Plant Biotechnology and Enterprise,MSc

Our MSc in Plant Biotechnology and Enterprise explores the need for society to increase agricultural productivity amid global warming and equips you with the skills and experience in biotechnological innovation and commercial know-how to support the vital efforts to shape food production in the future.

The course is designed to fill a gap in biosciences education. It has been developed against a backdrop of a decade-long fall in crop protection and biotech products caused by fewer companies working in the sector, a difficult legislative environment and the lack of professionals with the right abilities and specific knowledge to convert their ideas into commercial products.

You will study six taught modules delivered through a wide-ranging mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials, small group classes and practical laboratory-based workshops. The final element of the course is a 6-month research project carried out on a subject of interest. The project brings together your laboratory, research and planning skills into a thesis and presentation under the direct guidance of a research-active supervisor.

Four taught modules have been developed specifically for this course; Frontiers in Plant Science, Agriculture and Biotechnology, Literature Review and Technology in Biosciences. They cover research and innovation in the field and offer opportunities to interact with the sector.

Of the remaining two modules, Bioinformatics and Data Science will cover the computational and statistical analysis of big data while Innovation and Enterprise in Plant Biotechnology, adds a business element to the course as you take on a real-world innovation challenge.

Ensuring a flow of new scientists into the plant technology sector has never been more important given the socio-economic context and the rise in global warming-linked natural catastrophes and this course will help meet that need, helping to shape a positive future.

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Explore the critical challenge of feeding the world and develop the knowledge to play a key scientific and commercial role in shaping the future for food production.

Applicants need the equivalent of a UK honours degree to at least a 2:1 in a Biosciences equivalent degree (i.e. Biology, Natural Sciences, Agriculture). It is not necessary to have prior laboratory experience in plant sciences techniques

English Language requirements

Please see English language requirements

Additional requirements

• Completed online application form
• CV/Resume
• Evidence of higher degree qualifications with mark statements
• Personal statement (up to 750 words)

English language requirements

As a biosciences postgraduate, you receive the essential skills and knowledge that come with research-led teaching, enabling you to continue your academic work at a higher level.

Your experience in the Department also develops more personal attributes, sought by employers, to help you take the step into a stimulating and rewarding professional career.

Recent postgraduates have gone on to succeed in a wide range of roles in teaching, the health sector, industrial R&D and biotechnology, management, accountancy, conservation, ecological and environmental services, journalism, environmental and biological patent law, pharmaceuticals, the civil service and the armed services.

Whether you choose to follow a research or employment path, you will be equipped with up-to-date skills and knowledge that you can use to help society tackle global challenges related to humankind, the climate and the environment.