Course Overview

Microbes are everywhere - inside our bodies, the air we breathe, and even the food we eat. They are so small that millions can fit into the eye of a needle, yet we couldn't exist without them.

Through specialist modules in medical, food, and environmental biotechnology, you'll explore how we exploit the diversity of microorganisms in producing drugs and food and decontaminating polluted environments.

Temporary work placements are available on this course on a competitive basis through the 'Microplacements' scheme. This will prepare you for employment in various occupations requiring specialist microbiology and biotechnology knowledge.

General Eligibility

Minimum year 1

SQA Higher

Standard Entry Requirement

BBBB includes Human Biology, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.

Minimum Offer Entry Requirement

BBCC includes Human Biology, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics.

A Level

BCC, including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Applied Science.

BTEC (QCF) Extended Diploma Level 3

Minimum grades DMM (Distinction, Merit, Merit) in a related subject.

BTEC (QCF) National Diploma Level 3 plus A Level

Minimum grades DM (Distinction, Merit) in a related subject.

A Level grade C

Irish Leaving Certificate

Grades H2/H2/H3/H3 including a Science subject (Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Award of Diploma with 28 points overall with three HL subjects at grades 6, 5, and 4, including a Science (Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, or Physics) at minimum grade 5.

T Level 

Grade M

T Level must be completed in a Science subject, or Level Science may be required.

Minimum Year 2

SQA Advanced Higher

BBC to include Biology

A Level

BBB to include Biology

HNC

Pass in a related subject* with a B in the graded unit

*Biomedical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Applied Science, Applied Bioscience, Wildlife and Conservation Management

Minimum Year 3

HND

Pass in a related subject* with Grades BB at SCQF Level 8 in the graded units.

*Biomedical Sciences, Biological Sciences, Applied Science, Wildlife and Conservation Management

Part Time Work Details

20 hours per week

Language Requirement

• IELTS (Academic)

  6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5

  TOEFL Internet-Based Test

  80 overall, with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking, and 17 in writing

  Pearson’s Test of Academic English

  56 overall, with a minimum of 51 in each component

  Cambridge C2 Proficiency (formerly Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE))

  169 overall, with a minimum of 162 in each component

  Cambridge B2 First (formerly Cambridge English First (FCE))

  169 overall, with a minimum of 162 in each component

  Cambridge C1 Advanced (formerly Cambridge English Advanced (CAE))

  169 overall, with a minimum of 162 in each component

  Trinity Integrated Skills Test (ISE)

  ISE II, ISE III, and ISE IV with a pass in each component

  LanguageCert English language qualification

  B2 Communicator Test with an overall 39 or above and 25 or above in all skills