Ranking
Top 20
In the UK
Book your Open Day or Make an enquiry
Discover more about your chosen subject at one of our Open Days or by asking us a question.
Course overview
Unlock deeper expertise and career opportunities with our MSci Biotechnology program, where advanced training goes beyond foundational knowledge, immersing you in cutting-edge research and hands-on experience to drive impactful change in healthcare, agriculture, and sustainability! Our program immerses you in this interdisciplinary field, connecting essential disciplines while allowing you to explore the frontiers of biotechnology, from creating genetically modified crops that can withstand climate stresses to developing precision medicine, gene therapies, and renewable energy solutions that make a real-world impact.
Explore Biotechnology at the University of Birmingham
For me, the real highlight has been the opportunity to learn from and directly engage with the academic staff here, all of whom are true experts in their fields. The knowledge they impart to us is always up-to-date and often backed up by their own research.
Join our four-year programme which is comprised of core (compulsory) and optional modules. Each module will be assessed in different ways depending on the topic you're studying.
Year 1
Year 1
Kickstart your journey in Biotechnology in year 1, where you'll explore cellular processes and microbial diversity through hands-on lab experiences in Biochemistry & Microbiology. Master essential biotech skills in teamwork and data analysis, while diving into Cell Biology, Genetics, and Ecological Concepts. Customize your learning with exciting optional modules, paving the way for a thrilling career in biotech!
Year 2
Year 2
In Year 2, deepen your expertise with Molecular Biotechnology & Enterprise, mastering advanced techniques and gaining hands-on cloning experience while exploring leadership concepts. Delve into Microbiology, Genetics II, and Proteins and Enzymes, all while honing your skills in Academic Development & Career Building to prepare for an impactful career in biotechnology!
Year 3
Year 3
Year 3 connects Biotechnology to real-world applications through the Biotechnology: Industry and Societal Impact module. Choose from exciting options like Biotechnology Enterprise or a Practical Project, and explore diverse topics such as Cancer Biology, Molecular Immunology, and Experimental Design to deepen your expertise and prepare for a meaningful career in biotech!
Year 4
Year 4
In Year 4 you will be focusing on a extended research project and focusing on research development, funding sciences and scientific communication. With optional modules you will be able to focus on whats important to you.
Why study Biotechnology at Birmingham?
- 16th
in the UK
QS World University Rankings 2025
- Entrepreneurial training: Be part of modules that empower students with vital business, entrepreneurial, and leadership skills to launch innovative biotech ventures, boosting employability in this fast-evolving, high-impact industry.
- Study Abroad: Spend your third year in France, Spain, Germany, or one of 300+ global destinations, immersing yourself in new cultures and learning from experts with our year abroad option.
- Professional Placement: Boost your employability with industry experience, applying your knowledge in real-world settings with our placement year programme.
- Join BioSoc: Connect with fellow Biosciences students through team sports, events, and specialist career conferences. Make friends, have fun and build your network.
Talk to our students
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly students to find out more about your favourite course, our beautiful campus and life in our vibrant and cultural city.
Course delivery
At Birmingham, our course integrates groundbreaking research with dynamic teaching, offering a range of tailored options to align with your career goals and passions.
Lecture
Projects
Laboratory
Tutorial
Workshop
-
Blended Learning: Enjoy the flexibility of recorded lectures for self-paced study, paired with engaging face-to-face sessions focused on deeper exploration, problem-solving, and group discussions.
-
Flipped Classroom: Prepare ahead with course material, then dive into interactive sessions that emphasize problem-solving, Q&A, and collaborative exploration with peers and lecturers.
-
Hands-On Practical Classes: Gain essential lab experience, developing critical research skills alongside academic and postgraduate researchers in cutting-edge facilities.
-
Seminars and Workshops: Participate in seminar-style learning, workshops, and unique opportunities to engage directly with research in labs and large-scale facilities across the college.
Support during your studies
At the University of Birmingham, we’re committed to your success with comprehensive support tailored to your needs. Here’s how we ensure you thrive:
- Personal Tutors: Receive tailored academic support and guidance from a dedicated tutor who will track your progress and help you excel.
- Wellbeing Officers: Access professional support for a range of personal and academic issues, including extensions, adjustments, and overall wellbeing.
