Master of Science (Biotechnology)
(MQA/SWA0351)
Enroll Now in UTM’s Master of Science (Biotechnology) Programme
Are you looking to advance your career in biotechnology? Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is offering a Master of Science (Biotechnology) programme designed for individuals eager to excel in this dynamic field. Accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), this 3-semester programme follows a mixed mode that blends coursework and research, offering students comprehensive, industry-relevant knowledge.
Why You Should Enroll with Us:
- Newly Integrated Curriculum: The curriculum is carefully structured to cover essential biotechnology subjects, combining life science expertise with practical applications.
- Graduate in Two Years: Complete your Master’s degree in just three semesters if you successfully pass all required coursework and research components.
- High-Quality Research: The programme ensures meticulous supervision and high standards of research quality, providing students with credible academic and professional credentials.
- Expert Guidance: Learn directly from experienced lecturers and professors who bring real-life industry case studies into the classroom.
- Access to Top Facilities: Enjoy full access to UTM’s world-class library, health services, and affordable on-campus accommodations.
Entry Requirements:
- A CGPA of 2.75 and above, or a lower CGPA (as specified) with rigorous internal assessment or relevant work experience.
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as Biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or Bioprocess Engineering.
- English proficiency via TOEFL or IELTS is required.
Intakes:
We have two intakes per year in March and October. Be part of the next cohort and enhance your biotechnology career.
For more details:
- Visit our website.
- Apply now at admission.utm.my.
For inquiries, contact Dr. Nurliyana at +6012-5156246 or Dr. Huszalina at +6013-7808840.
Advance your knowledge and career with UTM’s Biotechnology programme today!
Programme Structure:
This 42-credit programme includes:
- Core Courses: Covering critical subjects such as Research Methodology, Microbial Physiology, Bioreactor Design, and Industrial Technology.
- Elective Courses: Tailored options like Bioinformatics, Environmental Bioengineering, and Agricultural Practices.
- Research Course: Conduct comprehensive research culminating in a dissertation.
- Master of Science (Biotechnology)
- Entry Requirement
- Programme Objectives
- Programme Learning Outcomes
- Classification of Subjects
- Programme Structure
- Mapping
- Career Prospects
- MSCB Programme Workflow
| Awarding Institution | Universiti Teknologi Malaysia | |||
| Teaching Institution | Universiti Teknologi Malaysia | |||
| Programme Name | Master of Science (Biotechnology) | |||
| Final Award |
Master of Science (Biotechnology) | |||
| NEC Code |
0512 | |||
| Programme Code | MSCB2 | |||
| NEC code | 0512 (Biochemistry) | |||
| Professional or Statutory Body of Accreditation |
Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education Kementerian Pengajian Tinggi Malaysia |
|||
| Language(s) of Instructions |
English | |||
| Mode of Study | Conventional | |||
| Mode of operation | Self-govern | |||
| Study Scheme | Full Time | |||
| Study Duration |
Minimum: 1½ years Maximum: 4 years |
|||
| Type of Semester | No. of semesters | No. of weeks per semester | ||
| Full Time | Part-time | Full Time | Part-time | |
| Normal | 3 | – | 14 | – |
Entry requirement of Master of Science (Biotechnology) by mixed mode:
University Entry Requirement
A bachelor’s degree in the field or related fields with a minimum CGPA of 2.75 or equivalent, as accepted by the HEP Senate; or
A bachelor’s degree in the field or related fields or equivalent with a minimum CGPA of 2.50 and not meeting CGPA of 2.75, can be accepted subject to rigorous internal assessment; or
A bachelor’s degree in the field or related fields or equivalent with a minimum CGPA of 2.00 and not meeting CGPA 2.50, can be accepted subject to a minimum of 5 years working experience in the relevant field and rigorous internal assessment.
Faculty Entry Requirement
Bachelor of Science (Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Microbiology, Bioscience, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Bioprocess Engineering, Genetics of equivalent) with CPA ≥ 3.0 will be considered for this programme.
