Biological Sciences at UEA
Find out more about studying Biological Sciences at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreMSc Biotechnology and Engineering Biology
Key Details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Master of Science
- Course Length
- 1 year
- Course Start Date
- January 2026
Other Start Dates
Other Start Dates
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Why you should choose us
17th
UEA is ranked 17th overall for research quality in Biological Science
The Times Higher Education REF 2021 AnalysisCourse Overview
Biotechnology and Engineering Biology hold immense potential to tackle some of today’s most pressing global challenges, from energy and health to nutrition and pollution.
Our comprehensive MSc in Biotechnology and Engineering Biology will provide you with a deep conceptual understanding and extensive practical experience across a broad range of topics. You’ll master the fundamental theories of biotechnology and engineering biology while developing valuable transferable skills that will enhance your career prospects across multiple sectors.
On this dynamic course, you’ll explore how biotechnological and engineering biology approaches can be harnessed to address global challenges, with a strong focus on sustainability and practical applications in commercial and industrial settings.
UEA boasts outstanding expertise in biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular sciences, with a global reputation for academic excellence and strong links to leading institutes within the Norwich Research Park. This world-class environment offers you access to cutting-edge research and expertise throughout your studies, ensuring a vibrant, stimulating, and enriching learning experience.
This dynamic MSc programme will prepare you for a fulfilling career in research or in the broader industries related to biotechnology and engineering biology. You’ll graduate with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to launch your career and progress towards becoming an expert in this innovative and fast-evolving field.
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Study and Modules
Structure
On this one-year MSc course, you’ll master the fundamental theories of biotechnology and engineering biology while developing valuable transferable skills, including presentation techniques, employability practices, and time management. A major highlight of the course is the opportunity to carry out an independent research project with a research leader of your choice, based either at UEA or within one of the prestigious research institutes at the Norwich Research Park.
Upon completion, you’ll be exceptionally well prepared to pursue PhD opportunities, both nationally and internationally, in biotechnology, engineering biology, and related fields. You’ll also graduate with a diverse set of transferable skills and in-depth knowledge that will enhance your employability across industry, government, and non-governmental organisations.
Compulsory Modules
OPTIONAL A MODULES
(Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Teaching
All teaching within the School of Biological Sciences and the Faculty of Sciences is research-led. This means that throughout your one-year MSc, you’ll benefit from the expertise of a large, enthusiastic, and approachable team of academic staff, all with world-leading research reputations in biotechnology and engineering biology.
You’ll also gain insights from professionals in leading external organisations, ensuring that the latest developments and ideas are embedded into the course—creating a dynamic and engaging learning experience you’ll really enjoy!
You'll learn through lectures, seminars, workshops, and laboratory-based classes, where you’ll hone your practical skills.
Independent study
You’ll conduct your own unique research project for your dissertation – an exciting opportunity to delve into biotechnological or engineering biology topics that truly inspire you, all within an ideal research environment.
You’ll also have the chance to attend regular seminars and workshops led by world-renowned scientists, keeping you at the forefront of the latest developments in biotechnology and engineering biology.
Assessment
Your learning will be assessed through a combination of methods, tailored to each module’s objectives. These include formal exams, coursework assignments, and presentations.
Each module features several summative assessments, preceded by formative tasks. You’ll complete formative assessments early in the module and receive constructive feedback, helping you refine your work before submitting the related summative pieces.
You’ll also undertake a research project on a topic of your choice, which you’ll present as a formal written dissertation.
Employability
After the Course
Upon completing the course, you’ll be well positioned to contribute to the vital work underway in the expanding fields of biotechnology and engineering biology. Whether you pursue a career in basic research, biotechnological organisations, or other commercial industries, you’ll have the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the future of biotechnology.
Many of our graduates also choose to continue their academic journey, progressing to PhD study to deepen their expertise and research in this exciting field.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Academia
- Engineering biology research
- Biotechnology industry
- Research Scientist
- Health sector
- Government Policy Makers
- Non-Government Organisations
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in January each year.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
Degree classification
Bachelors degree - 2.2
Degree Subject
Life or Physical Sciences
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in January each year.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
Degree classification
UK Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent
Degree Subject
Life or Physical Sciences
- English Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 6.0 in Writing and Speaking, and 5.5 in Reading and Listening)
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills.
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
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- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2025/26 are:
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UK Students: £13,750
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International Students: £26,900
We estimate living expenses at £1,136 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here.
Scholarships and Bursaries
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships; please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
How to apply
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form.
Further information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us:
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk
International candidates are also encouraged to access the International Students section of our website.