MC111 - Master of Biotechnology
Plan: MC111P03 - Master of Biotechnology
Campus: City Campus
Overview
Program detailsPurpose of the ProgramArticulation and pathwaysEntrance requirementsExternal accreditation and industry linksStudent expenses and charges in addition to feesLibrary, IT and specialist resourcesProgram details
Award title: Master of Biotechnology
Award abbreviation: MBiotech
Total credit points: 192
Career: PGRD
Duration: 2 years full time; 4 years part time
Location: Onshore, City Campus and Bundoora Campus
Owning school: Science (171H)
Owning school URL: www.rmit.edu.au/about/schools-colleges/science
ASCED code: 010900
CRICOS code: 045512D
Top of pagePurpose of the Program
As a graduate of this program, you will be able to move into advanced areas of the Biotechnology industry, equipped with advanced skills in gene and protein technologies, bioinformatics, and in various microbiology and food science disciplines. The theoretical component of the program is complemented by a large component of "hands-on" laboratory practicals and a research or Work Integrated Learning (WIL) component, which may include the production of a minor thesis. Such skills are in high demand in the diverse biotechnology sector.
Year one focuses on the development of core skills and knowledge, and allows you to specialise by selecting courses of interest relevant to your chosen stream. Procedures and protocols, as well as oral, written and visual language specific to the study and practice of science are also reviewed. You will also develop your practical skills in Microbiology (BIOL2173) which includes a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) experience in which your knowledge and skills are applied and assessed in a simulated workplace context and where feedback from industry and/or community is integral to your experience.
Year two further develops your specialisation. You will also apply your skills to a Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Research Project (BIOL2496/BIOL2497) which includes a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) experience in which your knowledge and skills are applied and assessed in a real or simulated workplace context and where feedback from industry and/or community is integral to your experience. Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Research Project (BIOL2496/BIOL2497) is also a capstone course which requires you to integrate and apply your prior learning within the program as preparation for your transition to professional practice. You will also have the opportunity to complete an optional Work Experience Practicum (BIOL1302/BIOL2491).
This program requires on campus attendance. The program is delivered full time, in face-to-face mode, supported by various blended learning activities (including on-line).
Top of pageArticulation and pathways
You may be eligible for credit for previous study in a qualification at AQF level 8 or above, from other institutions or overseas. These include a graduate certificate, graduate diploma, or bachelor honours degree.
Students who have undertaken a Bachelor degree in Biotechnology may be given up to 48 credit point exemptions.
Please contact the Program Manager for advice. On completion of this program you may be eligible for entry into a PhD in this field.
Pathways
Pathways refer to related programs for which you may be eligible once you have graduated from your current program.
For domestic students, the following exit awards are available:
- GC186 Graduate Certificate in Biotechnology is available if you choose to exit the Master's program after 48 credit points. This excludes any courses awarded as advanced standing.
- GD101P03 Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology is available if you choose to exit the Master's program after 96 credit points. This excludes any courses awarded as advanced standing.
The capabilities developed by the Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma are consequently less comprehensive than those developed by the Master's program.
Note: these exit awards are not registered with CRICOS and therefore not available for international students
As a successful graduate of this program, you may (upon application) be eligible to proceed to PhD or Masters by research. Acceptance into these programs would be subject to each programs' entry requirements.
Top of pageEntrance requirements
Program Entry Requirements
An Australian bachelor degree with a GPA of at least 2.0 out of 4.0 in Biological Sciences, Food Science/Technology, Biotechnology, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Agricultural Science or Chemical Engineering, or equivalent.
International qualifications are assessed for comparability to Australian qualifications, according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
Prerequisites
Successful completion of a Chemistry or Biochemistry course in a bachelor degree.
English Language Requirements
A minimum IELTS (Academic module) overall score of 6.5, with no band below 6.0; or equivalent. For equivalents to English entry requirements, see the English equivalents web page.
Top of pageExternal accreditation and industry links
The program is not subject to external accreditation.
On successful completion of Master of Biotechnology, graduates are eligible for membership of Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB).
This program has an Industry Advisory Committee (IAC) comprised of external members drawn from a diverse external industry base and institutions. These provide opportunities for networking and are a useful link in ensuring that the teaching material and student capabilities remain close to the needs to future employers. In addition, the academic area of Biosciences has a number of industry contacts, relationships and adjunct professors who can help you in your study as well as offer advice on professional careers. These contacts are made initially through your university lecturers and program manager.
Top of pageStudent expenses and charges in addition to fees
Once you are enrolled as a student in this program you will need to allow for expenses other than university tuition fees. Additional expenses may relate to the purchase of lecture notes, textbooks, stationery, consumables such as printer paper, fees levied by commercial internet service providers for internet access outside of the university campus, and other relevant costs.
Top of pageLibrary, IT and specialist resources
Library resources and services
As a student enrolled in a program at RMIT University you can access the extensive services, facilities and study space provided by the Library. You can access books, journals and other course related materials, such as DVDs, past exams, newspapers and e-books. Through our document delivery service you can also request items from any library in the world.
Computers for study are available at every Library site, where you can access the Internet, myRMIT (www.rmit.edu.au/myrmit) or Library e-resources. If you have a laptop you can access the RMIT University wireless network in the Library.
Library staff can show you how to find information for your assignments or you can work through web-based tutorials or use our online Ask a Librarian service.
The Library is continually expanding our electronic collections to make it easier for you to get the information you need when you need it. All RMIT University students have unlimited access to quality electronic resources such as, e-books, e-journals and newspapers.
Specialist books in biotechnology, microbiology and food science and technology are available in print form and through RMIT’s on-line subscriptions.
You can find more information on Library resources and services at: http://www.rmit.edu.au/library.
Online learning tools and content
You can access online learning tools and content for your program and associated courses at myRMIT: www.rmit.edu.au/myrmit.
Services available to you as a student at RMIT University
RMIT University provides a wide range of resources and opportunities to assist your learning and wellbeing so you can achieve your study and career goals.
Services are available face to face and online assisting with:
- transition to tertiary study and learning
- study skills, academic skills including literacy, mathematics and basic sciences if relevant
- enabling assistance if you have a disability, long term medical condition or other form of disadvantage which may impact on your learning
- career development and employment
- living and wellbeing (including advice on health, housing and financial matters)
- opportunities for scholarships, leadership and study abroad
- opportunities for participating in arts, sport, recreation, fitness activities as well as student activism and university governance
We also offer a friendly and supportive environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
You can find more information at: www.rmit.edu.au/students.
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