Biotechnology - MSc
Explore cutting-edge solutions in healthcare, food security, and therapeutics while developing crucial innovation, intellectual property, and commercialisation expertise on our Biotechnology MSc. You'll complete your degree with a research project and the skills to prepare you for leadership in biotechnology's rapidly evolving landscape.
Month of entry
- September
Mode of study
- Full time
Fees for 2026/27 academic year
- UK - Full time £9,400 per year.
International - £18,200 per year.
Duration of study
- 1 year full time
This course is no longer accepting applications from international students for the 2025/26 academic year.
Why study Biotechnology at Keele University?
Course summary
Our MSc in Biotechnology provides an in-depth journey through the science, real-world applications, and commercial dimensions of biotechnology, with a focus on our specialist strengths in vector control, glycosciences, pest management, infectious diseases, and plant health.
Throughout the programme, you will learn how to be a biotechnologist and gain a deep understanding of the scope and impact of biotechnology in addressing major global challenges. You'll take part in a multidisciplinary module on scientific leadership and innovation alongside students from other disciplines, before diving into specialised content on advanced biotechnology applications in areas such as healthcare, diagnostics, therapeutics, and food security.
You will also develop essential business and innovation competencies, including identifying inventive opportunities, evaluating intellectual property, and understanding routes to commercialisation.
A key part of the programme involves designing and evaluating your own biotechnological solutions to issues in human nutrition, health, and disease - taking into account relevant regulatory and ethical frameworks. You'll have the opportunity to pitch your ideas for potential innovation and undertake a major research project.
Alongside the core programme, you will build advanced skills in using computational tools to support biotechnology research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. You'll also develop critical thinking, effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to analyse and evaluate primary scientific literature.
Your academic journey concludes with an independent research project, offering you the chance to design and carry out an in-depth investigation in a Biotechnology field that aligns with our research strengths. This includes developing a comprehensive research strategy, building expertise in a variety of advanced laboratory and/or computational techniques and delivering your findings at a mini student-conference.
Seminars
Within the School of Life Sciences there are a wide range of seminar opportunities that attract a number of expert researchers both locally (e.g., Keele University, hospitals or research groups) and internationally from around the world.
Course structure
Biotechnology MSc can be studied full-time, over one year, with a September start date. As a full-time student, you will complete five compulsory modules (including the Masters Research Project).
Modules
The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.
Compulsory modules
Concepts in Biotechnology (30 credits)
Concepts in Biotechnology will introduce you to the different colours (or themes) of biotechnology and how biotechnology can tackle some of the Grand Challenges faced by society, including (for example) cancer, infection, food security, global warming and vector control. You will also gain detailed insight into the molecules of life and how biotechnology has been used to create new tools, interventions, diagnostics and therapeutics. You will also develop skills devising a molecular cloning strategy in an area of biotechnology.
Scientific Leadership and Innovation (30 credits)
This module will focus on key professional competencies, equipping you with knowledge, insight and frameworks to identify emerging issues in the field, develop innovative solutions and lead on new scientific endeavours. We take a discussion-based approach to delivery, using case studies and lived experiences to develop a keen understanding of ethics, leadership and project management. The assessment strategy provides you an opportunity to pursue an area of interest and demonstrate your commitment to continued professional development and communities of practice.
Biotechnology Interventions, Diagnostics and Therapeutics (30 credits)
This module will introduce you to various applications of biotechnology, with a focus on health and disease. Examples of biotechnology will be introduced by researchers from different fields. You will identify problems in need of biotechnological solutions and critically appraise real world applications of biotech. You will demonstrate well-informed opinions on applications of biotechnology and its utility to address real world issues. You will have an opportunity to develop laboratory skills relevant to biotechnology, underpinning your future research project.
Invention, Strategy and Enterprise (30 credits)
This module will focus on key professional competencies, equipping you with the knowledge, insight and frameworks needed to navigate issues surrounding commercial innovation in biotechnology with a focusing on health and disease. You will explore the different pathways from proof-of-concept through to exit deals and the various risks and challenges along the way. You will develop skills in critically evaluating scientific and market literature with elements of group work/teamwork with business & entrepreneurial skills as a key focus.
Masters Research Project (60 credits)
In this module you will undertake a significant research project. Projects could include lab-based research; data analysis or a systematic review. You will develop higher-level skills in the critical evaluation of a wide body of scientific literature and in the appraisal of your research outcomes. The module culminates with a mini student-conference, where you will meet your colleagues, present your main findings, and evidence key skills in the dissemination of research outcomes in different formats (research poster and oral presentation).
Entry requirements
The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don't see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications.
Typical offer
Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.
