Study biotechnology abroad

Biotechnology, often referred to as biotech, is a science that uses biology and living organisms to develop new technologies and products. It develops breakthrough technologies and products that aim to improve the quality of our lives and the world around us.

It is at the forefront when it comes to tackling some of the biggest global issues, including healthcare, the environment and food supply. Choosing to study biotechnology abroad could put you at the cutting edge of new technology, and be a part of exciting new scientific discoveries.

Biotechnology is an exciting and dynamic subject that will put you on the cutting edge of new scientific discoveries. Choosing to study this relatively new area abroad means you could access more established and advanced facilities and programs than you might be able to find at home.

Choosing to spend several years living and studying abroad is also a fantastic opportunity to experience a new culture, make lifelong friends from other countries and improve your language skills. Learn more about the benefits of studying abroad here.

Biotechnology and bioscience degrees aim to give students a strong grounding in a range of science areas including chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology.

What’s covered in biotechnology programs can vary widely between different universities and in different countries. Some focus more on certain aspects, whereas others try to offer a more rounded overview. Subjects and modules you can expect to study include:

• Biochemistry and molecular biology
• Chemistry
• Microbiology
• Proteins and enzymes
• Genetics
• Cell biology
• Pharmacology

The teaching methods will also depend on the university, as well as the course content and structure. However, most biotechnology programs are hands-on so there will be practical lab work as well as lectures, tutorials, and seminars.

The program assessment will usually be made up of a combination of coursework, written exams, essays, research projects, presentations, and write-ups of practical laboratory work.

Biotechnology programs are offered in many countries all over the world, so it can be tricky deciding on the best place to study. To help you make the right decision, think about:

• Your plans after graduation

  If you want to pursue your career in biotechnology in the same country you study in, look at which countries offer the best job opportunities.

• The quality of the program

  Look at the facilities each university offers, how it ranks for its biotechnology programs and read reviews of previous students to get an idea of the quality of education you’ll get.

• The type of country you want to live in

  Think about things like the climate, culture and politics of each country to make sure the location you choose is somewhere you’ll enjoy living.

For more help making the right decision, read our guide on choosing where to study abroad.

The entry requirements you’ll need to meet to be accepted onto a biotechnology program will vary depending on the university you’re applying to. As a general rule you’ll need:

• Completed secondary education with good grades in relevant subjects - many programs require strong grades in chemistry, mathematics and one other science subject
• A personal statement that outlines your interest in the biotechnology and your plans after graduation
• English language proficiency test scores
• Academic references
• A bachelor’s degree in biotechnology to study at postgraduate level

The application process will also differ depending on the country your applying to. Some countries use a centralized application service (like UCAS in the UK) but in many other countries you send your application directly to the university.

For more information on the application process, read our guide on how to study abroad.

There are a wide variety of exciting and lucrative career options for biotechnology graduates. Here are some of the careers you could consider:

• Biomedical engineer
• Biochemist/biophysicist
• Medical lab technician
• Epidemiologist
• Microbiologist
• Research scientist
• Animal scientist
• Agricultural engineer
• Soil and plant scientist

If you know what career you want to pursue once you have your degree, make sure the program you choose gives you the best chance of qualifying for that job.