Master of Biotechnology - 2019

The Master of Biotechnology integrates biotechnology and entrepreneurship through a range of multidisciplinary coursework, research and work-integrated units in modern areas of studies.

In the first year (Part A) of the course, you will be taught theoretical knowledge and practical skills in contemporary biotechnology-related topics, and the processes involved in obtaining research funding and translating biomedical products from lab to life.

In the second year (Part B) of the course, students who have 70% and above average in their first-year studies will have the opportunity to undertake a 6-month industry placement in pharmaceutical, medical device, life science and/ or regulatory organisation. You will also have the option to undertake a research project, where you will work closely with experts in a specialised area of research to advance knowledge of human diseases, and explore therapeutic targets for the prevention and treatment of these conditions. In addition, Part B offers a range of coursework electives in interdisciplinary field of pioneering developments in biotechnology research and enterprise.

These course outcomes are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework level 9 and Monash Graduate AttributesAustralian Qualifications Framework level 9 and Monash Graduate Attributes (http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/handbooks/alignmentofoutcomes.html).

Upon successful completion of this this course, it is expected that you will be able to:

1. demonstrate mastery in theoretical knowledge in major contemporary fields of biotechnology and its applications
2. differentiate between the processes involved in the development, regulation, commercialisation and marketing of biotechnological products
3. identify the ethical issues relating to research and the research question in the field of biotechnology and where, appropriate, apply ethical principles to the conduct of research within this field
4. initiate new or innovative research informed approaches to resolving practical challenges within the field of medical biotechnology
5. demonstrate proficiency in laboratory based technologies and techniques fundamental to biotechnological research
6. critically appraise and interpret the implications of data arising from these technologies and techniques
7. plan, justify and implement research in the field of medical biotechnology
8. apply effective and strategic problem-solving, organisational and teamwork skills to the field of biotechnology
9. effectively implement and evaluate technological advancements in biotechnology within workplace settings.

The course is structured in two parts: Part A. Core Biotechnology studies and Part B. Application studies. All students complete Part A. Depending upon prior qualifications, you may receive credit for Part B.

Note: If you are eligible for credit for prior studies you may elect not to receive the credit.

Part A. Core biotechnology studies

These studies present theoretical knowledge in key areas of biotechnology and its applications. You will gain a critical understanding of the designs and methods used in undertaking medical research, and the opportinities and challenges involved in the commercialisation of biotechnology.

Part B. Application studies

In these studies, you will focus on the application of advanced biotechnology practice. You will consolidate your skills, and knowledge and demonstrate your mastery through either a research project and/ or an industry placement program.

The course comprises 96 points structured into two parts: Part A. Core Biotechnology (48 points) and Part B: Application Studies (48 points).

If you are admitted at:

• entry level 1 you complete 96 points, comprising Parts A and B.
• entry level 2 you complete 48 points, comprising Part A.

Note: If you are eligible for credit for prior studies you may elect not to receive the credit and complete the higher credit point option.

The course progression mapcourse progression map (http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/2019handbooks/maps/map-m6030.pdf) provides guidance on unit enrolment for each semester of study.

Units are 6 credit points unless otherwise stated.

Part A. Core biotechnology studies (48 points)

You must complete:

• BRM5011 Foundations for medical biotechnology and its applications
• BRM5012 Techniques in medical biotechnology: genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics
• BRM5013 Techniques in medical biotechnology: Imaging, iPS cells, cell and gene therapies
• GEN5010 Advanced genetics and biotechnology
• BMS5005 Regenerative medicine and stem cells
• BEX5411 Creativity and entrepreneurship
• BMS5007 Biotechnology: Commercialising biomedical science
• BRM5014 Therapeutic approaches and biotechnology

Part B. Application studies (48 points)

You must complete either a. or b. below.

a. Research pathway:

• BRM5021 Biotechnology research project (48 points)

b. Coursework pathway:

• BRM5022 Biotechnology work-integrated learning (24 points)*
• four units from the elective list below

* In order to be eligible for the industry placement, you need to have an average of more than 70% in your core biotechnology studies (Part A). If you do not meet this requirement, then you must undertake the research pathway.

Elective list

• MTE5885 Biomaterials and Biomechanics
• MPH5269 Foundations of health policy
• FOR5007 Elements of forensic toxicology
• BFC5925 Financial management theory
• MPH5266 Clinical leadership and management
• MEC5889 Medical device technologies
• EPM5023 Foundations of international health
• MPH5272 Principles of health systems

You may exit this course early and apply to graduate with the following award, provided you have satisfied the requirements for that award during your enrolment in this master's course:

• Graduate Diploma of Biotechnology after successful completion of Part A.

Successful completion of this course may provide a pathway to a higher degree by research if you are admitted at entry level 1 completing the research pathway (48 points) in Part B. If you are admitted and entry level 2 you will normally already have an honours degree, however, if you are in this group and wish to complete a research pathway you should discuss the options with the course coordinator.