Entry requirementsEntry Requirements We welcome applications from holders of an honours degree (at least 2.2) in biology or a related subject. In addition we are looking for the ability to develop entrepreneurism during the course. An interest or past experience in applying business to the application of biology is desirable. We encourage applications from mature applicants with equivalent qualifications and business experience.
Academic titleMSc Enterprise in Biosciences
Course descriptionAdd business skills to your biology portfolio and enhance your entrepreneurial expertise for employment and new business development.
Our Enterprise in Biosciences provides you with the combination of biotechnology and business to develop commercial ideas in your areas of interest and increase your employability. The importance of biology in everyday life is increasing rapidly and biologists require a broad knowledge of business and marketing to develop ideas and products either for sale or application.
The subject of our MSc is wide ranging from sports studies to biomedical sciences, from molecular biology to ecology, cell culture to environmental management. Each of these areas has its own knowledge and understanding but their application requires common skills in marketing, financial forecasting and management, human resources and business planning.
In some applications of biotechnology you may be testing a novel product for sale, developing an advice or support service or undertaking a relief project for a charity. Each application requires sound biology knowledge and skills to manage the organisation of a targeted project.
Contact Time:
Typically 21 hours per week.
Course Content
Stage 1
Postgraduate Certificate (PgC) 60 credits
* Structure of the Biotechnology Industry
* Managing Information
* Marketing Management
Stage 2
Postgraduate Diploma (PgD) 60 credits
As for Certificate plus:
* Biotechnology Applications
* Biotechnology Case Studies
* New Venture Creation
Stage 3
Masters (MSc) 60 credits
As for Diploma plus:
* International Markets
* Project and Placement
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching is in groups of different sizes interacting with other students as well as completing individual assessments, projects and investigations. Teaching methods range from lectures and tutorials to workshops and simulations as well as an extensive programme of group activities and case studies.
Assessment is by coursework, case study reports, seminar presentations, timed evaluation tests and portfolio development. The MSc award requires presentation of a project report comprising of a business plan and proof of concept for a proposed development.
We support you to learn at your own pace whilst giving you challenging and realistic assignments and ensure that you are provided with relevant feedback on your performance.
Work Experience
Industrial involvement is important in providing relevant and up-to-date instruction, particularly in the fast moving biotechnology industries. We have extensive links with biological industries ranging from specialist lectures and tutorials to work placements. These links include hospitals, production industries, molecular biology companies, water companies, food production and development, research laboratories for government and pharmaceutical firms and biotechnology industries. Industries sponsor activities at the University and support site visits to illustrate current activities and processes.
Students will work alongside bioscience professionals and academic business mentors. Part of the programme will involve an industrial placement, working on challenging commercial aspects of a bioscience business
Career Opportunities
Our MSc award provides graduates with enhanced career prospects for positions in the bioscience industry, in media and publicity and, importantly, in developing independent business opportunities. Business skills are of increasing value to the bioscience industries and will help graduates progress in a wide range of applications. Our new venture support through the Hatchery enables students to develop potential business opportunities and to commence trading as an independent company. Biotechnology companies are expected to show strong growth in the next decades providing many career opportunities at all levels. Our course provides you with a strong start in this developing field.
Facilities
Our Enterprise in Bioscience course is based in one of the most modern teaching laboratories in the North East. An extensive science complex provides up-to-date laboratories, services, research and teaching rooms. Our modern equipment includes electron microscopes, X-ray and mass spectroscopy analysis equipment, extensive gas and liquid chromatography apparatus, an up-to-date molecular biology laboratory, pilot scale fermentation laboratories, ecological monitoring systems and even a small commercial brewery and food preparation unit.
Library facilities include access to a wide range of journals and up-to-date texts on each subject area and on business studies.
Our facilities also include a business support service, the Hatchery. All students are eligible to use these facilities to assist their course and to develop entrepreneural ideas, either individually or in collaboration with other students and staff. Hatchery facilties include the use of our business support centre, full computer access and services, detailed business advise and contacts services. The hatchery is located in its own centre and has a constant support from dedicated staff and industrial connections.