Passionate about science and technology and want to explore novel perspectives in these domains? A Master's degree in Biotechnology at a globally accredited UK university awaits you. The course has gained immense popularity in the recent past, with several international students finding rewarding careers thereafter. Students are encouraged to apply both vocational and professional skills in the field of Biotechnology to real work environments for finding appropriate solutions.
Because of the cutting-edge technology and the expert faculty it offers, the UK can be your best choice for a Master's or MSc in Biotechnology. Most importantly, several UK universities provide placement opportunities for students just after course completion, an attractive feature of the degree program.
Why Study MSc in Biotechnology in the UK?
As stated earlier, the UK is a hub for science and technology, which also reflects in the country's academic education. The UK provides ample scope for students to conduct research in Biotechnology and unravel some undiscovered aspects of the field. Here are some reasons cited by international students for their inclination toward studying MSc in Biotechnology in the UK:
Promising career prospects in the UK upon course completion
Theoretical learning coupled with research opportunities that encourages the practical application of learned skills
High-tech and advanced classroom learning methodologies
Affordable education with uncompromised quality standards
Biotechnology is also popularly referred to as Biosciences and is a rapidly growing stream of education. The course involves the study of living cells and organisms and their use in the production of everyday utility items, such as industrial chemicals, antibiotics, genetically modified crops, and more. The UK, with a well-grounded framework in technology and science, provides a base for students interested in furthering their careers in Biotechnology. Some of the highly demanded Biotechnology courses in UK universities are:
MSc in Applied Biosciences and Biotechnology
MSc in Biotechnology, Bioprocessing, and Business Management
MSc in Biotechnology and Enterprise
MSc in Biotechnology
Every university in the UK has a different fee structure for MSc in Biotechnology. The price may vary depending on the rank of the university chosen as well as the design of the curriculum. However, the average MSc Biotechnology in the UK fees will likely range between GBP 28,000 and 59,000 per year (approx).
Students interested in pursuing advanced studies, such as a Master's in Biotechnology, must adhere to certain criteria specified by the applied university. These criteria may vary from one university to another; however, some standard admission requirements remain uniform for all institutions. These are listed below:
A score of 6.5 - 7.5 in IELTS
A valid passport for travel to the UK
A valid international student visa for study in the UK
A completed Bachelor’s in Biotechnology (preferred) or a related domain of study with a minimum aggregate of 55%
A minimum acceptable score in GRE as specified by the applied university
Students applying for MS in Biotechnology at a UK university must meet additional requirements to obtain a student visa. These include:
Passport or any other valid and acceptable travel document
Proof of sufficiency of funds to support course cost
Proof of CAS or Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies from the applied university
Medical health checkup report
A country renowned internationally for its science and technology facilities and innovations is replete with superior universities for academic excellence. MSc Biotechnology in UK universities is one of the most popular courses and can be pursued at some of the following institutions:
University | QS World University | Next Student |
University of Cambridge | 2 | Sep |
Imperial College London | 6 | Sep |
The University of Edinburgh | 15 | Sep |
Newcastle University | 122 | Sep |
University of Oxford | 4 | Oct |
University College London | 8 | Sep |
University of Nottingham | 114 | Sep |
University of Manchester | 28 | Sep |
Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/world-university-rankings/2023
To make the course easily affordable to a maximum number of international students, UK universities offer a wide range of scholarships, such as the following:
Biological Sciences International Scholarship at the University of Leeds
South Asia Postgraduate Excellence Award at the University of Nottingham
Scotland’s Saltire Scholarships at the University of Glasgow
GREAT Scholarship at Newcastle University
School of Biological Sciences Taught Postgraduate Bursaries at the University of Edinburgh
Students who complete the course duration of MS in Biotechnology are entitled to start applying for a host of job roles, such as:
Biotechnology Specialist
Product Strategist
Microbiologist
Process Development Strategist
Medical Technologist
Medical Representative
Medical Scientist
A Biotechnologist’s salary in the UK will likely fall between GBP 19,000 and GBP 24,000 per annum. However, this may vary as per changes in skill upgrades and/or years of work experience.
1. Which specialisations are available in MSc in Biotechnology in the UK?
The course has several specialisations on offer which the student can choose from as per their comfort and preference:
Bioinformatics
Environmental Regulatory Affairs
Biodefense
Drug Research
Biomedical Engineering
2. What is the difference between MSc in Biomedical Science and MSc in Biotechnology in the UK?
The two courses may sound similar but are indeed different. While MS in Biomedical Sciences refers to studying the human body and its organs. Biotechnology, on the other hand, is the study of living organisms to facilitate the production of new technologies and products for everyday use.
3. Can Indian students pursue Biotechnology Master’s degree in the UK along with part-time work?
Yes, students applying for the course are allowed the option to choose either a full-time or part-time format. Those opting for the latter option can comfortably study and work part-time to support the tuition fee and other living costs in the UK.
4. Can international students pursue Ph.D. after completing MSc in Biotechnology in the UK?
Yes, upon completion of the MS program, you may apply for Ph.D. in Biotechnology at a UK university.
5. What are the minimum IELTS grades required to be considered for Master’s in Biotechnology in the UK?
Most UK universities accept applicants with an IELTS score of 6.5 or above for admission into MSc in Biotechnology.
6. Can Indian students work in non-biotech industries after completing MS in Biotechnology in the UK?
Yes, seeking entry into non-biotech sectors is possible after pursuing MS in Biotechnology in the UK. Some of the highly sought-after job roles are available in the following areas:
Manufacturing sector
Regulatory Affairs and Quality Control
Pollution Control Industries
7. Can MSc in Biotechnology graduates apply for Permanent Residency in the UK?
Yes, the UK allows graduates of any course who have completed five years of studies to apply for a PR card in the country.
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