Masters Degrees in Genetic Engineering, United Kingdom

This new programme offers an expansion of our already successful MSc in biotechnology into industrial biotechnology and business management, jointly run with Adam Smith Business School.

Why this programme

◾Ranked world top 100 for Biological Sciences.
◾If you wish to improve your knowledge of modern molecular, biochemical, cell biological and genetic techniques for biotechnological applications, this programme is designed for you.
◾You will gain a sound understanding of the nature of business based on bioscience knowledge and research, opportunities for innovation and regulatory requirement constraints, intellectual property and ethical issues.
◾You will learn how to assess the current literature, be encouraged to form opinions based on scientific merit, and implement these ideas in future research planning.
◾You will be taught by experts in the field of Biotechnology who run active, internationally recognised, research groups here at Glasgow.
◾The course involves extensive interaction with industry, through site visits, guest lectures and an "Industrial Networking Symposium" where representatives from the European biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry will discuss their companies and answer your questions on working in the industrial sector.
◾This course has a strong laboratory component, with courses that run throughout the year, giving you hands on experience of diverse biotechnological research skills.
◾The flexible independent research project provides valuable training for students wishing to proceed to a PhD or into an industrial career; this may also be completed as a business based project.
◾Additional programme components include industrial networking sessions and a dedicated career workshop on progression planning.
◾Our Masters in Biotechnology provides an advanced practical knowledge of how research and industry are being applied to solve real world problems.

Programme structure

Semester 1

You will be based in the Adam Smith Business School, developing knowledge and skills in management principles and techniques. We offer an applied approach, with an emphasis on an informed critical evaluation of information, and the subsequent application of concepts and tools to the core areas of business and management.

Core courses

◾Contemporary issues in human resource management
◾Managing creativity and innovation
◾Managing innovative change
◾Marketing management
◾Operations management
◾Project management.

Semester 2

You will study biotechnology courses, which aim to enhance your understanding of using biological processes, organisms, or systems to manufacture products intended to improve the quality of human life. These courses will provide training in state-of-the-art biotechnology applications what have resulted in ground-breaking developments in the areas of medicine, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and food production, environmental clean-up and protection and industrial processes.

Core course

◾Biotechnology Applications

Optional course

◾Omic Technologies for the biomedical sciences
◾Synthetic Biology: Concepts and Applications
◾Bioimaging
◾Biosensors and diagnostics
◾Plant Genetic Engineering
◾Crop Biotechnology.

Project or dissertation

If you are studying for an MSc you will undertake individual project in the summer period (May–August). This will give you an opportunity to apply and consolidate the course material and enhance your ability to do independent work, as well as present results in the most appropriate format. Project options are closely linked to staff research interests.

The aims of the courses are:
◾To enable students to study state-of-the-art biotechnology topics in depth;
◾To allow students to benefit from leading-edge research-led teaching;
◾To provide a critical appreciation of relevant theoretical, methodological and technical literature from the central business disciplines;
◾To develop students’ ability to critically appraise published research related to biotechnology;
◾To cultivate analytical and interpretive abilities and enable students to integrate these with essential managerial and business skills.
◾To develop students laboratory skills relevant to biotechnology;
◾To enhance students’ conceptual, analytical and presentation skills and to apply them to biotechnology problems;
◾To prepare students for management positions in the biotechnology industry or entry into PhD programmes.

Core and optional courses

Core

◾Contemporary Issues in HR
◾Managing Creativity and Innovation
◾Managing Strategic Change
◾Marketing Management
◾Operations Management
◾Project Management

Optional

◾Biotechnology Applications
◾Omic technologies for the biomedical sciences: from genomics to metabolomics
◾Synthetic Biology: Concepts and Applications
◾Bioimaging
◾Biosensors and diagnostics
◾Plant Genetic Engineering
◾Crop Biotechnology
◾Biotechnology project

Career prospects

This programme will prepare you for a career in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industrial sectors or for entry into PhD programmes.

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This is a multidisciplinary degree that brings together aspects of chemistry, biology and cell biology. The modules are carefully tailored to cover the knowledge in key fields such as:

• Gene therapy
• Drug design
• Genomics
• Proteomics
• Genetic engineering for plants
• Animals and micro-organisms
• Bioinformatics.

This degree produces graduates with a critical, analytical and flexible approach to problem solving, enhancing laboratory and professional competence and enabling students to work independently and use their initiative in solving the diverse problems they encounter.

