The MSc Biotechnology programme provides students with the opportunity to develop advanced theoretical knowledge, understanding, and practical experience of modern molecular and systems biology approaches to emerging biotechnologies.
The course is designed to provide a grounding in core biotechnology, alongside specialist training in medical, industrial, environmental, and fermentation biotechnology, with the opportunity to complete a research project within one of these areas.
Staff within the School of Life Sciences offer a wide range of expertise in a variety of disciplines including molecular, cell, and system biology, recombinant DNA technology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, fermentation, bioengineering, among many others. Students may also have opportunities to hear from external guest speakers working in the industry and other schools from across the University.
Please note that this course is only available in the full-time format.
How You Study
The programme includes a combination of lectures, workshops, laboratory practicals, IT classes, seminars, problem-based learning group sessions, independent learning, and research projects. There is also an emphasis on the development of professional and research skills, which can enhance employability.
The first and second terms focus on introductory and specialist modules. Over the summer, students can progress to an independent research project within a biotechnology-related discipline.
The postgraduate level study involves a significant proportion of independent study, exploring the material covered in lectures and seminars. For every hour spent in class, students are expected to spend at least two to three hours in an independent study. For more detailed information please contact the Programme Leader.
Contact Hours
Owing to the nature of postgraduate programmes, a significant proportion of your time will be spent in independent study and research. Research students will have meetings with their academic supervisors, however, the regularity of these will vary depending on individual requirements, subject area, staff availability, and the stage of the programme. For taught programmes, weekly contact hours may vary depending on the individual module options chosen and the stage of the study.
Methods of Assessment
The way you will be assessed on your course will vary depending on the subject and the type of postgraduate programme you select. A taught programme could include a written dissertation, exams, presentations, and projects. A research programme could include a thesis, oral examination, and presentation to a group of research academics. You may be expected to demonstrate how your research findings have contributed to knowledge or developed existing theory or understanding. Please see the individual course pages to find out more.
Modules
Fermentation Biotechnology (Core)
Identification of Infectious Diseases (Core)
Independent Research Project (Core)
Industrial and Environmental Microbiology (Core)
Molecular Biotechnology (Core)
Professional and Research Skills in the Biosciences (Core)
The Microbial World (Core)
How You Are Assessed
Assessment is mainly conducted through coursework including literature reviews, problem papers, oral and poster presentations, and ultimately the preparation of a research dissertation for the research project. There is limited use of examinations/in-class tests.
Specific guidance on each assessment is provided and the programme includes specific training for the main type of assessment.
Assessment Feedback
The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to students promptly – usually within 15 working days of the submission date.
Scholarships
There are more ways than ever before to fund your postgraduate study, whether you want to do a taught or research course. For those wishing to undertake a Master's course, you can apply for a loan as a contribution towards the course and living costs. Loans are also available to those who wish to undertake doctoral study. The University offers a number of scholarships and funded studentships for those interested in postgraduate study.
"Studying the Biotechnology Master's at the University of Lincoln made me more confident in independent research. It was the perfect progression from an undergraduate course in terms of critical thinking and problem solving, but with support available when needed."
Imogen Napper, MSc Biotechnology graduate
Entry Requirements 2021-22
First or second class honours degree in a relevant subject.
If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages for information on equivalent qualifications.
EU and Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page.
If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.
Teaching and Learning During Covid-19
At Lincoln, Covid-19 has encouraged us to review our practices and, as a result, to take the opportunity to find new ways to enhance the student experience. We have made changes to our teaching and learning approach and to our campus, to ensure that students and staff can enjoy a safe and positive learning experience. We will continue to follow Government guidance and work closely with the local Public Health experts as the situation progresses, and adapt our teaching and learning accordingly to keep our campus as safe as possible.
Research Project and Topics
Independent research projects are often linked to research specialisms within the School of Life Sciences. These include microbiology and biotechnology, cancer and aging, evolution and ecology, diabetes, metabolism and inflammation, and animal behaviour cognition and welfare.
Career Opportunities
The biotechnology industry recruits qualified individuals for a broad range of roles, from sales and marketing to research and development, manufacturing, and quality control and assurance.
Research and diagnostic laboratories, either public or private, also recruit individuals with advanced knowledge on current biotechnology aspects and who are trained in modern biotechnology techniques.
To help enhance employability, students are able to access training and support to develop a broad range of professional and research skills, including science communication and dissemination, scientific writing, and career planning.
