Biotechnology: University of Westminster

Introduction

Biotechnology draws upon biochemistry, microbiology, genetics and biochemical engineering to create products and services from biological organisms. People’s lives have been influenced by biotechnology for centuries, through the use of micro-organisms to produce food and drink. The large-scale production of antibiotics has revolutionised healthcare, and biotechnology has now entered a new and exciting phase with the advent of molecular biology and molecular genetics.

Recent possibilities for medical applications, such as gene therapy and gene diagnosis, deserve wider consideration than the purely scientific, and the course aims to promote interest in ethical and societal issues. Scientists with a broad educational background will deliver developments in biotechnology, whether in the areas of new environmental treatment processes or the production of previously unavailable human hormones.

Course Content

The course will provide you with a grounding in areas fundamental to many bioscience disciplines as well as an understanding of biochemistry, biotechnology, microbiology and molecular genetics. The option modules allow you to follow your particular interests in the various aspects of biotechnology.

Associated Careers

There is a need for graduate biotechnologists in the UK and overseas. The combination of skills and knowledge obtained also provides a sound background for a wide range of opportunities for employment or further study to MSc or PhD level.

Entry Requirements

• Qualification type Grade/points
• A Levels CCD to include CC in Science subjects
• International Baccalaureate 26 points to include a minimum of 5 in two Higher Level Science subjects
• BTEC National Diploma/Certificate MMP/DM in Science