English Language Requirement
1. Student with TOEFL score if 60 and above can enroll at faculty
2. Students with TOEFL score of 60 and below required to attend either:
- Intensive English Programme (IEP) conducted by Language Academy (LA), UTM and pass IELTS with a minimum of 6.0 or pass CEFR – aligned test with the required score; Or
- Certified Intensive English Programme (CIEP) conducted by ELS Language Center and pass level 108
3. Student with IELTS band 6.0 and above can enroll at faculty
4. Student with band 5.5 and below are required to attend either:
- Intensive English Programme (IEP) conducted by Language Academy (LA), UTM and pass IELTS with a minimum of 6.0 or pass CEFR-aligned test with the required score; or
- Certified Intensive English Programme (CIEP) conducted by ELS Language Center and pass level 108
Note: Students entry requirement are subject to changes by School of Postgraduate Studies (SPS), UTM.
Below are program educational objectives (PEO) for graduates of Master of Science (Biotechnology):
| PEO | PEO Statement |
| PEO 1 | Competent in applying advanced knowledge towards solving Biotechnology problems to meet local and global needs |
| PEO 2 | Adaptable to changing situations with initiatives for career advancement through life-long learning |
| PEO 3 | Holistic leader who adhere to standards of ethical conduct within professional and societal setting |
Below are program learning outcomes for Master of Science (Biotechnology) program:
| PLO | PLO Statement |
|
PLO 1 (KW) |
Synthesize advanced knowledge, theories and concepts in biotechnology |
|
PLO 2 (CG) |
Produce innovative solutions to complex and current issues in biotechnology and related field. |
|
PLO 3 (PS) |
Use specific and advanced equipment in executing specialised Research Methodology to generate accurate and valid data |
|
PLO 4 (IPS) |
Collaborate effectively with different groups in learning and working communities |
|
PLO 5 (CS) |
Communicate effectively using appropriate media in delivering knowledge and ideas to the relevant communities |
|
PLO 6 (DS) |
Utilize a wide range of suitable digital technologies and appropriate software competently to enhance study and research |
|
PLO 7 (NS) |
Evaluate numerical and graphical data using relevant software as well as qualitative and quantitative methods for research. |
|
PLO 8 (LAR) |
Demonstrate leadership skills, autonomy and responsibility in supervising and managing an organization. |
|
PLO 9 (PRS) |
Demonstrate self-advancement through continuous academic and professional development |
|
PLO 10 (ENT) |
Initiate entrepreneurial ventures in biotechnology and related field. |
|
PLO 11 (ETS) |
Practice adherence to biosafety guidelines, professional ethics and legal norms. |
Keyword:
KW: Knowledge & Understanding
CG: Cognitive skills
PS: Practical skills
IPS: Interpersonal skills
CS: Communication skills
DS: Digital skills
NS: Numeracy skills
LAR: Leadership, autonomy and Responsibility
PRS: Personal skills
ENT: Enterpreneurship skills
ETS: Ethics & Proffesionalism skills
No. |
Classification |
Credit Hours |
Percentage (%) |
i. |
University General Course |
3 |
7.1 |
ii. |
Core Courses |
12 |
28.6 |
ii. |
Elective Courses |
6 |
14.3 |
ii. |
Research Course (Dissertation) |
21 |
50 |
|
|
Total |
42 |
100 |
Master of Science (Biotechnology) is a comprehensive postgraduate program by mixed mode consisting of 42 credits, and includes a 3-credit dissertation project. This program has been designed according to Biotechnology Program Standards 2nd edition set by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) with the aim to produce graduates with strong foundation in biotechnology, fostering both knowledge and skills.
Within the Department of Bioscience, students pursuing a Master of Science (Biotechnology) will acquire advanced knowledge, laboratory expertise, and research skills essential for a multidisciplinary approach to Biotechnology field. In addition to core subjects, the curriculum integrates specialized modules such as Tissue Culture Approaches in Industrial Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Agricultural Practices, Algae Biotechnology, Environmental Bioengineering, and Halal Industry Regulation, Management, and Practices. Under these modules, students were given opportunity for industrial visit to interact with industries and gain insights into real-world problems. Previously, the Agricultural Practice course involved student visits to various agricultural settings, such as indoor hydroponic farming at Sin Huat Marketing Sdn Bhd., outdoor farming at Harvest Rich Plantation Sdn Bhd., and an agrotourism farm at Agroprism Sdn Bhd. Additionally, the Environmental Bioengineering course included a visit to UTM Eco Park.
