1.
Programme or Pathway Title, & Award
MSc Biotechnology
2.
UCAS or Other
Admissions Code
Not applicable
3.
Northumbria
Programme Code
BTN6 14FBIO-N/14PBIO-N
4.
Mode of Delivery
On Site
YES
Distance Learning
Distance Delivery
5.
Mode of Attendance
Full Time
YES
Sandwich
Part Time
6.
Location of Delivery
Northumbria
YES
Other UK please
specify
YES
Overseas please
specify
7.
Collaborative Provision if applicable
Franchised
Validated
Joint
Dual
Partner Institution
8.
Date(s) of Approval/ Review
9.
QAA Subject Benchmark Group
NA
10.
PSRB accreditation if applicable
NA
11.
Educational Aims of the Programme
Biotechnology is one of the most rapidly growing fields within applied sciences, having applications from the diagnosis and treatment of
medical conditions, through to the enhancement of food production. Due to the potential impact on human life, the importance of
biotechnology is currently very high in both the public and scientific agendas. The main focus of the programme will be on 'molecular
biotechnology', which includes the themes of applied molecular biology and bioinformatics. There is an emphasis on laboratory-scale
biotechnology and the course will foster an awareness of biotechnological applications e.g. food production, livestock breeding, medicine
including new development in stem cell research, and different industrial applications of biotechnology. In addition to developing subjectbased expertise and skills, consideration of the many global issues associated with recent biotechnological advances will ensure that this
programme is relevant to an international community of students as well as providing home students with access to a field of study which
will have a major impact in the future of science.
The MSc Biotechnology programme is specifically designed to allow students to apply first degree scientific knowledge to develop their
understanding of the science underpinning biotechnological principles. Recent and relevant biotechnological research is at the core of the
programme, and the study, analysis and/or practical application of such research is incorporated in all modules in the programme. The
programme will enhance students’ career opportunities in the biotechnological industries, enabling them to take full advantage of
opportunities that will ensue from the expansion of this area and/or prepare students for further academic research.
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12.
Aims
The programme aims to:
produce postgraduates who can apply scientific knowledge and principles to produce informed creative solutions relevant to
biotechnological industry.
develop a critical awareness and evaluation of current issues including social, economic and technological developments that
affect biotechnological research and development, in order to foster the ability to produce new insights and propose sustainable
solutions .
develop research skills including literature evaluation, methodology design, practical implementation, analysis and critical
evaluation of data and results dissemination.
enhance the academic, personal and professional development of all students and foster their abilities to be self-evaluative,
reflective practitioners and life-long learners.
develop the application of professional and ethical principles, standards and practices relevant to bioscience professionals.
How Students are Supported in their Learning/Employability/Career Development
Student-centered curriculum
The curriculum has been designed for the development of specific subject knowledge and practical skills while providing opportunities for
personal and professional development. Students will gain practical experience of a range of modern methods and techniques used in
biotechnological research, including experimentation, observation, data analysis, interpretation and dissemination. The curriculum
encourages the development of key transferable skills that are valued by employers with an emphasis on project management, critical
thinking, problem solving and independent learning. In all modules feedback on their progress will be given to the students on a regular
basis. This feedback, both formative and summative, will allow the students to monitor and further their personal development in the area.
Students have opportunities to provide feedback on the programme (curriculum, delivery, resources) though elected student
representatives during bi-annual programme management meetings.
Induction
The School’s welcome for students includes introductory sessions to promote a positive atmosphere and encourage personal interaction
with staff from the outset, in particular with the programme leader. Students are provided with key academic information relating to the
University and the School organisation and systems including: an introduction to University student support and information services (see
below); details of Programme structure; assessment guidelines; administration issues (enrolment, submission/collection of assessed
work), Health and Safety issues. The expectations of the programme team are illustrated in the Programme Handbook (divisional) and
explained by the Programme Leader.
University support and information services
These are available to all students and include the library, study skills centre, student counselling service, AsK, accommodation service,
sports facilities, careers service and IT support services.
Guidance system
All MSc Biotechnology students will be allocated a personal guidance tutor. The guidance tutors are academic members of staff who are
actively teaching on the programme. The guidance tutors and the programme leader advise students on academic, personal
development, and career issues. The programme leader liaises with the relevant Module Tutors in the School.