The programme helps you to obtain a creative attitude to the development and manufacture of biotechnology products. The intention is that skills and knowledge can be more readily transferred to professional activities.

The aims of the programme are:

• To provide students with subject-specific knowledge, as well as a critical, analytical and flexible approach to problem solving in the field of biotechnology
• To provide students with enhanced practical and professional skills and thus prepare them effectively for professional employment or doctoral studies in the field of biotechnology
• To enable students to work independently and use initiative to solve the diverse problems they may encounter
• To instil a critical awareness of advances at the forefront of biotechnology.

Science - General

We offer a range of sciences programmes from biotechnology to formulation science. Whatever you choose to study you will be taught by experienced staff in state-of-the-art laboratories and gain the skills you need to succeed in your chosen field. Employability is central to all our programmes and you will benefit from our strong links with employers, industry work placements and professional accreditations.

What you'll study

Full time

- Year 1

Students are required to study the following compulsory courses.

Biotechnology Research Projects (60 credits)

Bioinformatics (30 credits)

Research Methods and Data management (30 credits)

English Language Support (for Postgraduate students in the Faculty of Engineering and Science)

Applied Molecular Biology (30 credits)

Students are required to choose 1 course from this list of options.

Biotechnology and Transgenic Crops (30 credits)

Pharmaceutical Biotechnology (30 credits)

Fees and finance

Your time at university should be enjoyable and rewarding, and it is important that it is not spoilt by unnecessary financial worries. We recommend that you spend time planning your finances, both before coming to university and while you are here. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Find out more about our fees and the support available to you at our:

- Postgraduate finance pages (https://www.gre.ac.uk/study/finance/postgraduate)

- International students' finance pages (http://www2.gre.ac.uk/students/international/international-students/finance)

Assessment

Students are assessed through:

• Coursework
• Examinations
• Presentations
• Thesis
• Online assessment.

Teaching and learning

This programme involves a series of lectures, seminars and workshops. Case studies will provide you with exposure to up-to-date problems and enhance your problem solving and team-work in a way that simulates an industrial setting. A research project in a well equipped department led by staff with a diversity of research experience will give you the opportunity to carry out novel research and enhance your practical skills, analytical thinking and independence.

Career options

Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, intellectual property industry (IP), academics, bio-informatics/IT, health services, research and higher degrees (PhD).

Find out how to apply here - https://www2.gre.ac.uk/study/apply

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The backbone of the MRes in Molecular Plant and Microbial Sciences is a 12-month period of research starting in the first week of October.

It consists of two research projects performed in research groups focusing on plant genetic engineering, plant development, plant molecular biology, proteomics, plant biochemistry, plant-microbe interactions, transcriptomics and bioinformatics.

In parallel with your research project, you may also attend lectures from relevant advanced courses delivered at Imperial, such as Advanced Topics in Plant Molecular Biology.

You will also attend seminars organised either by individual research groups or collectively by the plant and microbial sciences academics.

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Your programme of study

Genetics at University of Aberdeen is taught at the heart of a very large teaching hospital at Foresterhill. This gives you access to experts within a wide variety of areas including bioinformatics, mendelian genetics, applied statistics and immunogenetics. The MSc degree in Genetics will take you through a wide-ranging curriculum describing some of the latest advances in genetics. You understand how diversity influences clinical outcomes, transplants, infections, autoimmune disease, cancer, immunodeficiency and human reproduction. We have the best support services in the UK to ensure you have guidance from the start.

Courses listed for the programme

Semester 1

Compulsory

Bioinformatics

Applied Statistics

Generic Skills

Basic Skills - Induction

Introduction to Molecular Biology

Optional

Introductory Immunology

Introduction to Microbiology

Semester 2

Genome - Enabled Medicine

Research Tutorials

Immunogenetics

Mendelian Genetics

Semester 3

Masters Research Project

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/degree-programmes/98/genetics/

Why study at Aberdeen?

• You are taught by leading genetics and bioscience researchers with immunogenetics unique to Aberdeen
• You have access to a large teaching hospital with dynamic research culture
• Researchers at Aberdeen invented insulin treatment winning the Nobel Prize

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• Full Time or Part Time
• 12 months or 24 months
• September start

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees:

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/tuition-fees-and-living-costs-287.php

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-taught/finance-funding-1599.php

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/funding/

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:

• Your Accommodation
• Campus Facilities
• Aberdeen City
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies

Find out more about living in Aberdeen:

https://abdn.ac.uk/study/student-life

Living costs

https://www.abdn.ac.uk/study/international/finance.php

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Whether you are a new graduate or already employed and seeking to further your career prospects, this course offers a solid career development path. You can also choose this course if you wish to pursue research in biotechnology at PhD level.