Within this program, students are evaluated through two assessment methods; a final examination and dissertation. In the third semester, students partake in a 6-month dissertation project based on their selection of two elective subjects from the aforementioned modules in semester 2. This practical experience not only enhances their research and laboratory skills but also open doors to diverse career opportunities in planning, management, research, academia, and related industries within the biotechnology sector.
The Master of Science (Biotechnology) can be completed in a minimum duration of one and a half years, with a maximum completion period of four years.
Award requirements:
To graduate, students should:
- achieve a total of minimum 42 credit hours with minimum CPA of 3.00
- complete and pass viva M.Sc dissertation.
| Course Category | Code | Course | Credit |
| University General Course (3 Credits) |
UXX 6XX3 | (Choose 1 courses from the list given by School of Graduate Studies) | 3 |
| Core Courses (12 Credits) |
MSCB 1403 | Research Methodology | 3 |
| MSCB 1113 | Biochemistry and Microbial Physiology | 3 | |
| MSCB 1813 | Protein Engineering | 3 | |
| MSCB 1523 | Industrial Technology & Bioreactor Design | 3 | |
| Elective Courses (6 credits) |
MSCB 1323 | (Select any 6 credits) Tissue Culture Approaches in Industrial Biotechnology |
3 |
| MSCB 1423 | Halal Industry Regulations, Management and Practices | 3 | |
| MSCB 1503 | Agricultural Practices | 3 | |
| MSCB 1203 | Algae Biotechnology | 3 | |
| MSCB 1223 | Environmental Bioengineering | 3 | |
| MSCB 1823 | Bioinformatics | 3 | |
| Research Course (21 credits) |
MSCB 1280 | Research Proposal (pre-requisite Research Methodology) | 3 |
| MSCB XX80 | Dissertation (pre-requisite Research Proposal) | 18 | |
| TOTAL CREDIT | 42 | ||
Mapping of Program Learning Outcomes to Course |
||||||||||||||
COURSES OFFERED |
Knowledge and understanding |
Cognitive Skills |
Practical Skills |
Numeracy Skills |
Interpersonal Skills |
Communication Skills |
Digital Skills |
Leadership, Autonomy and Responsibility |
Personal Skills |
Entrepreneurial Skills |
Ethics and Professional skills |
|||
Code |
Courses |
PLO1KW |
PLO2CG |
PLO3PS |
PLO7NS |
PLO4IPS |
PLO5CS |
PLO6DS |
PLO8LAR |
PLO9PRS |
PLO10ENT |
PLO11ETS |
||
University General Courses (Choose 1 from the list*) |
||||||||||||||
UXXX 6XX3 |
University Elective |
✔ |
||||||||||||
Core Courses -Compulsory |
||||||||||||||
MSCB 1403 |
Research Methodology |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|||||||
MSCB 1113 |
Biochemistry and Microbial Physiology |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
||||||||||
MSCB 1813 |
Protein Engineering |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|||||||||
MSCB 1523 |
Industrial Technology & Bioreactor Design |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|||||||||
Elective Course (Choose only 6 credits) |
||||||||||||||
MSCB 1323 |
Tissue Culture Approaches in Industrial Biotechnology |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|||||||||
MSCB 1423 |
Halal Industry Regulations, Management and Practices |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|||||||||
MSCB 1503 |
Agricultural Practices |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
||||||||
MSCB 1203 |
Algae Biotechnology |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|||||||||
MSCB 1223 |
Environmental Bioengineering |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|||||||||
MSCB 1823 |
Bioinformatics |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
|||||||||
Research Courses |
||||||||||||||
MSCB 1280 |
Research Proposal |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
||||||||
MSCB XX80 |
Dissertation |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
||||||||
|
Key: 1. Technical Skills: PLO1, 2, 3 and 7 2. Generic Skills: PLO 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10 and 11.
