Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology)

Molecular biotechnology (MBT) describes the molecular basis of technological approaches, applications and processes in biology and medicine. The discipline encompasses fundamental science as well as a number of specialist areas such as genomics and proteomics, drug discovery and development, information biosciences, resource management and regulations. Molecular biotechnology is having a remarkable and major impact in the health, food, veterinary and agricultural sciences in Australia and abroad and is one of science’s major growth areas.

Overview

The molecular biotechnology program is intended for industry employees and those experienced in related fields who wish to obtain relevant knowledge in molecular biotechnology. The programs emphasise applications in the medical biotechnology field and also provide opportunities for those specialising in the fields of food, agriculture and environmental biotechnology.

University of Sydney Advantage

The University of Sydney received major government and industry funding to establish its degrees in molecular biotechnology and with these funds has created an internationally recognised modern training program. The molecular biotechnology program at the University is the first teaching program of its type and has strong local and international links with universities and industry. It has received significant recognition for its innovative approach to teaching, including the industry-relevant education that students receive. Units are taught by specialised staff members with input from industry affiliates in order to cover new and leading edge technologies and ensure that the most up to date information on molecular biotechnology is presented. Students aim to achieve a knowledge base emphasising scientific applications and an appreciation of the social and ethical implications of molecular biotechnology.

Program Expectations

Students will gain a strong knowledge of the latest aspects of molecular biotechnology on a local and global scale as well as a greater understanding of the impact of business, regulations and intellectual property on science. Students in this program will build on this important foundation with further studies in the business skills and advanced techniques essential to this rapidly expanding field.

Mode of Delivery

The programs are delivered through lectures and tutorials with staff from across the University and emphasise the background knowledge required to understand modern biotechnology. Selected aspects are supported by practical classes and facility site visits. Some core units of study are presented using a combination of face-to-face and online lectures. Students wishing to continue their full-time employment should be aware that most face-to-face teaching in core units occurs during business hours. Weekly lectures are at a set time and students are notified of practical classes in advance. Streamed video lectures are delivered online to assist with revision or to provide additional information. Program materials are also available on the web. The programs are assessed by exams, practical classes and assessments held throughout the semester such as presentations, essays and quizzes.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should hold a Bachelor degree that covers the relevant background areas in science. For example, our current students hold undergraduate degrees in science, medicine and agriculture.

Applicants may be admitted directly into the MApplSc(MBT). Alternatively, it is possible for applicants who perform satisfactorily in the GradCertApplSc(MBT) and GradDipApplSc(MBT) to transfer to the MAppSc(MBT) later, subject to Faculty of Science regulations.

Program Requirements

• GradCertApplSc(MBT):
  - satisfactory completion of 24 credit points (cp)
• GradDipApplSc(MBT):
  - satisfactory completion of 36 cp
• MApplSc(MBT):
  - satisfactory completion of 48 cp

Units of Study

Up to date list of units of study.

After Graduation

Molecular biotechnologists can choose to specialise in diverse fields. The following online resources describe the biotechnology industry in NSW and Australia:

www.business.nsw.gov.au/industry/biotechnology/

www.biotechnology.nsw.gov.au/

Annual intake

Qualified students are offered places, subject to availability.

Minimum Program Duration – Full Time

• GradCertApplSc(MBT)
  - not available to study full-time
• GradDipApplSc(MBT)
  - 2 semesters
• MApplSc(MBT)
  - 2 semesters

Minimum Program Duration – Part Time

• GradCertApplSc(MBT)
  - 2 semesters
• GradDipApplSc(MBT)
  - 3 semesters
• MApplSc(MBT)
  - 4 semesters

Is Mid-Year Entry Available?

Yes

Industry Projects & Placements

MApplSc(MBT) students interact with industry representatives onsite to gain a deeper understanding of the industry. Selected students (based on academic merit and determined by a quota) participate in placements in industry on specific topics.