Biotechnology is the application of biological processes and is underpinned by • cell biology • molecular biology • bioinformatics • structural biology. It encompasses a wide range of technologies for modifying living organisms or their products according to human needs.

Applications of biotechnology span medicine, technology and engineering.

Important biotechnological advances including

• the production of therapeutic proteins using cloned DNA, for example insulin and clotting factors
• the application of stem cells to treat human disease
• the enhancement of crop yields and plants with increased nutritional value
• herbicide and insect resistant plants
• production of recombinant antibodies for the treatment of disease
• edible vaccines, in the form of modified plants
• development of biosensors for the detection of biological and inorganic analytes

You gain

• up-to-date knowledge of the cellular and molecular basis of biological processes
• an advanced understanding of DNA technology and molecular biotechnology
• knowledge of developing and applying biotechnology to diagnosis and treatment of human diseases
• practical skills applicable in a range of bioscience laboratories
• the transferable and research skills to enable you to continue developing your knowledge and improving your employment potential

The course is led by academics who are actively involved in biotechnology research and its application to the manipulation of proteins, DNA, mammalian cells and plants. Staff also have expertise in the use of nanoparticles in drug delivery and the manipulation of microbes in industrial and environmental biotechnology.

You are supported throughout your studies by an academic advisor who will help you develop your study and personal skills.

What is biotechnology

Biotechnology is the basis for the production of current leading biopharmaceuticals and has already provided us with the 'clot-busting' drug, tissue plasminogen activator for the treatment of thrombosis and myocardial infarction. It also holds the promise of new treatments for neurodegeneration and cancer through recombinant antibodies.

Genetically modified plants have improved crop yields and are able to grow in a changing environment. Manipulation of cellular organisms through gene editing methods have also yielded a greater understanding of many disease states and have allowed us to understand how life itself functions.

Course structure

You begin your studies focusing on the fundamentals of advanced cell biology and molecular biology before specialising in both molecular and plant biotechnology. Practical skills are developed throughout the course and you gain experience in molecular biology techniques such as PCR and sub cloning alongside tissue culture.

Core to the program is the practical module where you gain experience in a range of techniques used in the determination of transcription and translational levels, for example.

All practicals are supported by experienced academic staff, skilled in the latest biotechnological techniques.

Research and statistical skills are developed throughout the program. Towards the end of the program you apply your skills on a two month research project into a current biotechnological application. Employability skills are developed throughout the course in two modules.

The masters (MSc) award is achieved by successfully completing 180 credits.

The postgraduate certificate (PgCert) is achieved by successfully completing 60 credits.

The postgraduate diploma (PgDip) is achieved by successfully completing 120 credits. 

Core modules:

• Cell biology (15 credits)
• Biotechnology (15 credits)
• Plant biotechnology (15 credits)
• Molecular biology (15 credits)
• Applied biomedical techniques (15 credits)
• Professional development (15 credits)
• Research methods and statistics (15 credits)
• Research project (60 credits)

Optional modules :

• Human genomics and proteomics (15 credits)
• Cellular and molecular basis of disease (15 credits)
• Cellular and molecular basis of cancer (15 credits)

Assessment

As students progress through the course they are exposed to a wide range of teaching and learning activities. The assessment strategy of the postgraduate course considers diverse assessment methods. Some modules offer dedicated formative feedback to aid skills development with assessments going through several rounds of formative tutor and peer feedback. Summative assessment methods are diverse, with examinations present in theory-based modules to test independent knowledge and data analysis. Several modules are entirely coursework-based, with a portfolio of skills such laboratory practical's and research proposals generated throughout the course forming the summative tasks. In all cases, the assessment criteria for all assessed assignments are made available to student prior to submission. 

Employability

The course is suitable for people wishing to develop their knowledge of molecular and cell biotechnology and its application to solving health and industrial problems.

You can find career opportunities in areas such as

• biotechnology research
• medical research in universities and hospitals
• government research agencies
• biotechnology industry
• pharmaceutical industry.

