Environmental Biotechnology

Intro

Why choose the MTech Environmental Biotechnology

• Employ engineering and technological concepts, principles and methodologies in the environmental application of biotechnology.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the social, economic and legislative impact of biotechnology as applied to environment protection, pollution control and waste management.
• Acquire theoretical and practical tools for the development of ‘cleaner’ industrial processes having little or no adverse impact to the environment.
• Acquire mathematical and computational skills in analysing and providing solutions to environmental problems.
• Develop the ability to conduct independent engineering-based investigations within a chosen area, or areas, of environmental biotechnology and to demonstrate the skills for planning, executing, reporting and presenting the results of these investigations.

Why choose the MSc Environmental Biotechnology

• Develop advanced knowledge of fundamental scientific concepts underpinning environmental science and biotechnology.
• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the social, economic and legislative impact of biotechnology as applied to environmental protection, pollution control and waste management.
• Acquire theoretical and practical tools for the development of ‘cleaner’ industrial processes having little or no adverse impact to the environment.
• Acquire skills and knowledge to analyse research and develop new biotechnological solutions for environmental application
• Develop the ability to conduct independent scientific investigations within a chosen area, or areas, of environmental biotechnology and to develop the skills for planning, executing, reporting and presenting the results of these investigations.

The field of biotechnology has matured during the past decade encompassing, in addition to genetic engineering, the application of modern microbiological concepts to the new and rapidly developing field of environmental protection. The synthesis between microbiology and environmental engineering provides a means of understanding processes leading to pollution occurrence, detection, monitoring, prevention and control. Biotechnology offers both conventional and innovative solutions to problems associated with water pollution, contamination of the soil, the atmosphere, and the stratosphere.  Molecular genetics provides new techniques for the detection and modification of micro-organisms, for the degradation of hazardous chemicals, and as a means of safely controlling agricultural pests. Environmental biotechnology techniques, or bioprocesses, are now increasingly popular in the detection and treatment of wastes, wastewaters and other environmental contaminants.

What you study

Depending on the course chosen, you will study a selection from:
-    Microbial biotechnology
-    Industrial biotechnology
-    Analytical biotechnology
-    Food biotechnology
-    Molecular biotechnology and bioinformatics
-    Computation biology and statistics
-    Environmental systems modelling
-    Water quality management and water pollution control
-    Wastewater management and treatment
-    Environmental systems & sustainability
-    Project Management and Health & Safety
-    Solid waste management
-    Bioremediation of contaminated land
-    Research methods

On completion of the taught component of the course (i.e. Postgraduate Diploma stage), students may undertake research projects in any of the themes stated above for the award of MSc or MTech.  Most of the projects are industry-related.

The courses are designed and delivered by a team of leading academics with support from leading-edge industrial practitioners. The course delivery team is actively engaged in research and consultancy activities, through the Urban Water Technology Centre (UWTC). The Centre benefits from close links with the research groups the Scottish Informatics, Mathematics, Biology and Statistics Centre (SIMBIOS), and Abertay Centre for the Environment (ACE) who have been awarded the highest research rating in Environmental Science within Scotland. Emphasis is given to the practical application of environmental management within industry and commerce, in addition to the appropriate theoretical rigour.

How you learn
An integrated programme of lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical assignments, case studies and fieldwork are used to enhance your knowledge and understanding. Emphasis is placed on participation, and self-directed study. The project phase is designed to allow you to apply your studies within a chosen speciality.
   
How you are assessed
Assessments include a mixture of written coursework based on active case studies, presentations to demonstrate your knowledge, and exams. Students working towards the MSc qualification will also complete a dissertation.

By working within project groups and by yourself, you will improve your communication, project planning and teamwork skills, which are very important skills for any career. The MSc dissertation allows you to develop a specialist area of expertise.

Entry routes

A good Honours degree or equivalent in science disciplines (e.g. Environmental Science, Biological Sciences; Chemistry or Engineering) awarded by a recognised university or equivalent degree awarding institution.

Candidates with alternative qualifications and/or work experience will also be considered on an individual basis.

Overseas/EU
All applicants are required to provide certified proof of competence in English Language and the University's minimum requirements are listed here

Course content

More info

What our students say
“During my MSc programme, I got the opportunity to be exposed to a multidisciplinary approach to tackle problems that affect the environment and consequently people’s livelihoods from a microscopic to a macroscopic range. Accordingly, I developed a keen interest in waste management through the Waste and Contaminated Land Management module, and now I am studying for PhD in the subject area. This is very important for my home country Rwanda, which is currently experiencing substantial and accelerated development and the consequent waste management problems in urban areas.”
Sylvie, currently studying for a PhD

“My study at Abertay University has given me the opportunity to utilise modern research facilities to conduct excellent research. I am particularly impressed by the quality of the available facilities in the labs. I enjoyed my stay at Abertay University. The teaching environment was very conducive; the lecturers are professional and very up-to-date. It is also good having students from different parts of the world. I enjoyed the international environment here, especially in classes, which made it possible for us to share our different cultural experiences. My experience that I have acquired during my study, both academic and social, would be of immense benefit to my career in the future.”
Oluwatosun, Nigeria

Your future
Graduates have found employment in water companies and waste management sectors; biotechnology sector; production of diagnostic tools for the detection, monitoring and removal of environmental pollutants; biochemical/chemical and manufacturing sector; environmental consultancies; as well as in the public sector. Career paths include environmental investigation, scientific support, pollution control, policy advisors and managers. The course is also suitable for those wishing to undertake further studies for higher degrees or to establish businesses.

Students on the MSc Environmental Biotechnology will gain experience in the use of a wide range of biotechnology techniques to analyse and solve environmental problems. There is a strong emphasis on fundamental concepts and practical hands-on laboratory-based training on sophisticated analytical tools.

Students on the MTech Environmental Biotechnology also gain experience in the use of a wide range of biotechnology techniques to analyse and solve environmental problems. There is also a strong emphasis on the engineering application of environmental biotechnology, and the application of mathematical and computational skills in analysing and providing solutions to environmental problems.

More information
MSc MTech Environmental Biotechnology

Fees & Scholarships

Fee quoted is the total cost providing that the MSc follows on immediately after the PG Dip element and is completed within the same academic year as started.  Fees may be subject to increase.