Study biotechnology abroad

Find programs that match your goals quickly and easily using our advanced search filters

Image reflecting the subject area of Life & Natural Sciences

Apply to study abroad with Studee

We get it - applying to study abroad can be confusing. Here's why applying with Studee is the smarter move:

  • Illustration of a woman with purple hair, looking at a computer screen with a large magnifying glass, indicative of searching. She holds an orange book and wears a maroon colored top.

    Find your ideal program on Studee

    Search thousands of programs in a few clicks

  • Illustration of a hand holding a smartphone with a Studee logo, surrounded by a passport, a folder with papers and certificates, and a form.

    Apply to universities with Studee

    Get cheaper application fees at many universities

  • Illustration of a hand stamping a document. Beside the hand, a large orange cross symbol and a large purple check mark symbol representing approval and rejection options.

    We perfect your application

    Our experts help you improve your application

  • Illustration of a smiling person with reddish-purple hair holding an envelope containing a document labeled 'OFFER' with a university building in the background.

    Get a place at your perfect university

    We talk to the university to get a decision quickly

  • Find the best match - discover programs and universities that fit your goals and budget

  • Get expert advice, anytime - from application to enrollment, we're here to help

  • Faster applications - apply to multiple universities on one website

  • Visa guidance - step-by-step support to help you get your visa in time for your studies

  • Know if you're eligible - we make sure you've got everything you need to apply

  • Know exactly what to do, when - we'll guide you step by step through the admission process

Find your perfect biotechnology programs abroad

Find biotechnology programs you love that match your needs and aspirations, where you stand a high chance of acceptance.

Biotechnology degrees 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.

Why study biotechnology abroad

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.

Illustration of an open book surrounded by icons representing education and travel, including a globe, graduation cap, airplane, suitcase, and famous landmarks, all emanating from the pages.

Biotechnology program structure

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.

Illustration featuring a variety of academic and scientific symbols, including a graduation cap on top of a profile of Einstein's head, a book, a ruler, a lightbulb, a microscope, a DNA helix, and molecular structure, against a backdrop of a university building with trees and clouds.

Where to study biotechnology abroad

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.

Illustration of famous landmarks like a tower, a classical building, and a modern skyscraper; a location marker, interconnected on a map-like layout with trees and clouds.

Best countries to study biotechnology

Many of the best programs for biotechnology and biological science subjects can be found in the USA and Europe. The universities with the best reputations for science and technology are often where you’ll find the top biotechnology degree programs.

In Europe, the UK is perhaps the number one destination as it offers a number of top-ranked programs. France is also popular as it has a strong biotech industry, especially in the medical technology sector.

Switzerland and Germany are both home to a number of large biotech and pharmaceutical companies, making them an attractive option for those looking for a career after graduation.

Best universities to study biotechnology

To help you work out where the best university for you to study biotechnology, there are a few factors worth considering, including:

  • The program structure, curriculum, and content, e.g. does it cover the areas you’re interested in
  • Does the university offer internships, work placements or career support as part of the program
  • How well is the university ranked for its biotechnology programs
  • What organizations, accommodation, activities and sports teams the university offers
  • The location of the university

It’s important to think about factors both inside and outside of the classroom when making your decision. Although finding the best possible program is important, you also need to make sure you’ll enjoy your time studying abroad.

Biotechnology study abroad programs

You can study biotechnology abroad at undergraduate and postgraduate level. As an undergraduate, most programs are offered as a Bachelor of Science (BSc).

At graduate you can study a master’s degree in biotechnology as an MSc, or some universities offer Master of Research (MRes) degrees. If you already have a master’s degree and want to continue your education, it’s possible to study for a PhD or MPhil in biotechnology.

What are the top biotechnology undergraduate programs abroad?

See all undergraduate degrees in biotechnology abroad

What are the top biotechnology postgraduate programs abroad?

See all postgraduate degrees in biotechnology abroad

Entry requirements to study biotechnology 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.

Illustration of academic elements representing admission requirements, including a graduation cap, clock, documents, resumes, ID card, a calendar, and a clipboard.

Future biotechnology careers

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.

Illustration of a student reading a book, surrounded by various symbolic elements including a scroll, pencil, question mark, briefcase, plant, skyscraper, and coins, representing education and growth.

Alternative life & natural sciences degrees