Students on this course have gone on to roles including experimental officers in contract research, research and development in scientists, diagnostics specialists and applications specialists. Many of our graduates also go on to study for PhDs and continue as academic lecturers.

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New digital technologies are transforming the workplace as companies improve their operational efficiencies and grow using new hybrid business models. This Master's degree develops your career with this in mind, giving you the knowledge and skills to develop and work with the next generation of smart technologies.

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The primary aim of this course is to train graduates interested in the clinical application of advances in human genetics and genomics so that they can provide and critically evaluate genetic and genomic counselling services.

You will be given a thorough grounding in human genomics, genetics, genetic analysis and bioinformatics, in communication and counselling skills, and in the skills required for you to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team providing genetic and genomic counselling for families. 

The course is particularly suitable for students interested in pursuing a career as a genetic counsellor. It is designed to meet the UK Genetic Counsellor Registration Board (GCRB) Set ‘A’ educational requirement to submit a Notification of Intention to Register with the GCRB (see http://www.gcrb.org.uk/), as well as the European Board of Medical Genetics (EBMG Genetic Counsellors division) educational requirement to submit a Notification of Intention to Register with the EBMG.

Distinctive features:

The MSc in Genetic and Genomic Counselling is an innovative part-time, largely distance learning course.  Being a ‘blended learning’ course, this opens up our well established genetic counsellor training expertise to a European and international audience, as it removes the need for you to relocate to Cardiff for full time study to train as a genetic counsellor.  Instead, you will attend short intensive teaching blocks in Wales (UK) and engage in the online learning components throughout the remainder of each year.  Approved placement learning in your own location is also undertaken in year 2. 

We are committed to developing your practice in evidence-based genetic and genomic counselling, with a strong emphasis on preparing you to contribute to clinical and health services research in genetic and genomic counselling.  The programme team includes world-class researchers in genetic and genomic counselling and counselling skills are taught by an expert counsellor.

Structure

The MSc programme consists of two stages: The taught stage which lasts for a total of 24 months and the dissertation stage R which lasts for a further 12 months, following completion of the taught stages.  The total normal duration to complete the full MSc programme is three academic years, from the date of initial registration on the programme.

A placement module runs throughout Year 2 of the course.  This is supported by significant patient interaction.  Access to and concrete plans for your genetic counselling placement is a criterion for selection at interview. 

Core modules:

Introduction to Healthcare
Introduction to Genetic and Genomic Counselling
Counselling and Communication Skills
Research Methods
Introduction to Genetics, Genomics, Molecular Science and Bioinformatics
Applied Genetics and Bioinformatics in Clinical Care
Advanced Genetic and Genomic Counselling
Placement: Genetic and Genomic Counselling
Dissertation: Genetic and Genomic Counselling

Teaching

You will be taught through a combination of face-to-face and online lectures, tutorials, seminars, self-directed study and experiential learning on placement.

Lectures take a range of forms but generally they aim to provide a broad structure for each subject, to introduce key concepts, and to convey relevant up-to-date information.  In tutorials and seminars, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss particular genetic counselling and genomic counselling topics, to consolidate and receive feedback on your individual learning and to develop skills in oral presentation.  Tutorials will enable you to make individual contributions to group study, for example by summarising a particular genetic condition or your dissertation project for the group.

You will have the opportunity to practise and develop counselling, intellectual, team-working and presentational skills by participating in diverse learning activities, such as solving clinical problems, small-group discussions, debates, oral presentations, independent research tasks and written assignments as well as your practical placement activities in year 2. 

Assessment

You will be assessed through a combination of means including written work (blogs, essays), presentations, reflective pieces, video skills assessment and a dissertation.

Career Prospects

Career prospects for graduates with an appropriately accredited MSc in Genetic and Genomic Counselling are excellent.  In the UK and in the US, the demand for genetic counsellors has increased in recent years.  The US has seen, over the past 2—3 years, a rise in job postings from about 300/year (mirroring US graduate numbers) to over 600 in 2015.  Proportionately similar increases in job postings are being seen in the UK.  Graduates from existing UK MSc in Genetic (and Genomic) courses will be insufficient to meet the needs of the UK NHS over the next few years, as many UK genetic counsellors are approaching retirement.  The Transnational Alliance of Genetic Counsellors (a partnership of genetic counsellor educators from eighteen countries) have strongly emphasized the need for training more genetic counsellors to practice internationally, specifically across the EU, Asia and South America.

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