Please select your country from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information
UK
2:2 degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bangladesh
60% in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject from a public university
or
CGPA 2.8 in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject from a private university
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
We don’t accept degrees from certain universities, please see our Bangladesh Country Page for more information
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Canada
70% or C or a GPA of 2.5 in a degree (Ordinary or Honours) in a biomedical, pharmacology or bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), related subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
China
70% in a degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
65% in a degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject from a '211' university
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Ghana
Second class degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
India
55% or CGPA 6/10 in a degree of at least 3 years in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kenya
Second class degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nepal
60% / 2.4 in a 4-year Bachelor's degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
65% / CGPA 2.8 in a 3-year Bachelor's degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nigeria
Second class degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pakistan
We accept a range of qualifications from Pakistan. Please visit our Pakistan Country Page for more information
or we will consider demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need an English language qualification (see below)
South Africa
Second class division 2 / 60% in a Bachelor's degree with Honours in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
Second class division 1 / 70% in an Ordinary Bachelor's degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Sri Lanka
55% in a Special Bachelor's degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Uganda
Second class degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Zimbabwe
Second class degree in a bioscience (Biochemistry, Biology, Biomedical Science), medical, or pharmacology related subject
or
demonstrated professional or relevant qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
English language requirements
All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group C.
References
Normally, you will need to provide at least one academic reference to support your application unless you have been out of study longer than two years. If it has been more than two years since you last studied on a degree-level programme, you will normally need to provide an employment reference instead. For more information about Academic References, please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages.
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose
Please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages for guidance on what to include in your personal statement.
Recognition of Prior Learning
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which enables applicants to receive recognition and formal credit for learning acquired in the past through formal study or work and life experiences.
RPL can also be requested for admission onto the start of a programme in lieu of the admission requirements. For more information, see our Recognition of Prior Learning web pages.
Professional qualifications and work experience
The majority of our courses will consider relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications at the appropriate level, as an alternative to an undergraduate degree for entry. The work experience should be for a sustained period and at a suitable level, based within a relevant sector to your chosen course.
Admissions staff will review your work experience and/or professional qualifications during the assessment of your application to ensure suitability in terms of relevancy, level and appropriate learning outcomes.
General information
The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application. For international students, find out how we work with approved agents as part of our admissions process.
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Postgraduate funding and scholarships
Funding
Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, our dedicated financial support team is here to help.
We are committed to rewarding excellence and potential. Please visit our scholarships and bursaries webpage for more information.
Please note, if your course offers a January start date, the January 2026 start date falls in the 2025/26 academic year. Please see the tuition fees archive for the 2025/26 fees.
Planning your funding
It's important to plan carefully for your funding before you start your course. Please be aware that not all postgraduate courses and not all students are eligible for the UK government postgraduate loans and, in some cases, you would be expected to source alternative funding yourself. If you need support researching your funding options, please contact our financial support team.
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
Additional costs
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching
Diversity, flexibility and inclusivity is at the heart of our Education Strategy. Your Student Voice helps us to shape what we do and we include students, local employers and professional bodies in our decision-making process.
The delivery of our programme will include the following types of activities:
Campus-based tutorials and workshops - Tutorials and workshops foster community, support peer learning, and deepen your understanding through discussion and reflection. Other workshops will also support data analysis and report writing, including IT literacy, as well as helping you in developing skills in computational and bioinformatic analysis, including in context to drug-target binding.
Case-based learning (CBL) tutorials - Case-based learning (CBL) is a student-centred style, based on case studies that help you contextualise content taught across the course. These sessions aim to develop skills such as leadership, communication and evidence-based problem solving.
Live, online tutorials, workshops and drop-in sessions are often used to host plenary sessions. These plenary sessions are optional, added value and may cover topics common to all students such as career planning and general Q&A sessions.
Independent study is based on directed reading from text books, research papers and research reviews to support your learning of the core material and deepen your understanding of the subject.
Digital learning resources include short videos and readings that support key learning outcomes and enhance active, application-based learning through a flipped classroom approach. This also gives you more flexibility to decide how, when and where to study, with the opportunity to submit questions based on the material anonymously in advance of taught sessions.
Assessment
From performing risk assessments of a biotechnology application to using advanced communication skills to convince potential investors in a biotechnology idea - you will benefit from a rich and varied assessment strategy to develop key employability and academic skills.
You will be assessed via:
Individual and group tasks reflect how, in the work environment, you may be required to solve problems in a relatively short amount of time. These tasks will help you to further evidence your understanding of pre-set problems within specialist topics areas and consolidate your learning, evidencing your ability to tackle problems in a time constrained, and independent manner.
The extended research project provides an opportunity for you to put together a number of key learning outcomes and take responsibility for the formulation, management, execution, and final interpretation and presentation of a new piece of scientific research in an area of biotechnology related to health and disease.
Conference presentation and research poster - You will communicate the main findings of your research to your peers and tutors, and have the opportunity to present and defend a research poster at our annual postgraduate conference.
