, to an extent, this does not need to be the end of your plans to go to uni. As for me as an individual, I am interested in art and music- which I also make, and I also enjoy hiking, cycling and swimming on occassion. I'm also on the autistic spectrum. After graduating this year, my plan is to go and do a year working in a Spanish school, and then hopefully come back home and do a course on TEFL, all of which the academic staff are supporting me to do.

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  • Caitlyn

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Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

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