MSc Biotechnology

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Greenwich

Program Overview

The MSc Biotechnology at the University of Greenwich is designed for students who want to work at the cutting edge of modern bioscience. You’ll explore everything from gene therapy and genomics to proteomics and bioinformatics, gaining the scientific depth and hands-on confidence needed for roles in research, biotech development, and the broader life-science industries.

Curriculum Structure

What you’ll study

Throughout the programme, you’ll move through a clear and practical learning journey that blends scientific theory with real laboratory experience:

Early in the course, you’ll build a strong foundation in molecular biology, chemistry, and cellular systems. Modules such as Genomics and Proteomics, Gene Therapy, and Advanced Biotechnology give you a deep understanding of how biological mechanisms can be analysed, engineered, and used to create new technologies.
As you progress, you’ll dive into bioinformatics, learning how to work with genomic and protein-level datasets and apply digital tools to solve biotechnological challenges. These modules help you understand how modern biotech companies make data-driven decisions.
Towards the end of the programme, you’ll take on a major Research Project. This is your chance to specialise in an area that excites you — such as pharmaceutical biotechnology — and apply everything you’ve learned in a real research setting. If you focus your project in this area, you can graduate with a Pharmaceutical Biotechnology endorsement.

Focus areas

gene therapy, genomics, proteomics, genetic engineering, bioinformatics, pharmaceutical biotechnology

Learning outcomes

gain advanced laboratory expertise, interpret complex ’omics data, design and evaluate biotech products, and work confidently on independent research projects

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The programme isn’t tied to a specific accrediting body, but it is closely shaped by industry needs. Lectures are delivered by scientists with experience at major companies such as GSK, Pfizer, and Merck, ensuring what you learn reflects real-world practice.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Greenwich holds a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2023), recognising outstanding teaching quality and strong graduate outcomes. Students benefit from industry-informed modules and research opportunities that support careers in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, environmental science, and biotechnology.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

What really stands out about the MSc Biotechnology at the University of Greenwich is how quickly you move from learning concepts to actually doing the science. You won’t just read about molecular techniques — you’ll be in the Medway Campus labs using them, working with real equipment and real biological materials. The course is built around practical sessions, workshops, and an in-depth research project, giving you the confidence to handle everything from cell culture to PCR analysis like a professional.

And because the university keeps its lab groups small, you get more hands-on time and closer support from teaching staff. Everything you learn is directly connected to the biotech industry, from understanding how products are developed to exploring the ethical questions behind new technologies.

Here’s how your experience comes to life:

Work in advanced bioscience labs: You’ll train in specialist facilities with class II biosafety cabinets and CO₂ incubators as you learn how to grow, maintain, and manipulate different types of cells.
Use industry-standard equipment: You’ll work directly with tools used across modern biotech — including QuantStudio 3 real-time PCR machines and PCR amplification systems for analysing DNA and RNA.
Complete a major research project: Your 60-credit project lets you dive deep into an area you truly care about. You can choose a lab-based project or take a placement in a biotech or pharmaceutical setting to gain real industry exposure.
Explore the business side of biotech: Through the Business & Enterprise module, you’ll discover how new biotech products are created, from innovation and design all the way to commercialisation.
Develop your scientific judgement: The Research Methods & Bioethics module helps you think critically about decision-making in science, covering topics like data interpretation, biosafety, and the social impact of biotechnology.
Learn in small, supportive groups: Laboratory sessions are capped at around 20 students, meaning more personalised guidance and more time actually working with equipment.
Build teamwork and communication skills: Through group workshops and collaborative assignments, you’ll develop the skills needed to work effectively in research teams or industry environments.

Progression & Future Opportunities

When you finish this MSc at NTU, you’ll be ready to take on careers like R&D Scientist, Bioprocess Engineer, Antibody Specialist, or Biotech Project Manager — because you’ll have the lab know-how, bioprocess understanding, and business skills to succeed. Thanks to the hands-on training and your research project, employers in biotech, pharma, and research labs will see you as a well-prepared and versatile candidate.

Here’s how NTU helps you build your future — and the kinds of paths graduates actually go down:

How the University Supports Your Career
- NTU’s Careers & Employability Service helps you plan your next move, work on your CV, practise interview skills, and connect with potential employers in biotech.
- Through NTU Enterprise, you get support if you want to spin your scientific ideas into a business — developing real biotech concepts and learning how to pitch them.
University–Industry Connections
- The MSc has strong ties to the biotech industry, including placements, projects, and network opportunities that align with how companies actually operate.
- These partnerships give you a realistic view into how biotech R&D and product development really works in companies.
Long-Term Value
- This degree gives you both deep scientific competence — from molecular biology to cell culture — and soft skills like research design, ethics, and commercialization.
- Your experience doing a major research project means you graduate with real, demonstrable experience, not just a degree on paper.
Graduation Outcomes
- Many graduates go on to roles in biotech companies, including R&D and production.
- Others choose to continue studying or move into leadership or innovation-focused roles thanks to their understanding of both science and business.

Further Academic Progression:
If you decide to stay in academia, this MSc sets you up very well for PhD study in areas like molecular biology, synthetic biology, or industrial biotechnology. The research project you complete during the course will give you the experience and confidence needed to apply for and succeed in doctoral programs.