- Student Experience Team: Maximize your university experience with research opportunities, career preparation, and social events to connect with fellow students.
Assessment methods and feedback
Our Biotechnology programmes use a variety of methods to assess student performance, including exams, essays and dissertations. At the beginning of each module, you'll be given information on how and when you'll be assessed for that particular area of study.
Module information
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
Year 1
Year 1
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Cell Biology & Physiology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Discovering Biosciences Skills and Enterprise | 20 | Full Term |
| Ecological Concepts and Plant Sciences | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Genetics I | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Molecular Biosciences and Microbiology | 20 | Full Term |
You must choose one 20-credit module
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Chemistry for Biochemists I | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Introduction to Evolution and Animal Biology | 20 | Semester 1 |
Year 2
Year 2
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Communication and Enterprise | 20 | Full Term |
| Genetic Engineering and Data Science | 20 | Full Term |
| Genetics II | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Microbiology: Medicine, Environment, and Industry | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Proteins in Biotechnology | 20 | Semester 2 |
You must take 20 credits from the following list:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Membranes, Energy and Metabolism | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Plant Sciences: from cells to the environment | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Topics in Medical Biosciences | 20 | Semester 1 |
Year 3
Year 3
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Evidence-based literature review and critical analysis informed project proposal | 40 | Full Term |
Choose 60 credits from the following:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Bacterial Gene Regulation | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Cancer Biology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Cellular Neurobiology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Conservation Practice: Genes to Ecosystems | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Current developments and advances in Eukaryotic Genetics | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Eukaryotic Gene Expression | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Experimental design, analysis & interpretation of biochemical data | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Microbial Pathogenicity and Disease | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Molecular and Cellular Immunology | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Omics for Biomedical Research | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Responses to Global Environmental Change | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Structures of Destruction: the structural biology of pathogenicity | 20 | Semester 2 |
Year 4
Year 4
The following must be taken:
Choose 40 credits from the following optional modules:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Bacterial Gene Regulation | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Cancer Biology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Conservation Practice: Genes to Ecosystems | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Current developments and advances in Eukaryotic Genetics | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Eukaryotic Gene Expression | 20 | Semester 1 |
| Microbial Pathogenicity and Disease | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Molecular and Cellular Immunology | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Omics for Biomedical Research | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Responses to Global Environmental Change | 20 | Semester 2 |
| Structures of Destruction: the Structural Biology of Pathogenicity | 20 | Semester 2 |
Teaching staff
Admissions Tutor
Dr Steve Minchin
Admissions tutor for Biotechnology
Dr Steve Minchin has an interest in transcriptional control at both the molecular and genomic level. He has a strong interest in research-led teaching, innovation and quality management.
Entry requirements
To secure a place at Birmingham, you'll need to meet our general entry requirements as well as those specific to your course.
- A Level
AAB including two from Chemistry, Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Statistics - at least one of which must be Chemistry or Biology/Human Biology
- IB
6,6,5 including two from Chemistry, Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Statistics - at least one of which must be Chemistry or Biology/Human Biology
- BTEC
BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma and Extended Certificate are accepted, but subjects are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Number of A levels required: 3
-
Required subjects and grades
Typical offer: AAB
AAB including two from Chemistry, Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Statistics - at least one of which must be Chemistry or Biology/Human Biology
General studies
We do not accept General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies, Applied Science, Communication and Culture, Critical Studies, Global Perspectives, Science in Society and World Development.
BTEC Qualifications
BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma and Extended Certificate are accepted, but subjects are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for further guidance.
Extended Project Qualification
Applicants who take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for the programme, plus an alternative offer, which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ.
Deferred Entry
Deferring admission is usually not a problem, but please inform the School or central Admissions. The university has a neutral attitude to gap years. You can still apply in advance for deferred entry and would be advised to do so.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
- TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking and 19 in Writing.
- IELTS*: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any band.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): PTE 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills.
- Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015)***: C1 Advanced - Minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component.
- Language Cert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 ‘Communicator’ with no less than 25 in each skill.
- Trinity ISE II: Distinction all skills.
