Why Master of Science?
So far, biotechnology has enabled the growth of pest-resistant corn, cabbages cross-bred with scorpions, and fast-growing frankenfish – not to mention human skin, bones, cartilage and bladders. In the future, it could mean ears made entirely in labs, bionic wing attachments and synthetic super eyes with Wi-Fi.
Biotechnology is booming, with rising demand for specialists. From cutting-edge healthcare to improved agriculture and renewable energy, it has the potential to address some of the world’s greatest challenges. The future of biotech is ripe with opportunity. You can capitalise on this, joining an innovative and impactful field as a scientist, technician or trailblazing entrepreneur.
Overview
Our Master of Science is all about research skills, lifelong learning and industry-relevant professional development.
The Biotechnology specialisation has a strong focus on entrepreneurship, preparing you for the changing – and challenging – demands of the sector.
Build in-depth knowledge of the latest technologies and methodologies in biotechnology, such as genetic engineering, bioinformatics and molecular biology. Learn how to plan and execute laboratory experiments to solve real-world research problems. Understand the innovation process and key aspects of commercialisation. Identify new product opportunities and collaborate in teams to meet them. Choose specialised electives – from animal biotechnology to project management. Get a unique opportunity to undertake a year-long research project, open to academically advanced students only*. Study alongside active research experts, working at the cutting edge of biotechnology, where major advances are influencing vaccines, cancer and stem cell therapies. You’ll graduate prepared for dynamic careers in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, agriculture and environmental management. With its strong research focus, you can also use this degree as a pathway to a PhD.
*This option is only available to students that satisfy a specific GPA requirement after their first 48 units of study.
Key features
Learn about entrepreneurship, innovation and intellectual property management.- Build crucial data analysis, machine learning and computational modelling skills.
- Master advanced research and laboratory techniques.
- Solve real-world problems in the biotechnology sector.
- Work alongside active research experts.
- Get a unique opportunity to undertake a one-year independent research project – open to academically advanced students only.
What you'll learn
The Master of Science teaches you best practices in scientific research, including how to communicate your research effectively and manage data responsibly. You’ll explore integrity in science, including the appropriate use of artificial intelligence, ethics and open science approaches.
In the Biotechnology specialisation, you’ll take cutting-edge courses, including:
- Drug discovery and development
- Molecular microbiology and vaccines
- Bioinformatics and systems modelling
- Advanced research platforms and techniques
- Science commercialisation and innovation
- Biotechnology in practice
- Application of next generation sequencing
- Protein purification: principles and practice
- Advanced microscopy imaging and analysis
- Research design and methods in science
- Applied biotechnology research and design.
You’ll get familiar with the process of transforming scientific discoveries into marketable innovations, focusing on the practical and commercial aspects of biotechnology.
You’ll choose from exciting electives in:
- Animal biotechnology
- Genomics applications
- Good manufacturing practice, validation and regulation
- Risk assessment and management
- Project management fundamentals.
Specialisations
The Master of Science is also available with specialisations in the following:
Degree Structure: Master of Science specialising in Biotechnology
Program code: MASCI
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 78 to 96 units for one Major from Specialisations, and
- 0 to 18 units for Electives
Study plan
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Enrolment information
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 78 to 96 units for one Major from Specialisations, and
- 0 to 18 units for Electives
Complete 24 to 48 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Platforms
|
Course code
BIOL5048
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Techniques
|
Course code
BIOL5049
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Research Theory and Practice in Science
|
Course code
BIOL5800
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applications in Next Generation Sequencing
|
Course code
BIOL6001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Protein Purification: Principles and Practice
|
Course code
BIOLX400
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Research Communications
|
Course code
EDUC5240
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Microscopy Imaging and Analysis
|
Course code
FOOD6008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Commercialisation and Innovation
|
Course code
SCIE5000
|
Units
6
|
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
Complete 24 to 48 units comprising:
- 24 to 48 units from Work integrated learning
Work Integrated Learning description
WIL courses give you real‑world experience as part of your degree.
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology Collaborative Research Project
|
Course code
BIOL6903
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology (Biomedical) Research Project A
|
Course code
BIOL6011
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology (Biomedical) Research Project B
|
Course code
BIOL6012
|
Units
24
|
Electives description
A flexible course choice within your degree.
Complete 0 to 18 units comprising:
- 0 to 18 units from University-wide electives
A full list of university-wide elective options can be accessed below.
University-wide elective optionsComplete exactly 24 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology in Practice
|
Course code
BIOL5050
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Bioinformatics: Sequencing Technologies
|
Course code
BIOLX401
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Bioinformatics: Overview
|
Course code
BIOLX402
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Good Manufacturing Practice, Validation and Regulation
|
Course code
ENGPX416
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Risk Assessment and Management
|
Course code
PROJ5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Animal Biotechnology
|
Course code
ANIMX100
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Drug Discovery and Development
|
Course code
PHAR5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Vaccine Design and Development
|
Course code
PHARX400
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Project Management Fundamentals
|
Course code
PROJ5029
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
At Adelaide University, you’ll build a strong foundation in research, innovation and product development that prepares you for real-world roles in biotech. You could help bring new medical treatments to life, support the safe and effective delivery of cutting-edge therapies or analyse complex biological data to inform health discoveries. Your skills might also help ensure the quality of scientific processes, coordinate research projects or contribute to the development of vaccines that protect communities worldwide.
You could also be a:
- Biomedical scientist
- Research associate
- Biotech patent analyst
- Diagnostic technician
- Clinical trial associate
- Bioinformatician
- Medical writer
- Quality assurance officer
- Biotech project manager
- Vaccine development scientist.
Industry trends
There’s a lot going on in our world today: ageing populations, rampant chronic disease, the threat of climate change and major technological advancements. Fortunately, the biotechnology sector, disruptive by nature, is helping meet this pace of change. CRISPR and other gene-editing technologies are revolutionising DNA modification, offering new treatments for genetic disorders and cancers – and shaking up agriculture. Similarly, advances in 3D bioprinting are transforming the future of healthcare. There’s no denying, there’s a strong and rapidly growing job market within the biotech sector (A Prosperous Future: Biotech, KPMG, 2023). Our Master of Science specialising in Biotechnology builds both scientific and commercialisation skills, preparing you to respond to global megatrends and make the most of these developments.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your program team
Dr Kate Wegener
Program Director
College of Science
School of Biological Sciences
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
