Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (Taught)

The MSc in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics will provide students with in-depth training in key life sciences, including bioinformatics, that are central to modern biotechnology and the genomics revolution and will prepare graduates for employment in this growing sector. The growth in the industrial biotechnology and biopharmaceutical sectors has led to exciting career opportunities for experienced graduates. Our MSc in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics is a unique opportunity to gain training in advanced biotechnology and bioinformatics. There is also an option to select training in bio-business and the commercialisation of scientific ideas.

The University of Aberdeen has an impressive reputation for producing successful spin-out companies in the broad area of biotechnology and pharmacology. This MSc has harnessed these skills to provide you with an understanding of the key scientific skills, including advanced biotechnology, centrally important for employment in this sector.

This MSc is ideal for graduates in life science, pharmacy and medical biosciences who want to improve their career prospects, widen their knowledge base linked to biotechnology and their own scientific interests, and are fascinated by the application of advanced bioinformatic techniques.

Course Modules

The teaching of our MSc Biotechnology and Bioinformatics programme is lecture based with self-directed learning, practical classes and tutorials to support the lecture material. In the second semester students have a unique opportunity to individually sequence and analyse the entire genome of a microorganism isolated and characterised by themselves. External experts are also regularly invited to provide specialist expertise.

Many lectures are recorded and can be viewed again when required. The MSc makes the most of hands-on learning to enable repeated exposure to evidence-based practice using real life examples. Much of the teaching on this course is participatory and you are expected to consolidate all taught content by completing related tasks and activities and engaging in independent study in your own time.

By practical work, by written essays and by oral presentations, or by a combination of these, as prescribed for each course. The project or placement will be assessed on the basis of performance, written thesis or report, and oral presentation (project only) or reflective analysis (placement only). Candidates must pass all courses at an appropriate standard for the award of the MSc degree.