Degree type: MSc/PGDip
UCAS Code: Apply directly to the University
Duration: 12 months (full-time)
This course is currently under development and is therefore offered subject to approval to commence in September 2011.
The field of biotechnology has matured during the past decade and is now recognised as providing a major impetus and support for developments in energy, as well as the more traditional areas of medical, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology.
Renewable energy is currently an important global issue and will remain so for the foreseeable future due to decline in fossil fuel reserves and high economic and environmental costs of extraction.
This new global resurgence and growth in the alternative and renewable energy sector poses new challenges and requires technical and professional expertise. There is need for graduates with skills to work in the new green economy, as proposed and predicted by current political and economic dictates.
This course is designed to equip you with the knowledge that effectively integrates biotechnology, renewable energy technologies, environmental management and entrepreneurial skills to efficiently harness, develop, exploit and utilise sustainable energy systems and supply networks in an environmentally sustainable manner.
The MSc Biotechnology and Renewable Energy programme offers both conventional and innovative solutions to problems associated with bioenergy production, sustainability, management and utilisation. It is developed and delivered by a team consisting of industrial practitioners and leading academics drawn from School of Contemporary Sciences and the Dundee Business School.
The course covers the following themes: renewable energy technologies (bioenergy systems, wind and solar energy); generation, planning, distribution and marketing; environmental systems and sustainability; environmental regulations and business strategy; environmental and energy management systems; environmental impact of energy generation and exploitation; health and safety; project and asset management; international energy and petroleum economics or accounting; and accounting for sustainable development.
On completion of the taught component of the course (the Postgraduate Diploma stage), you undertake a research project in biotechnology and renewable energy. The Masters project is designed to provide our graduates with an industry-specific or industry-related experience.
Most students will have the opportunity to undertake their projects in biotechnology and/or energy industry in Scotland, UK and further afield. You can be allowed up to 12 months for the completion of the MSc project and dissertation. This period will enable those who may wish to obtain industrial experience while still on the course to do so without jeopardising their chances to obtain a degree.
How you learn
An integrated course of lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical assignments, case studies and fieldwork are used to enhance your knowledge and understanding, as well as develop your problem solving skills. Throughout the course emphasis is placed on participation, collaboration, guided and self-directed study.
The programme is flexible enough for students to tailor to their own interest and they either pursue hypothesis-driven research in experimental biotechnology and renewable energy studies or enter industry. The project phase of the course is designed to allow you to apply your studies and develop your chosen speciality.
How you are assessed
Progress in the taught modules is assessed by a combination of coursework and examination. The coursework element includes formal essays, collaborative work, case studies, seminars and industrial reports. Progress in the laboratory-based modules is assessed by standard mini-project reports.
The Masters project is assessed by a combination of written thesis, laboratory book and assessed laboratory achievement. Some modules will be assessed by coursework only and others by the combination of coursework and examinations. The most appropriate form of assessment is chosen for the subject area being assessed.
A good Honours degree of at least a lower Second class classification or equivalent in appropriate science and engineering disciplines, e.g. Biology, Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Ecology, Botany, Zoology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Agro-sciences, Medical Sciences, Food Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or Management Sciences, awarded by a recognised university or equivalent degree awarding institution.
Candidates with alternative qualifications and/or appropriate work experience will also be considered on an individual basis at the discretion of the University.
Overseas
All applicants are required to provide certified proof of competence in English Language and the University's minimum requirements are listed here
Career
Graduates can find exciting career opportunities in general biotechnology, general engineering, energy, transportation or management - in both the private and public sectors - as biotechnologists, environmental or chemical engineers, energy management specialists, consultants and managers.
Potential employers include: oil and gas companies; energy generation and marketing companies; the manufacturing and construction industry; regulatory bodies; local authorities and other public sector organisations; the water and waste management industry; non-governmental organisations; bilateral or multilateral international organisations; environmental pressure groups; and research and academia.
