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.
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 – and apply your skills in a year-long research project.
You’ll 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.
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.Undertake a one-year independent research project.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:
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:
The Master of Science is also available with specialisations in the following:
Complete 96 units comprising:
Complete exactly 96 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Platforms
|
Course code
PHYS5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Research Techniques
|
Course code
PHYS5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Science Commercialisation and Innovation
|
Course code
SCIE5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Drug Discovery and Development
|
Course code
PHAR5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Molecular Microbiology and Vaccines
|
Course code
PHAR5001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Bioinformatics Overview
|
Course code
PHAR5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology in Practice
|
Course code
FOOD5010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Microscopy Imaging and Analysis
|
Course code
FOOD6008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applications in Next Generation Sequencing
|
Course code
BIOL6001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Protein Purification Principles and Practice
|
Course code
BIOL6002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Research Communications
|
Course code
EDUC6023
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Applied Biotechnology Research and Design
|
Course code
FOOD6903
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Research Theory and Practice in Science
|
Course code
BIOL6800
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology (Biomedical) Research Project A
|
Course code
SCIE6801
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology (Biomedical) Research Project B
|
Course code
SCIE6802
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Animal Biotechnology
|
Course code
BIOL6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Bioinformatics: Sequencing Technologies
|
Course code
BIOL6004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Good Manufacturing Practice, Validation and Regulation
|
Course code
SCIE6000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Project Management Fundamentals
|
Course code
PROJ5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Risk Assessment and Management
|
Course code
PROJ5004
|
Units
6
|
At Adelaide University, you'll build a deep understanding of research and product development, so you can make a big impact in biotech. You might pioneer human enhancement technologies like bionic limbs or neural implants. You could take groundbreaking inventions to market as a bio-entrepreneur. Perhaps you’ll engineer crops that are not only pest-resistant but also climate-resilient, super-nutritious and able to thrive in previously uninhabitable environments.
You could also be a:
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.
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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:
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.
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
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.
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:
