Handbook 2008

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Biotechnology (BSc)

Course Code: B1032

Biotechnology is concerned with the commercial applications of biological techniques or biological agents such as bacteria or isolated enzymes in medicine, agriculture or industry. Examples include fermentation processes such as wine, beer, bread and cheese making; enzyme engineering for the manufacture of vitamins, antibiotics and biochemicals; genetic engineering of plants and animals for agricultural and medical purposes; and environmental engineering to allow for the efficient treatment of wastes and the rehabilitation of polluted sites.

The major provides broad training as well as in-depth study in selected areas so as to generate graduates capable of operating in an interdisciplinary environment. Consequently, the major provides the opportunity to gain experience in the biological, chemical and commercial aspects of biotechnology with an emphasis on the development of the skills and knowledge applicable to a wide range of biotechnological processes. Areas studied include genetic engineering, immunology and vaccine production, fermentation technology and cell culture. Specialisations may be incorporated into the degree through the appropriate choice of double majors and minors (see Recommended Double Majors and Minors in this section). All students in the Biotechnology major are encouraged to obtain on-the-job training in industry, which may be achieved via an Industry Practicum or through a Professional Placement.

Level:	Bachelor
Qualification:	Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biotechnology
Duration:	3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Availability:	Murdoch campus (internal)
Employment Prospects:	Biotechnologists gain employment in pharmaceutical companies, in the food industry, in research and diagnostic teams in hospitals, in biotechnology companies, in agriculture departments, in university research centres and in the CSIRO. Some graduates have found employment in the legal field as patent attorneys while others have become sales managers in scientific equipment and pharmaceutical companies.
Special Requirements:	Students undertaking units in Biotechnology will not be required to kill any vertebrate animal but they will be required to work with fresh tissue from dead animals in certain units.
Professional Recognition:	Students who complete the three-year double major in Biotechnology and Chemistry are eligible for membership of the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).

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Document creation: 2004-06-08
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URL: http://www.murdoch.edu.au/handbook/courses/BIOTBSC