All staff in the school operate an “open door” policy for individual support and students have access to staff by email.
Learning Resources
These include staff, peers, programme handbook and module guides, printed lecture handouts (powerpoint and other), e-learning portal
electronic material (lecture outlines, slides and additional electronic material), University and School computing facilities (equipment and
software), the library, research laboratories and equipment.
General study and research skills
In every intake, students will follow the module “Graduate Research Methods” in their first semester. In this module, students will be
introduced to and taught in the general study and research skills they will need throughout their programme. This includes access to and
analysis of literature, correct referencing of literature, statistical analysis of data, and information about various forms of academic
misconduct and how to avoid these. Many of these topics will be reinforced during the different subject specific modules as students
engage in independent or group research based assessments
Practical Work
Most modules include a diverse range of practical components (lab and computer based, factory/industrial visits) The two 30 credit
modules Industrial Biotechnology and Medical Biotechnology, like the rest of the subject modules, will have a strong practical
component. The inclusion of practicals in all subject modules will enable the students to gain confidence and skills in the practical
aspects of Biotechnology. Academic staff and demonstrators will supervise the practicals, and advise and support students to develop
their practical skills and insight.
Student Feedback
To enable students to monitor their academic progress and develop their study skills they are given written feedback on coursework
assignments, laboratory work and examination performance. Formative feedback is also provided during in-class activities such as
practical sessions and seminars.
Employability/ career development
The curriculum has been designed to enhance students’ employability by offering a relevant subject-base, as well as opportunities for
personal and professional development. The modules will use industrially relevant case-studies and recent research literature to illustrate
scientific principles. In addition, seminars from industrial and external academic visiting speakers and industrial visits will enable students
to place their subject of study in an industrial context, and interact directly with potential employers. Students are introduced to the
University Careers Service during induction.
13.
Learning Outcomes of Programme Specified in terms of performance capabilities to be shown on completion of the
programme/pathway. Numbers correspond to the map of learning outcomes in section 18.
Students completing this programme will have command of a body of core knowledge relating to Biotechnology, including an
understanding of aspects at the forefront of their discipline. They will be able to evaluate scientific information, consider the relative merits
of alternative theories and views, formulate personal opinions, exercise personal responsibility and be able to communicate their findings
effectively.
a) Knowledge & Understanding
Students will be able to demonstrate specialist in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of:
a1. essential facts, concepts and principles underpinning biotechnology, with an emphasis on the themes of molecular biotechnology and
bioinformatics.
a2. theory, applications and limitations of the advanced science that is at the forefront of developments in biotechnology
a3. role, nature, evolution, use and limitations of methods and technologies deployed in research and development in biotechnology
a4. technological, social and ethical issues at the frontiers of biotechnological research and their impact upon relevant stakeholder
groups.
b) Intellectual Skills
Students will be able to:
b1. apply and understand scientific knowledge to systematically analyse complex problems and offer appropriate strategic solutions using
a range of effective methods and tools.
b2. critically evaluate, interpret, integrate and discuss information and data provided by a range of sources, including research literature,
industrial reports and policy documents.
b3. understand how the boundaries of knowledge are advanced through research and advanced scholarship.
b4. critically assess and discuss moral and ethical issues and their importance in establishing safe standards of working.
b5. identify, plan and execute independent research by applying a range of investigative and practical skills.
c) Practical Skills
Students will be able to:
c1. apply scientific knowledge and principles to define problems and formulate experimental hypotheses by identifying the key issues
and parameters affecting their solutions.
c2. design appropriate experimental protocols by identifying and selecting appropriate methodology and tools, taking into consideration
practical constraints as wells as relevant health and safety regulations, moral, ethical and legal implications, and where relevant,
sensitivity to the impact of investigations on the subjects of the experiment.
c3. apply and implement appropriate methods and techniques for the generation of complex data.
c4. analyse data using qualitative and quantitative methods, and make critical assessment of the quality of information obtained in the
context of previous results and further investigations needed.
