MSc Environmental Biotechnology: University of Westminster

Introduction

This course will provide you with knowledge and understanding in the rapidly developing field of Environmental Biotechnology. The course will explore the underlying scientific principles of how biotechnology can be used to address current environmental issues as well as how this can impact on environmental policy both nationally and internationally. It will allow you to follow particular subject-specific interests through your optional module choices. Students graduating from this course will have subject specific skills and knowledge integrating science with technology, business and policy issues. You will also gain research experience at the post-graduate level and develop a range of communication and other skills that will enhance your employment and/or further postgraduate education prospects.

Course Content

Core Modules:

• Bioprocess Technology 1
• Biotechnology and Business
• Bioprocess Design
• Environmental Biotechnology
• Environmental Policy
• Critical Review and Design Study
• Research project

Option modules:

• Bioprocess Technology 2
• Recent Advances in Biotechnology

Teaching and Assessment

The course features a variety of teaching methods and approaches, including a mixture of formal lectures, practicals, tutorials and student centred learning activities.

Essays, assessed structured debates, poster presentations, oral presentations, exams and reports in the form of short scientific communications are all components of the assessment strategy.

Associated Careers

Students graduating from this course will have subject specific skills and knowledge regarding the integration of science with technology and business within the field of Environmental Biotechnology. The course is aimed at those aspiring to be researchers and managers within the Environmental biotechnology sector e.g. in Water Resource Management or would be working in the broad field of environmental management, waste recycling, bioengineering and consultancy (including those working for national and international regulatory agencies). During the course you will develop a range of transferable skills that may be used to enhance your employment prospects and/ or further your research opportunities in the UK or overseas.

Entry Requirements

You must possess at least a BSc Honours degree in biological sciences, biotechnology, biochemical engineering, environmental sciences, or in a closely related discipline, or a professional qualification of equivalent status and associated work experience, a Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma in a biotechnology related subject, or an equivalent qualification that is deemed suitable by the course team.

If your first language is not English you should normally have attained the equivalent of an IELTS score of at least 6.5, with a minimum score of 6 in the writing component; or TOEFL (paper) score of at least 600 plus TOEFL written test at Grade 4.5 or above; TOEFL (computer based test) of at least 250; or Cambridge Proficiency, Grade B. Please note that when the course commences, during induction all students who do not have English as their first language will complete both Academic English screening and any resulting recommended Academic English support activity provided.