Biotechnology BSc
Study of how biological systems, organisms, and molecular processes can be applied to develop technologies and products that improve health, industry, agriculture, and the environment.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in science and technology
Enjoy lab work
Want a career in biotech
Like innovation
Are analytical
Popular Career Fields
Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
Research & Academia
Healthcare & Public Health
Food & Beverage Industry
Your Personality Might Be:
Innovative thinker
Research & Academia
Detail-oriented
Problem-solver
What is it?
What is a Biotechnology degree?
Biotechnology is an applied life-science degree that uses biology, chemistry, and technology to solve real-world problems.
You’ll study how living cells and biological molecules can be manipulated and engineered to create medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, sustainable materials, and industrial processes.
The degree combines molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, and bioengineering, with strong emphasis on laboratory techniques and innovation.
It is ideal for students interested in science with clear practical, commercial, and societal impact.
Why study Biotechnology?
Biotechnology sits at the cutting edge of scientific innovation.
Studying this degree helps you understand:
How biological discoveries are turned into real products
How biotechnology supports medicine, sustainability, and food security
How genetics and molecular biology underpin modern industry
How science and technology drive economic growth and innovation
It is particularly suited to students who enjoy applied science and want strong career prospects beyond academia.
Course Summary
Study of how biological systems, organisms, and molecular processes can be applied to develop technologies and products that improve health, industry, agriculture, and the environment.
What you'll study
Most Biotechnology degrees include studying:
Molecular and cellular biology
Genetics and genetic engineering
Biochemistry and enzymology
Microbiology and fermentation
Bioprocessing and bioengineering
Research methods, data analysis, and bioinformatics
Skills You'll Gain
An Biotechnology degree builds strong academic and scientific skills including:
Laboratory and technical skills – including molecular cloning, cell culture, and analytical techniques.
Data analysis and problem-solving – interpreting experimental results and optimising processes.
Scientific communication – writing reports and presenting technical findings clearly.
Innovation and applied thinking – translating biological knowledge into practical solutions.
Scientific reasoning and problem-solving – supporting evidence-based conclusions.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Biotechnology graduates work across science, healthcare, industry, and innovation sectors.
Common Job Titles
Biotechnologist
Laboratory Scientist or Technician
Research Assistant
Quality Control Analyst
Process Development Scientist
Clinical Research Associate
Work Experiences & Placements
Many Biotechnology degrees strongly encourage or include industrial placements or year-in-industry options, reflecting the applied nature of the field.
Universities often have partnerships with biotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, research institutes, and start-ups.
Typical work experience opportunities include:
Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies
Research and development laboratories
Clinical or diagnostic laboratories
Food, agriculture, or environmental biotech organisations
Quality control, regulatory, or manufacturing settings
Students may also gain experience through summer internships, research assistant roles, or industry-led projects. Work experience significantly improves employability and helps students understand commercial and regulatory contexts.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels (or equivalent) typically including Biology, often Chemistry
Personal Statement Tips
Show enthusiasm for applied biology and real-world science.
Mention specific interests such as genetic engineering, vaccines, or sustainability.
Highlight laboratory work, science projects, or relevant work experience.
Demonstrate problem-solving ability, curiosity, and attention to detail.
What to do Next
Look for courses offering placement or year-in-industry options.
Gain laboratory or research experience where possible.
Follow developments in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and sustainability.
Consider whether you prefer medical, industrial, or environmental applications.
Wider Reading
The Gene – Siddhartha Mukherjee
A powerful history of genetics and its role in modern biotechnology.Genome – Matt Ridley
An accessible exploration of how genes shape biology and behaviour.Regenesis – George Church & Ed Regis
A look at synthetic biology and the future of bioengineering.I Contain Multitudes – Ed Yong
A fascinating insight into microbes and their biotechnological importance.Biotechnology for Beginners – Reinhard Renneberg
A clear introduction to biotechnology concepts and applications.