87.7% employed within four months of graduating.
Graduate Outcomes Survey 2021-2023 - Undergraduate Science and Mathematics
Degree overview
Develop technologies that improve our communities and the health of our planet
The products of biotechnology are all around us in all aspects of our everyday lives. With the recent development of the COVID-19 vaccines, biotechnology has reached new prominence. As a biotechnologist you can be right at the forefront of scientific innovation and the next big discovery.
Harness the natural biochemical processes and the wide genetic landscapes of living organisms to benefit the modern world. Biotechnology applies to aspects of genetic engineering, pharmaceuticals, plant and animal agriculture, conservation, food production, renewable fuel development and waste management. The diversity of jobs available in the biotechnology industry continues to increase.
10-weeks
full-time industrial placement in final year
World top 250
?
for Life Sciences
Career opportunities
Biotechnology is a broad industry with a large array of career options after graduation. Some of these jobs will depend on the amount and level of study, level of experience, the combination of other majors and electives studied.
Professional outcomes:
- Biochemist
- Food Scientist
- Forensic Biologist
- National Park Ranger
- Pharmaceutical Scientist
- Reproductive Medicine/IVF Specialist
Course overview
Your study will have a strong focus on biology − both basic and applied with some chemistry and mathematics − and you will have a chance to enrol in elective courses from a range of areas depending on your interests and career ambitions. You'll study:
- biochemistry
- biotechnology finance and commercialisation
- cell and molecular biology
- DNA and gene technology
- laboratory skills in biological systems
- 'IVF'; and reproductive science and physiology
- statistics for the sciences
Student experience
Creating meaningful opportunities for students 0:44
At the University of Newcastle, we embed practical, hands-on learning in all our degrees. Check out just some of the opportunities our students have had to build their experience.
Career-ready placements
This program features a 10-week full-time industrial or research placement. This allows you to apply what you have learned to a biotechnology environment and elevate your scientific communication skills, altogether broadening your experience.
Across the third year of the degree, you will also spend time in laboratory training. These intensive laboratory courses feature hands-on learning and teamwork activities that prepare you for the workplace.
Studying at Newcastle campus
Living in Newcastle
Nestled on Australia's spectacular east coast and surrounded by some of the state's most popular destinations, Newcastle is an all-round wonderful choice as a safe and friendly place to live.
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Campus Life
Our campuses are welcoming, inspiring, and collaborative places for students, staff, and the community. Explore our beautiful campuses and discover what it’s like to study at the University of Newcastle.
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Scholarships
Our scholarships recognise achievement and support enthusiastic and dedicated students. If you are a current student, or planning to study with us, we encourage you to apply for all scholarships you meet the criteria for.
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Accommodation
Living on campus is an experience unlike any other. Whether you're from across Australia or around the globe, your home on campus is where you'll form lifelong friendships and harness your potential in a supportive and diverse community.
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Student showcase
Meet Sadia, a Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours) student 1:47
Through a Bachelor of Biotechnology you can learn about human and animal diseases, climate change, fuel alternatives and food security. Sadia talks about her experience studying a Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours) at The University of Newcastle.
Biotechnology Career Conversations with Kirby Clarke 3:00
Hear from Biotechnology alum, Kirby Clarke, about her career progression since graduating from the University of Newcastle in 2004.
How to apply
Apply as a domestic student
You are a domestic student if you are:
- An Australian or New Zealand citizen (including dual citizens)
- A permanent resident of Australia
- A holder of a permanent Australian visa.
Apply as an international student
Entry requirements — Senior secondary school qualification
Admission to our undergraduate degree programs usually requires successful completion of a senior secondary school qualification similar to the Higher School Certificate (HSC), the highest educational award in New South Wales schools.
English proficiency requirements
Applicants who do not speak English as a first language must demonstrate that they meet the University's English proficiency requirement. Further information regarding English language proficiency requirements can be found at the English Language Proficiency for Admission Policy.
- IELTS overall minimum - 6.0
- IELTS section minimum - 6.0
- About English Language Pathways
Apply to the University via our online application portal.
In the application portal, you can enter the program you wish to study and upload relevant documents needed as part of your application. It is recommended you submit your application a minimum of 12 weeks before your intended semester of trimester start date.
If you are applying through an education agent, they can also apply through the application portal. Ensure your agent is contracted to the University to avoid delays with your application.
Once you have started your application you will be provided with a reference number. You or your education agent will be able to track your application as it progresses.
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1 Indicative annual fees are based on a full year full time load (80 units). Learn more.
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Graduates may apply for membership to AusBiotech, Australia’s Biotechnology Organisation.
Graduates may apply for membership with specialist societies including the Australian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website. However, changes to courses and programs may occur. The University accepts no responsibility for any information supplied on this web site or any actions taken on the basis of the information. Users are advised to seek confirmation of the information from the relevant area of the University.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.