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Course overview

The BSc (Hons) Biotechnology at the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) equips students with cutting-edge knowledge and practical skills to drive innovation in industries like healthcare, renewable energy, and crop and food production.

This three-year degree combines core modules in molecular biology, genomics, and proteomics with specialised topics such as genetic engineering of microorganisms and crops, industrial bioprocesses and bioproducts, pharmaceuticals, and food hygiene and safety, ensuring a holistic understanding of the field.

Students gain hands-on experience through state-of-the-art laboratory work, industrial placements, and a comprehensive final-year research project, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The programme is underpinned by the University of Nottingham’s globally recognised research expertise, providing a curriculum shaped by the latest advancements.

With a focus on professional development, teamwork, and ethical responsibility, graduates are well-prepared for dynamic roles in biotechnology or further studies. Accredited by relevant bodies, this programme offers a pathway to global career opportunities in biosciences, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable industries

Why choose this course?

  • Comprehensive Knowledge: Gain a solid foundation in biotechnology, covering molecular biology, genetics, industrial biotechnology, and sustainability.
  • State-of-the-Art Facilities: Gain hands-on experience in purpose-built labs and research centres, including the Biotechnology Research Laboratory, Mammalian Cell Culture Laboratory, Biobanking Laboratory, and Centre of Excellence for Post-Harvest Biotechnology
  • Global Expertise: Our programme features industrial partnerships with topics delivered by experts, offering students valuable insights through guest speakers.
  • Career-Focused Skills Our programme includes industrial placements in Year 2, providing hands-on experience essential for career growth, job prospects, and entrepreneurship.
  • International Experience: Students can study at our Nottingham UK campus for one semester or a full academic year through the exchange programme.

Modules

Core modules

  • Introduction to Biotechnology
  • The Biosciences and Global Food Security
  • Introduction to Genetics and Biochemistry
  • Plant Science
  • Microbial Physiology
  • Statistical Skills for Bioscientists
  • Human Physiology
  • Essential Study Skills

Core modules

  • Microbial Biotechnology
  • Molecular Biology and the Cell
  • Molecular Pharming and Biotechnology
  • Professional Skills for Bioscientists
  • Research Skills for Biotechnologists
  • Principles of Immunology 

Optional modules

  • Agrifood Production Systems
  • Biochemical Engineering
  • Biotechnology for industries
  • Epigenetics and Developmental Biotechnology
  • Food Hygiene and Safety
  • Food Materials and Ingredients 
  • Industrial placement in Biotechnology 

Core modules

  • Undergraduate Research Project
  • Applied Bioethics: Sustainable Food Production, Biotechnology and the Environment
  • Commercialisation in Biotechnology
  • Current Issues in Biotechnology

Optional modules

  • Advanced Postharvest Technology
  • Basic Introduction to Omic Technologies
  • Biochemical Engineering
  • Biotechnology in Animal Physiology
  • Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
  • Plants and Their Environment
  • Postharvest and Preservation Technology
  • Therapeutic Immunology

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

A Level BCC, including two science-based subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics. Excludes Critical Thinking and General Studies.
IB Diploma 24 points with 5 and 4 at Higher Level, including two science-based subjects such as Biology (HL), Chemistry (HL), Physics (HL), or Mathematics (HL).
STPM BC+C+, including two science-based subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics. Excludes Pengajian Am.
UEC 3 B3s and 2 B4s, including two science-based subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics, excluding Bahasa Malaysia and Chinese Language.
Australian Year 12 ATAR 78. Applicants are required to meet specific grade standards in two science-based subjects, such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics, aligned with A Level subject requirements. To fulfil these A Level standards, specific grade equivalents in the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (SSCE) are required.
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 75% average based on 6 subjects, including two science-based subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics. Applicants must meet specific grade requirements for subjects required at A Level: 75% for C and 81% for B.

Canadian Secondary School Diplomas from other provinces are acceptable and will be assessed based on the University’s requirements.
Gaokao (NCEE) and Senior High School Diploma (China) 68% average in the Gaokao, including two science-based subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics, with one subject at 75% and the other at 73%. In addition, a minimum of 70% overall in the Senior High School Diploma, with at least 70% in Mathematics and two Science subjects, which must include Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.

Gaokao scores are converted from 750 to a percentage scale.
Senior School Certificate Examination (CBSE) / Indian School Certificate (CISCE) - Class XII 75% average from the best four subjects, including two science-based subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics, with one subject at 80% and the other at 70%. Excludes local language, Environmental Education, General Studies, and Physical Education.
Advance Placement (AP) 4, 3, 3, including two science-based subjects such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Calculus, or AP Physics.
Diploma - Local Institutions Entry to Year 2 is assessed on a case-by-case basis, typically requiring a GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 and good grades in relevant subjects, including two science-based subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics.
Foundation - Local Institutions Acceptance is at the School’s discretion and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 and good grades in relevant subjects, including two science-based subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Mathematics.
Nottingham's Foundation Programme Successful completion is required with an overall minimum average of 50%.

In addition to the entry requirements listed above, applicants must have at least a credit (normally grade C) in Mathematics at SPM/GCSE/IGCSE/High School Diploma or equivalent. This requirement can be waived if applicants have obtained a similar or equivalent grade at a higher level.