C5. manage individual and group practical work, integrating practical skills effectively and safely.
d) Transferable/Key Skills
Students will be able to:
d1. learn independently, enhancing their existing skills and developing new ones to a high level, enabling them to sustain their own
continued professional development
d2. demonstrate creativity in problem solving and decision making with relevance to their subject of study
d3. effectively and professionally communicate information, ideas, arguments, problems and their solution in both written and oral form to
specialist and non-specialist audiences
d4. demonstrate initiative, personal responsibility, personal enterprise, self reliance and self direction, and when relevant collaborate
effectively with peers, for planning and implementing tasks at a professional level
d5. engage in critical self appraisal of their own learning experience, personal strength, limitation and performance
d6. justify, and appraise research with high scientific rigor.
14.
Learning, Teaching & Assessment Strategy
The modules used in the programme use different teaching, learning and assessment methods as appropriate and the programme is
designed to enable the progressive development of cognitive, intellectual, practical & transferable skills, facilitating the further
development of an independent learner. All learning, teaching and assessment methods fully comply with the University strategy and
guidelines and the QAA Code of Practice on Assessment. The methods provide wide diversity, incorporating the best techniques to fit the
particular subject under study and the depth of learning required at postgraduate level.
Some modules are taught conventionally, others may be taught using independent learning materials, with the support of the appropriate
tutor. Students receive a mixture of learning experiences, including lectures, small group seminars, site visits, and laboratory sessions
where appropriate. Delivery is also supported by the use of a range of academic and case-study-based learning materials. There is an
emphasis on independent learning and problem solving using new research development in the relevant subject area.
In order to prepare students for their professional role in society, insight in environmental and ethical issues regarding biotechnology is
pivotal. Ample attention will be given to these: both ethical and environmental issues form an integral part of all topical modules.
The assessment methods aim to reflect the wide range of teaching and learning practices and diversity of subject matter, and are
designed to test the learning outcomes of each module in the most appropriate way. The students are expected to evaluate theoretical or
practical frameworks for the analysis and critical evaluation of a variety of issues, informed by recent research. Where appropriate, they
are also expected to produce new critiques, methodologies and insights and propose new solutions to problems. Assessment methods
may include exams, essays, laboratory reports, case studies, data analysis, presentations, and individual portfolios.
The learning, teaching and assessment methods are designed to increasingly support independent learning after developing a sound
knowledge base, supporting the progressive development of the learning outcomes and the demands of advanced postgraduate work.
All students are prepared for the practical components as well as the various modes of assessment in the different subject modules via
an earlier core module on research methods. This will include data analyses, essay writing, referencing, and will explain the important
issue of plagiarism.
Learning, teaching and assessment of transferable skills permeates the whole of the programme but is especially focused upon in the
Research Methods module.
15.
Programme Structure.
Programme Structure (Refer to table 1: programme structure of MSc Biotechnology (Full
Time) and Table 2 (part time)
Level 7
Please see Table 1 for programme structure.
Taught modules worth 180 credits:
 Generic module: Graduate Science Research Methods (CH0923; 20
credits) Subject Exploration (CH0911; 20 credits)
 Subject specific modules: Molecular Biology (CH0926), Bioinformatics
(CH0910), Animal Biotechnology (CH0913), Plant Biotechnology
(CH0909) – each 20 credits; Medical Biotechnology (CH0969),
Industrial Biotechnology (CH0968) – each 30 credits
The programme has two intakes per year: in January, and in September. The
programme is structured in such a way that equality between the two intakes
in ensured:
 The introductory module Graduate Science Research Methods is
delivered twice per annum, so that all students follow this module in
their first semester
 Each module is independent; no module is a prerequisite for an other
 Each subject-specific module contains its own practical element
 The two 30 credit modules, with their practical component, are
delivered in different semesters
Master of Science degree requires 180 points at level
7.
The programme is year long. There will be three periods of study:
 “Autumn” semester – synchronous with the undergraduate semester 1
 “Spring” semester – synchronous with the undergraduate semester 2
 “Summer” – the period after conclusion of the undergraduate semester
2.
The 180 credits will be divided over these three periods. Teaching in “autumn”
and “spring” semester will be weekly and semester long. Students will attend
several modules during these semesters. Most modules will typically have a
number of contact hours per week for the duration of the semester. The
modules taught in this way are:
 Molecular Biology
 Bioinformatics
 Graduate Research Methods
 Plant Biotechnology
 Medical Biotechnology
 Subject Exploration (less contact hours; more individual work)
The modules in the summer period will be block taught: an increased number
of contact hours per week over a shorter period. This enables the students to
focus more intensely on the subject. The modules taught in this way are:
 Animal Biotechnology
 Industrial Biotechnology
Please see the structure diagrams below for details of the schedule for the
two intakes.
Full-time: normally 1 calendar year.
Part-time: normally 2 years (individual study plans will be formulated to allow
flexibility,)
16.
Interim Awards Credit Structure & Programme Learning Outcomes for Interim Awards.
Award
17.
Credit Structure
Postgraduate
Certificate
Postgraduate Certificate awarded for 60 credits
assessed at level 7.
Postgraduate
Diploma
Postgraduate Diploma awarded for 120 credits
assessed at level 7.
Programme Learning Outcomes (Note: modified programme learning
outcomes identified with the appropriate code in each instance – see
section 13)
Students will have achieved many of the programme
learning outcomes. The exact combination will depend upon
the modules considered for the award.
Students will have achieved most of the programme learning
outcomes. The exact combination will depend upon the
modules considered for the award.
Variation From Assessment Regulations Provide details of any approved variations from the standard University regulations.
n/a
Mapping of Learning Outcomes
18.
This section shows how the individual modules (with module learning outcomes as written in the module descriptor) together contribute to programme
learning outcomes, presented as a matrix of programme learning outcomes (as identified numerically in section 13), against modules. Where a module
contributes to a programme learning outcome, this is indicated with an asterisk.
MODULE
Core/
option
a) Knowledge & Understanding
b) Intellectual Skills
1
2
3
4
1
2
3
4
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
xX
X
c) Practical Skills
5
1
2
d) Transferable Key Skills
3
4
X
X
X
X
5
1
2
3
4
5
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
6
Level 7
CH0909
Pla Biotech
CH0913 An
Biotech
CH0910
Bio Info
CH0926
Mol Bio
CH0923
Res Meth
CH0911
Sub Expl
CH0968
Ind Biotech
CH0969
Med
Biotech
Core
Core
Core
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Core
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Core
X
X
X
X
Core
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Core
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Core
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
19.
Admission Requirements
Applicants should normally possess:
An honours degree (2ii or above) in a subject related to their proposed area of study, like for instance Biotechnology or
Biology, or an equivalent qualification. The study programme must have included Genetics, Molecular Biology and/or other
relevant topics.
Overseas applicants: Where English is not the first language, applicants should normally possess a standard of English IELTS
6.5 or equivalent. The marks for each IELTS component should not be lower than 6.0.
20.
Application Procedure
Standard Postgraduate University application procedure
Programme structure for MSc Biotechnology Full Time
September intake
Sem. 1
Research
Sept-Dec
Methods
CH0923
Anna Lindsay
20
Sem. 2
Jan-April
Summer
May-Aug
Subject
Exploration
CH0911
Helen Hooper
20
Industrial
Biotechnology
CH0968
Lynn Dover
30
January intake
Sem. 1
Research
Jan-April
Methods
CH0923
Anna Lindsay
20
Summer
May-Aug
Sem. 2
Sept-Dec
Animal
Biotechnology
CH0913
Helen Hooper
20
Subject
Exploration
CH0911
Helen Hooper
20
Bioinformatics
CH0910
Stephen
Cummings
20
Molecular
Biology
CH0926
Gary Black
20
Animal
Biotechnology
CH0913
Helen Hooper
20
Molecular
Biology
CH0926
Gary Black
20
Industrial
Biotechnology
CH0968
Lynn Dover
30
Bioinformatics
CH0910
Stephen
Cummings
20
Plant
Biotechnology
CH0909
Rinke
Vinkenoog
20
Medical
Biotechnology
CH0969
Seth Racey
30
60 credits
70 credits
50 credits
Medical
Biotechnology
CH0969
Seth Racy
30
70 credits
50 credits
Plant
Biotechnology
CH0909
Rinke
Vinkenoog
20
60 credits
Part time
Part time structures will be discussed with individual students and can be
accommodated to individual needs and circumstances