Msc Biotechnology (with optional Placement/Project year)

2 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Chester

Program Overview

The MSc Biotechnology at Chester is designed for students who want to turn their passion for science into real-world solutions. You’ll gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge lab techniques while exploring how biotechnology is transforming medicine, agriculture, and the environment, making this course perfect for aspiring researchers, innovators, or entrepreneurs.

Curriculum Structure

In your studies, you’ll start with taught modules that blend theory and practical skills. For instance, Applied Molecular Biology allows you to get hands-on with DNA extraction, PCR, electrophoresis, and protein purification, giving you the technical foundation every biotech professional needs. Emerging Molecular Therapies in Medicine introduces you to CRISPR gene editing, monoclonal antibodies, and RNA interference, with workshops that let you design guide RNAs yourself.

You’ll also explore Biotechnological Approaches towards Sustainable Development Goals, connecting molecular techniques to global challenges like environmental sustainability and climate change. In Biomimetic Nanotechnology, you’ll discover how nature-inspired nanoscale designs can solve modern biotech problems.

The Business of Biotechnology module adds an entrepreneurial twist, teaching you innovation strategies and how to develop biotech ventures from the ground up — giving you both scientific and business skills.

Finally, you’ll complete a Research Dissertation where you design and carry out your own project under expert supervision. If you choose the two-year option, this is replaced by a Professional Project or Placement, providing invaluable industry experience and real-world insight.

Focus Areas

“Molecular biology, medical biotechnology, environmental biotech, nanobiotechnology, biotechnology enterprise”

Learning Outcomes

“You’ll master key lab techniques, understand how biotechnology addresses real-world challenges, plan and execute independent research projects, and gain the business know-how to contribute to industry or launch your own biotech venture.”

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This MSc is designed with industry relevance in mind, equipping you with the technical and strategic skills that biotech, pharmaceutical, environmental, and start-up companies value most.

Reputation / Employability

Chester’s MSc ensures you graduate ready to make an impact. With applied problem-solving, extensive lab work, and a research or professional project, you’ll leave with highly sought-after skills that open doors in both research and industry.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Chester, you don’t just study biotechnology — you get to experience it firsthand. From day one, you’ll be working in purpose-built labs, handling real experiments, and developing practical skills that are directly relevant to careers in biotech. The course also gives you the option of a professional placement or project year, so you can gain valuable industry experience and build your network.

Here’s how your hands-on learning will happen:

State-of-the-Art Laboratories – Work in over 20 labs equipped for molecular biology, microbiology, genetics, and broader biotechnology experiments.
Modern Analytical Equipment – Gain experience with HPLC, GC‑MS, UV-Vis spectrophotometers, and other essential tools for studying biomolecules.
Thornton Science Park Facilities – Access advanced lab spaces, computer suites, scientific software, and a dedicated science library to support your research.
Molecular Biology Techniques – Practice with PCR, gel electrophoresis, and protein analysis instruments to master core laboratory skills.
Research Project & Placement – Undertake an independent lab-based dissertation under expert supervision or, if on the two-year route, complete a professional project or industry placement.
Active Research Community – Collaborate with faculty engaged in cutting-edge research across environmental, microbial, plant, and animal biotechnology.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from Chester’s MSc in Biotechnology opens doors to a range of exciting career paths. You could work as a biotech researcher, product development scientist, environmental biotech specialist, or even start your own venture in the biotech sector. The combination of hands-on lab experience and business-focused modules equips you with the skills that employers in both industry and academia highly value.

Here’s how Chester helps you get there:

Careers & Employability Support – The University’s Careers & Employability team offers one-on-one guidance, CV and interview coaching, and lifetime access to resources to help you land your ideal role.
Strong Graduate Outcomes – Around 90% of graduates go on to work or further study, with a significant proportion in high-skilled roles.
Professional Placement & Project Option – Opt for the two-year route to gain real-world industry experience through a placement or professional project.
Entrepreneurial & Business Skills – Modules like Business of Biotechnology and programs like Chester’s Venture Programme help you develop and commercialize biotech ideas.
Long-Term Skill Value – You’ll leave with practical lab techniques, research design expertise, data analysis skills, and business know-how — all highly transferable to careers in R&D, biotech firms, or environmental biotech.
Ongoing Graduate Support – Chester continues to support you after graduation with career advice, job listings, and alumni networking opportunities.
Employer Connections – Access to a network of over 500 local and national employers helps you build professional connections early.

Further Academic Progression:
If research is your passion, this MSc provides an excellent foundation for a PhD in biotechnology, molecular biology, or environmental biotech. Your hands-on dissertation and lab experience will make you well-prepared to dive into advanced research and contribute to cutting-edge scientific discoveries.