- Trinity ISE III: Pass in each Skill
Presessional English courses
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September, including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Applicants who take the EPQ and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
Core Maths qualification
Applicants who take the Core Maths qualification and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in Core Maths. If you are also taking A-level Maths, you will not be eligible for an alternative offer through studying Core Maths. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
Am I likely to receive an offer for 2026?
Stay up-to-date with news and updates from the University of Birmingham including events, our courses and studying with us by registering your details. If you do so, you will be able to use our Offer Calculator.
Alternative Offers
Students who are eligible and complete a Pathways to Birmingham programme will receive an alternative offer, which is typically two grades below the standard offer.
Our Contextual Offer scheme
Our Contextual Offer scheme recognises the potential of students whose personal circumstances may have restricted achievement in school or college. If you are eligible to benefit from the Contextual Offer scheme, you will receive an offer which is one grade lower than the standard offer. You don’t need to apply for this – it will be assessed and applied at the point of application if you’re eligible.
- Pathways to Birmingham
BBB including two from Chemistry, Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Statistics - at least one of which must be Chemistry or Biology/Human Biology
- Contextual Offer
ABB including two from Chemistry, Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Statistics - at least one of which must be Chemistry or Biology/Human Biology
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation, and includes membership of the Guild of Students.
- £9,535*
per year for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27
*The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If Parliament agrees on an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study, normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to you without delay. The fee for September 2025 entry was £9,535 for UK students. If you are applying for 2026 entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee once it is confirmed by the Government.
Undergraduate loans
To help with the cost of studies, undergraduate students from the UK can apply for student finance through the Student Loans Company. The support available is made up of a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan which helps to cover living costs.
Scholarships, grants and bursaries
At Birmingham, we believe that financial worries should not be a barrier to accessing higher education. That’s why we offer a range of additional financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and other awards.
Financial support for Home students
If you're a UK student and starting university in September 2026, find out more about what financial support is available to you.
Financial support for International students
We want to help you reach your full potential. Explore our wide variety of scholarships available for international students.
Application process
Whatever your journey to university looks like, we’re here to support you every step of the way. For all undergraduate courses at Birmingham, you apply online through UCAS. The UCAS website has lots of information and advice around the process.
- 14 January 2026
Application deadline for September 2026 entry. Applications close at 18:00 GMT.
View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.
Career opportunities
Our graduates are highly regarded among employers in the UK, as evidenced by the fact that we’re the UK university most targeted by top graduate employers (High Fliers ‘Graduate Market in 2024’ report). Our courses are committed to your future career, and university is just the start.
The University is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits.
The Graduate Market in 2025, High Fliers report
Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique.
Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations.
I would definitely say that the highlights of university come from my placement year when I was able to independently carry out a research project then present it at a national research conference.
The Biotechnology degree from Birmingham opens doors to a world of exciting career possibilities across diverse industries.
Our graduates are increasingly sought after for roles in healthcare, environmental science, and biotechnology, with many pursuing advanced degrees. With dedicated support from our Careers and Employability Coordinator and the University’s Careers Network, you'll have the guidance needed to explore your passions and chart a successful career path tailored to your aspirations!
Graduates from this programme have gone on to work for organisations including:
The Binding Site
University of Birmingham
GSK
Elpida Therapeutics
Thermo Fisher Scientific
King's College London
UK Health Security Agency
Amgen
AstraZeneca
Wellcome Sanger Institute
Their job roles include:
Executive Assistant
Engineer Intern
Modelling and Simulations Engineer
Design Engineer
International Student Representative
Graduate Innovation Engineer
Healthcare Assistant
Social Research Officer
Operations Director
Content Marketing Manager
Careers Network
Our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offer support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.
Hear from some of our inspiring alumni who have gone on to work for leading employers such as the UK Space Agency and BBC Sport.
Student experience
Your experience studying at Birmingham will give you the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community, and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. In our student accommodation, you can enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
Our cosmopolitan city has a unique history and so much to see and do. With an ever-changing food and drink scene, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of culture, our city is more than somewhere to study.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus.
Campus life
Our beautiful campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn and socialise. Like a town of its own, it’s just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Flexible programmes to suit you
Not sure what you want to study?
Explore your options for combining subjects and shape your degree around your interests, whilst developing key skills for the world of work.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.