Postgraduate | 2026

Master of Science specialising in Biotechnology

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

MASCI

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$53,900

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115957B

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and fulfill any essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

A completed bachelor honours degree (AQF level 8) or equivalent in a discipline aligned with the selected specialisation and an overall Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher (or equivalent academic performance) from a recognised higher education institution; OR
A completed graduate certificate (AQF level 8) or higher from a nested program or discipline aligned with the selected specialisation with an overall Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher (or equivalent academic performance) from a recognised higher education institution.

Aligned disciplines for each specialisation include:

Biotechnology - genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology or related;
Environment and Conservation - ecology, environmental chemistry and biology (or related), earth science;
Global Food and Nutrition Science - food and nutrition;
Medical Radiation Physics - science (physics), engineering;
Sustainable Georesources - earth science, geology, geophysics, environmental geoscience, mineral geoscience.

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia - GPA 7.0 Scale	N/A

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 – 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.

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:

Environment and Conservation
Global Food and Nutrition Science
Medical Radiation Physics
Sustainable Georesources.

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

6 units from Core courses, and
0 to 6 units from Electives, and
84 to 90 units for one Major from Major

Complete exactly 6 units from the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name PG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX5000	Units 6

Complete 42 to 66 units from the following:

	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 Drug Discovery and Development	Course code PHAR5000	Units 6
Course name Molecular Microbiology and Vaccines	Course code PHAR5001	Units 6
Course name Bioinformatics and Systems Modelling	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 Application of Next Generation Sequencing	Course code BIOL6001	Units 6
Course name Protein Purification: Principles and Practice	Course code BIOL6002	Units 6
Course name Research Design and Methods in Science	Course code SCIE6800	Units 6

Complete 24 to 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Applied Biotechnology Research and Design	Course code FOOD6903	Units 24
Course name Biotechnology (Biomedical) Research Project A	Course code SCIE6801	Units 24
Course name Biotechnology (Biomedical) Research Project B	Course code SCIE6802	Units 24

Complete 0 to 6 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Animal Biotechnology	Course code BIOL6003	Units 6
Course name Genomics Applications	Course code BIOL6004	Units 6
Course name Good Manufacturing Practice, Validation and Regulation	Course code SCIE6000	Units 6
Course name Risk Assessment and Management	Course code SCIE6001	Units 6
Course name Project Management Fundamentals	Course code PROJ5000	Units 6
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6

Career outcomes

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:

Biotech patent analyst
Diagnostic technician
Plant biotechnologist
Epidemiologist
Pharmacogenomics consultant
Bioprinting technician
Biomedical scientist
Agrigenomics specialist
Cyborg anthropologist
Research associate.

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.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

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 campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

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.

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Master of Science specialising in Biotechnology