About the Course

Course Description:

Aims & Objectives:

The biotechnology programs are designed to develop:

• introduction to the basic theoretical principles and experimental skills in biotechnology for the graduate diploma level, and mastery of the advanced theoretical principles, experimental techniques and applications of biotechnology for the master level
• a sound and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and practices in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology and chemistry, which are the foundations of biotechnological developments
• an understanding of the diversity of medical and industrial practices through which laboratory discoveries are applied on a wider scale
• a sound understanding of the social context in which biotechnology is applied
• an appreciation of the legislation that regulates biotechnology activities
• an appreciation of the moral, ethical, legal and social issues and values in relation to professional practices in biotechnology
• flexibility of thought, independence as well as teamwork, safe laboratory practices, record-keeping skills
• sound professional skills and attitude
• advanced communication and interpersonal skills, both verbal and written

For the master level, students gain additional skills in:

• information gathering, evaluation of published information, critical analysis of data
• experimental design, problem-solving
• preparing results for peer-evaluation publication through written reports/minor thesis, journal articles and/or presentations at conferences

Course Structure:

The master degree requires students to successfully complete 200 credit points of approved units of study which is equivalent to two years of full-time study. One credit point is deemed to be equivalent to one hour of student work per week over a semester, whether in contact with staff or in private study. For full-time study, students must be enrolled for 50 credit points per semester. For part-time study, students must be enrolled for 25 credit points per semester. Total student contact hours, including lectures, classes, tutorials and laboratory sessions, will normally be between 12 to 16 hours per week during the academic semesters.

The master degree is based mainly on coursework and also includes a minor research project.  The program structure is comprised of nine core units of study (equivalent to 112.5 credit points) and electives (equivalent to 87.5 credit points).

Units of Study:

Employment Outcomes

Career Opportunities:

Medical laboratory scientists, scientific officers or research and development scientists in diverse fields including, biochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, diagnostic services and pathology services, pharmaceutical industries, forensic science laboratories, veterinary science, racing industry, agribusinesses, wine industry and breweries, biotechnology businesses, food technologists, quality assurance officers, occupational health and safety officers, scientific sales representatives/ executives, associates to patent attorneys, staff with science publishers, newspaper writers in this field, also PhD students in any of the above fields.

Professional recognition:

Graduates will be eligible to apply for membership of a number of professional associations and societies, in fields such as biotechnology, biochemistry, microbiology and genetics. These professional associations and societies include: AusBiotech Ltd, Genetics Society of Australia (GSA), Australian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB), Australian Society for Microbiology (ASM) and The Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI).

Graduate Attributes:

• are capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas
• operate effectively in work and community situations
• are adaptable and manage change
• are aware of environments in which they will be contributing
• are entrepreneurial in contributing to innovation and development within their business, workplace or community

The first year of the program will focus on the fundamental scientific concepts and key issues in biotechnology, and the second year will extend these further into specialised areas and develop student skills in communicating their science knowledge to others. In addition to the knowledge of biotechnology, graduates will develop skills of critical inquiry, teamwork, and written and oral communication skills. Graduates will also develop independent research and problem-solving skills and extend their written communication and critical analysis skills through oral presentations and a minor thesis. These attributes will be evidenced through the various assessment tasks which students will be required to successfully complete.

How To Apply

Entry Requirements:

A three year Bachelor of Science degree in a biological or chemical science (e.g. biology, botany, zoology, agriculture, forestry, health sciences, veterinary science, chemistry) with an average of 60% marks over the three years, or successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Science (Biotechnology), or equivalent.

Recognition of Prior Learning:

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process where a student may be granted credit or partial credit towards a qualification in recognition of skills and knowledge gained through work experience, life experience and/or formal training.
Further details for students considering Higher Education courses: http://www.swin.edu.au/corporate/registrar/ppd/files/stuinf.htm

Course Fees:

In 2009, tuition fees for this program are based on $1850 per 12.5 credit point unit of study. In the event that a unit of study is derived from another program, the applicable fee will be that of the other program.  All fees are reviewed each year and may increase without notice.

FEE-HELP
The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) is a suite of income-contingent loans for Australian citizens and holders of Australian permanent humanitarian visas. FEE-HELP (previously PELS) is available to eligible fee-paying undergraduate and postgraduate students. It provides students with a loan to cover their tuition fees (lifetime maximum $83,313 from 1 January 2009). The FEE-HELP limit is indexed on 1 January each year.

Note: New Zealand citizens and holders of other Australian permanent resident visas do not have access to HELP loans. These students must pay their student contributions or tuition fees up front without a discount.

For further information on your support and study options visit the 'Going to Uni' website at: http://www.goingtouni.gov.au

Application Procedure:

Applications for mid-year entry will be accepted until Friday 17 July 2009. Applications submission details can be found on the application form and can be downloaded from the website at: www.swinburne.edu.au/hed/postgrad/apply  

Find Out More

Information Sessions:

Further information:

Web: Enquire online