This list is not exhaustive, and we accept a wide range of qualifications. Eligibility will be fully determined upon the submission of a completed application.

IELTS (Academic):

6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in each element)

TOEFL (iBT):

 80 (minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in Reading and 20 in Speaking)

PTE (Academic):

65 (with no less than 59 in each element)

GCE A Level English Language or English Literature:

Grade C

GCE AS Level English Language or English Literature:

Grade C

SPM:

CEFR level B2

GCSE O-Level:

Grade C / 6

IGCSE (first language):

Grade C / 6

IGCSE (second language):

Grade B / 6

MUET:

Band 4

UEC:

Grade B3

IB English A1 or A2 (Standard or Higher Level):

4 points

IB English B (Higher Level):

4 points

IB English B (Standard Level):

5 points

OSSD English (ENG3U/ENG4U) (No fast-track route):

75%

CBSE/CISCE Class XII or Class X:

70% overall (confirmation of English as the medium of instruction required)
  • IELTS (Academic), TOEFL iBT, and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old.
  • IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted.
  • IELTS Academic Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, and PTE Academic Online are not accepted.
  • MUET results are valid for five years from the release date.
  • OSSD English (ENG3U/ENG4U) with the required grades will only be accepted if applicants have completed all 30 credits from standard OSSD courses, not through credit exemptions. Fast-track routes are not accepted.
  • CBSE/CISCE Class XII or Class X English with the required grades will only be accepted if applicants provide a confirmation letter stating that English was the medium of instruction throughout schooling from Class X to Class XII.

Foundation progression options

The Nottingham's Foundation Programme is a 1-year pre-university course that prepares students for direct progression to UNM’s undergraduate degrees. It builds a strong academic foundation while enhancing language, critical thinking, and study skills. Students can also explore elective modules tailored to their chosen degree pathway.

Learning and assessment

How you will learn

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • Workshops
  • Supervision
  • Practical classes
  • Field trips
  • Lab sessions
  • Computer labs

How you will be assessed

  • Coursework
  • Group coursework
  • Dissertation
  • Examinations
  • Presentation
  • Essay
  • Poster presentation
  • Practical write-ups
  • Research project
  • Reflective review

Applying

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for undergraduate courses.

How to apply

Fees

ResidencyFees
Malaysian studentsRM52,000 per year
International studentsRM58,000 per year

Where you will learn

Malaysia Campus

Semenyih Campus is 48km from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and just 45 minutes’ drive from the famous city centre with its iconic Petronas Twin Towers. On arrival, you are immersed in the green jungle backdrop that Malaysia provides with wildlife, sunshine and campus lake.

The campus is home to our business, education, science and engineering schools, which sit alongside a sports centre, library and student accommodation. The University has everything a modern day student could wish for with the added bonus of being located in central Asia allowing you to travel further afield in your free time.

Public transport is plentiful with free shuttle services operating on some routes. Taxi/Grab services in Malaysia are very reasonable and used widely by the student community.

Careers

Laying a solid foundation in this field, this programme enables our graduates to pursue careers in various roles and industries.

  • Clinical Product Specialist
  • Biotechnology Consultant
  • Food Product Consultant
  • Research Scientist
  • Biotechnical Engineer
  • Patent Specialist

Are you ready to embark on an exciting career journey after graduation? At the University of Nottingham Malaysia, our Careers Advisory Service is here to support your career aspirations. We offer a range of professional services, including résumé writing assistance and interview preparation, to equip you with the tools needed to excel in today’s competitive job market. Contact careers@nottingham.edu.my to learn more.

Frequently asked questions

Biotechnology offers numerous future opportunities for those interested in the field. As a biotechnologist, you can work in various settings such as clinical laboratories, regulatory bodies, private companies, and government agencies.

Following are some career options for students who graduate with a biotechnology degree:

  • Research and Development (R&D) Scientist
  • Medical Product Specialist
  • Food Product Scientist
  • Agriculture Scientist
  • Biotechnology Consultant
  • Microbiologist
  • Patent Technical Specialist
  • Health and Safety Officer

The promising benefits of biotechnological innovations have prompted the Malaysian government to take initiatives in creating a favourable ecosystem for the growth and advancement of the industry.

In 2022, an announcement was made regarding the implementation of the National Biotechnology Plan 2.0. This strategic plan aims to harness the strengths of biotechnology to propel Malaysia towards achieving a high technology status by 2030. The plan specifically focuses on vital areas such as agriculture and food security, healthcare and wellbeing, as well as the industrial and circular economy.

These efforts demonstrate the government's commitment to nurturing the biotechnology sector and utilising its potential for the overall development and progress of the country.

Yes, the BSc (Hons) Biotechnology programme at UNM incorporates industrial training or internships to provide practical experience and exposure to real-world applications of biotechnology.

Yes, upon completion of this programme, you can consider pursuing postgraduate studies such as MSc Biotechnology or Biosciences MRes/MPhil/PhD programme at UNM to further enhance your expertise and research capabilities. 

Yes, the university has various scholarships and financial assistance schemes for deserving students.

This content was last updated on 17 February 2025. Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.