|
||||||||||||||
|
* List of University General Courses
|
||||||||||||||
Future prospects of the Master of Science (Biotechnology) graduates include:
- Academician
- Microbiologist
- Research officer
- Clinical manager
- Environmental Officer Quality Assurance Officer
- Postdoctoral researcher
- Corporate learning advisor
- Biotechnology engineer
- Professional editor
- Bio-entrepreneurs
- Enforcement officer
- Lab analyst & Executive
- Underwriting associate
- Equipment/ Chemical specialist
- Biomanufacturing Associate
- Product Specialist
- Consultant
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist
- Science Officer
- Research scientist
- Biotechnologist
or
further education in a PhD programme in related field of study.
MSCB PROGRAMME WORKFLOW (2023/2024-2)
| No | Activity | Week | Date | In charge/ Action taken by |
| 1 | Registration of new PG students | 0 | 10-16 March 2024 | Graduate Faculty |
| 2 | Meeting of students and briefing by Dean/ Deputy Dean of Academic | 0 | To be confirmed | TDA/ Coordinator/ Graduate Faculty/ Students |
| 3 | Deadline for academic staff to hand in titles of research to MSCB Program Coordinator | 3 | 1 April 2024 | Coordinator/ Academic Staff |
| 4 | Titles and name of supervisors will be announced to students | 3 | 4 April 2024 | Coordinator/ Graduate Faculty/ |
| 5 | Students need to choose and decide their MSCB dissertation title concerning the agreement from the respective supervisor | 4 | 7 April 2024 | Graduate Faculty/ Coordinator/ Students |
| 6 | The coordinator will compile and announce supervisor-students names | 4 | 11 April 2024 | Graduate Faculty/ Coordinator |
| 7 | An official letter for an appointment of supervisor will be issued | 5 | 16 April 2024 | Graduate Faculty/ Coordinator/ |
| 8 | Dateline for student to submit the first draft of a proposal to the Research Methodology Coordinator | To be confirmed | RM Coordinator | |
Attention:
- New students, or
- Those that still not have a supervisor
- This workflow is a guideline based on the UYM Work schedule 2023/2024
MSCB PROGRAMME WORK SCHEDULE (2023/2024-2)
| No | Activity | Week | Date | In charge/ Action taken by |
| 1 | Deadline for a student to submit a proposal to T05 PG academic office (att. to Mdm Farawahida) | 7 | 28 April-2 May 2024 | Student/Supervisor |
| 2 | Faculty will appoint examiners for proposal assessment | 8 | 5-9 May 2024 | Graduate Office Faculty/Supervisor/ Coordinator |
| 3 | Faculty will distribute proposals and proposal assessment form to respective examiners | 9 | 12-16 May 2024 | Panel of Examiners/ Coordinator |
| 4 | Examiners will submit completed proposal assessment forms to the faculty | 10-11 | 19-31 May 2024 | Panel of Examiner/Coordinator |
| 5 | Submission of Progress Report through GSMS System | 11-14 | 28 May-18 June 2024 | Student/ Supervisor/ Graduate Office Faculty |
| 6 | Faculty will issue official letter: Proposal result and permission to start lab work | 12-13 | 2-13 June 2024 | Student/Supervisor/ Coordinator |
Attention:
Guidelines above is based on the UTM Academic Calendar for:
- MSCB students Semester 2 who already have supervisor(s) and project titles
- Respective supervisors
Important notes:
- Students MUST submit their proposals before end of week 7.
- Faculty will appoint examiners for each project.
- Faculty will distribute the proposals and proposal assessment form to examiners during Week 9. The examiners have 2 weeks to assess the proposal ( Week 11-12)
- Proposal assessment forms should be submitted by the examiners to the Faculty (Mdm Farawahida) by end of Week 12.
- If the proposal evaluation is below 60%, the student will be deemed to have failed. The proposal must be corrected within 2 weeks to ensure they pass Dissertation 1.
