In this course students will examine the fundamental sciences that underpin biotechnology – chemistry, biochemistry, and microbiology – while investigating the application of biotechnology to areas such as business, ethics and environmental science. This professional major also provides flexible study options that allow students to take minors and/or electives studies in chemistry or environmental science or other areas such as business, information technology and designs.
Course objectives
The main aim of the course is to provide graduates with the knowledge, skills and attitudes to be a professional scientist in their chosen discipline area. Graduates will have a qualification that allows them to seek professional employment, or further studies at honours or postgraduate level.
Students completing the Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology) should be able to:
- Demonstrate a coherent understanding of science by articulating the methods of science, explain why current scientific knowledge is both contestable and testable by further inquiry and explain the role and relevance of science in society
- Exhibit depth and breadth of scientific knowledge by demonstrating well-developed knowledge in at least one science disciplinary area
- Critically analyse and solve scientific problems by evaluating information from a range of sources, designing and planning an investigation, selecting and applying practical and theoretical techniques for that investigation and collecting, recording, interpreting and drawing conclusions from scientific data
- Effectively communicate science by presenting information or arguments, to a range of audiences, for a range of purposes using a variety of modes
- Adopt ownership of their own learning and scientific work by being independent and self-directed learners, working effectively and safely in an individual or team context, demonstrating knowledge of the regulatory framework relevant to the disciplinary area and practising ethical conduct
Career opportunities
As a biotechnology graduate you can pursue a career in environmental or biomolecular research, clinical biochemistry, food or beverage production, agricultural biochemistry, fermentation technology, waste treatment and biodegradation. It also provides pathways into honours, master and PhD degrees.
Professional recognition
Professional recognition Graduates are eligible to apply for graduate membership with the Australian Biotechnology Association, The Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Australian Society for Microbiology and the Royal Australian Chemical Institute.