Postgraduate Courses
  • Students are to follow the requirements of the Handbook for the year they commenced the course.

    However, the subject links below do not contain the subject information for the current year. You can view current subject information through the new Course Handbook.

Master of Science (Biotechnology)

The course information on this page is for new students commencing their degree in 2016 only. 

Students should follow the rules and requirements for the year that they commenced their course. The online course information for years prior to 2016 are available from the Archives link in the menu.

Students should also review current subject availabilities via the Subject Descriptions link in the menu.

The Master of Science (Biotechnology) is designed for graduates who seek knowledge and technological expertise in specific areas of cell and molecular biology, which is the basis for modern biotechnological research and development.

Subjects give an introduction to the basic elements of modern cell and molecular biology before proceeding to intensive training in current biotechnology and its application to the fields of medicine, agriculture and molecular biology.

Tutorials and laboratory-based practical work will be undertaken in each of the subjects, and students have the opportunity to explore new technology developed in the field of study.

The program also includes 24 credit points of additional preparatory subjects focussing on laboratory work and science communication skills. Candidates with appropriate qualifications and laboratory skills may be awarded advanced standing for these subjects.

Course Learning Outcomes

Students graduating from the Master of Science (Biotechnology) will be able to:

  1. Consolidate knowledge about recent developments in biotechnology and an appreciation of concepts and perspectives associated with biotechnology.
  2. Consolidate laboratory skills in biotechnology and an appreciation of how these skills are applied in research.
  3. Critically evaluate and synthesise knowledge of research principles and methods pertinent to biotechnology in particular in cell biology, molecular biology, bio informatics and biotechnology.
  4. Investigate, analyse and synthesise information, problems, concepts and theories.
  5. Apply, generate and evaluate theories, methodologies and concepts.
  6. Exercise critical thinking and reflection.
  7. Justify, interpret and communicate hypotheses, methodologies and conclusions.
  8. Develop and apply knowledge and skills in planning and executing a substantial research-based initiative appropriate for professional practice and/or further learning. 

Course Structure

The Master of Science (Biotechnology) requires the successful completion of 72 credit points of subjects from the table below.

Subject Code Subject Name Credit Points Session(s)
SCIE911 Fundamentals of Science Communication 6 Autumn, Spring
SCIE913 Fundamentals of Science Data 6 Autumn, Spring
SCIE914 Current Questions in Science 6 Autumn, Spring
BIOL980 Biotechnology 12 Autumn
BIOL981 Molecular Cell Biology 12 Autumn
BIOL982 Infection and Immunity 12 Spring
BIOL984 Applied Bioinformatics 12 Spring
Plus one of the following subjects   
BIOL813 Principles in Biochemistry 6 Autumn
OR   
BIOL815 Introductory Genetics 6 Spring
Alternative Options
The following subjects may be substituted for one or more of the core subjects after consultation with the Course Coordinator.
BIOL991 Major Research Project 24 Annual, Autumn, Spring, Summer
BIOL992 Literature Review Project 12 Annual, Autumn, Spring, Summer
BIOL993 Research Project 12 Annual, Autumn, Spring, Summer

Credit Arrangements

Credit and articulation arrangements are available from the Course Finder. Refer to UOW's credit arrangements for information on how to apply for credit.

Other Information

Further information is available at:
UOW Course Finder
Email: smah-students@uow.edu.au

Last reviewed: 13 April, 2016