Before beginning labwork, students must adhere to the following requirements:
- Attended the Lab Safety briefing
- Completed the Lab Safety Acknowledgement form with supervisor’s signature
- Completed the HIRARC form
DISSERTATION WORKFLOW (MSCB XX80)
|
No |
Activity | Week | Date | In charge/ Action taken by |
| 1 | Submission Notice of Dissertation |
2 (Minimum time |
24-28 March 2024 | Coordinator/Student |
| 2 | Submission of Progress Report through GSMS System | 11-14 | 26 May-20 June 2024 | Student/Supervisor/Graduate Office |
| 3 | Final date for Submission of Dissertation | 20 June 2024 | Student/Supervisor/Graduate Office | |
| 4 | Mini-viva | To be confirmed | Student/Supervisor/Graduate Office | |
| 5 | Submission of corrected version of the Dissertation – Hardcover | Depends on the Mini-viva result | Student/Supervisor/Graduate Office | |
| 6 | Meeting of Faculty’s Postgraduate Committee on Examination Results | To be confirmed | Graduate Office | |
| 7 | JKTS Meeting :Results Approval | To be confirmed | University level | |
IMPORTANT NOTES :
Guidelines is based on the UTM Academic Calendar
Attention to students that registered MSCB XX80 dissertation:
1. Deadlines MUST be followed to ensure students could graduate on time.
2. Please be reminded that the “Notice of Dissertation Submission” (form MS B-4) should be handed in 3 months prior the thesis submission. The form can be obtained through PG office (Madam Farawahida)
3. Please allow 1-2 weeks for examiners to assess the thesis before the mini viva.
4. Students who fail to submit their dissertation for assessment by week 15-16 re still allowed to submit thesis by 20 June 2024 to prevent incurring additional fee charges for the upcoming semester, PROVIDED that student have submitted the Notice of thesis submission. Students choosing this option will not be able to graduate on time.
At the end of the viva, the student will be given one of these recommendations, the candidate :
- will be awarded The Degree of Master (no corrections)
- will be awarded The Degree of Master subject to minor corrections (1 Month)
- will be awarded The Degree of Master subject to amendments and corrections listed to the satisfaction of examiners (3 Months)
- will NOT be awarded The Degree of Master but is permitted to resubmit the thesis for further examination in a revised form after an additional period of study and research
- failed and will NOT be awarded The Degree of Master
MSCB Programme SOP for Research Methodology Course and other subject with final exam (2023/2024-1)
|
No |
Activity | Week | Date | In charge/ Action taken by |
| 1 | Quiz and Test 1 mark distribution to the students | 7 | 19-23 November | Academic staff |
| 2 | Application for Course Withdrawal | 6-9 | 12-30 November 2023 | Students/PG office |
| 3 | Announcement for the Deadline of Course Withdrawal | 9 | 7 December 2023 | PG office |
| 4 | Application for deferment for withdrawal of program | 7-15 |
19 November 2023- 18 January 2024 |
Students/PG office |
| 5 | Announcement for the Deadline of Application for deferment or withdrawal of program | 15 | 18 January 2024 | PG office |
| 6 | Carry marks announcement to the students | 15 | 14-18 January 2024 | Academic staff |
| 7 | Revision Week | 16 | 21-25 January 2024 | Students |
| 8 | Final Examination | 17-19 | 28 January – 15 Februrary 2024 | Academic staff & students |
NOTES :
- Those that still not register Research Methodology (RM) course or failed RM course cannot register Research Proposal
- You cannot register RM course together with Research Proposal
- You cannot register Dissertation until you completed and passed entirely the courses and Research Proposal
- Those that fail Research Proposal cannot register Dissertation
- You cannot continue your lab work until you have register your Dissertation in the following semester
Apply Now!
Find a Supervisor
Our academic staff are committed to delivering a student experience that is second to none. Visit the departments at the Faculty of Science for further information on our expert academic staff. (Our Researchers)
Programme Fees
Financial Assistance & Scholarship
Other Programmes
- Taught Course
- Taught Course & Research
- Research