Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology MSc
The University of Edinburgh
Student rating
This is the overall rating calculated by averaging all live reviews for this uni on Whatuni.
( 4.2) View reviews

Want to know what it's like to study this course at uni? We've got all the key info, from entry requirements to the modules on offer. If that all sounds good, why not check out reviews from real students or even book onto an upcoming open days?

Different course options
2 options available
academic-cap
Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

location-pin
Location

The King's Buildings Campus

beaker
Study mode

Full Time

calendar
Start date

SEP

time
Duration

1 Year

Course info

Select a course option


Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

The King's Buildings Campus

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-26

Duration

1 Year

SELECT

Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

The King's Buildings Campus

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP

Duration

1 Year

SELECTED

Subjects

Select a subject


Biological Sciences
SELECTED

Exam type

Select a an exam type


Location

Select student location


Domestic
SELECTED

England
SELECT

Wales
SELECT

Northern Ireland
SELECT

EU
SELECT

Rest of World
SELECT

Course info

Synthetic biology, also referred to as engineering biology, is a multidisciplinary area that seeks to provide novel solutions for medicine, manufacturing and agriculture, by creating new biological components and systems that do not already exist in nature. Synthetic biology strives to make the engineering of biology easier and more predictable by applying key engineering principles to biology, such as standardisation and modularisation, thereby accelerating the creation of novel products, ...Read more

Synthetic biology, also referred to as engineering biology, is a multidisciplinary area that seeks to provide novel solutions for medicine, manufacturing and agriculture, by creating new biological components and systems that do not already exist in nature. Synthetic biology strives to make the engineering of biology easier and more predictable by applying key engineering principles to biology, such as standardisation and modularisation, thereby accelerating the creation of novel products, services and industries. Is this Msc for me? Our Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology MSc is a fast-paced and dynamic programme of study. Your studies will draw on the latest research in the fields of synthetic biology, (bio)engineering and biotechnology. Through this programme, you will have the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary for developing innovative solutions and tackle the pressing global challenges we are facing, such as: rapidly changing human demographics and resulting health pressures growing demand for more and healthier food resource shortages sustainable fuel transition and a cleaner environment Throughout this interactive degree, you will be encouraged to engage with academic experts from different disciplines, as well as industry experts, who contribute to discussions and provide guest lectures. You will engage in practical learning, participate in group activities and offer your critical analysis of the topics. The programme combines the teaching of theory and academic knowledge with the development of applied and practical skills, as well as a 3-month research project. We aim to equip our synthetic biology graduates with the skills required for further education and research, and for employment in the growing synthetic biology sector and other related industries.

Key stats

  IDP Connect
CUG Subject Ranking
CUG Subject Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2026
6th
CUG Ranking
CUG Ranking
Source: Complete University Guide 2026
18th
What students say
SR
Student Reviewer
02 Apr 21

Overall experience this year had been pretty good considering we have been left with only online lectures and seminars could have been better if there was more interaction between..Read more

SR
Student Reviewer
09 Mar 15

The university has a good, welcoming atmosphere. Overall the staff (both academic and non-academic) are very keen to help with any issue and in any way they can. The university..Read more

Modules

Modules (Year 1)
IDP Connect

Entry requirements

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, with a strong background in molecular biology. You should also have a strong background in one or more of the following areas: biotechnology, biochemistry, genetics or related sciences, with evidence of quantitative and computer science skills.

We may also consider your application if you have a background in engineering (particularly bioengineering), physics or mathematics and can show evidence of molecular biology knowledge.

Tuition fees

Students living in

Domestic

£19,100 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Domestic

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

£19,100 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from England

£19,100 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Wales

£19,100 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from Northern Ireland

£43,300 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from EU

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

£43,300 per year

This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

Students from International

The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

Standard single room - 9950 per year

IDP Connect

Latest reviews

Latest Biology reviews

Biology
Biology
SR
Student Reviewer
02 Apr 21
Neuroscience
Overall experience this year had been pretty good considering we have been left with only online lectures and seminars could have been better if there was more interaction between...
Read more
SR
Student Reviewer
09 Mar 15
Biological Sciences with Management
The university has a good, welcoming atmosphere. Overall the staff (both academic and non-academic) are very keen to help with any issue and in any way they can. The university...
Read more
Review breakdown
University rating
University rating
Students' union
Societies and Sports
University halls
Facilities
Lecturers and teaching quality
Local life
Career prospects
Student support
Location
Campus look and feel
Student life
Course rating
Course content
Work placements and internships
Tutor contact time
Subject facilities
University location
Cost of living
Safety
Public transport
Part-time work opportunities
Graduate employment opportunities
Diversity
Location
Safety
Room allocation
Internet/wifi
Value for money
Property management

How Biology students rated:

Student rating
( 4.0) 3 reviews
5 star
0%
4 stars
100%
3 stars
0%
2 stars
0%
1 star
0%

How all students rated:

Student rating
( 4.2) 443 reviews
5 star
42%
4 stars
45%
3 stars
9%
2 stars
2%
1 star
2%
Search reviews that mention

Uni info

The University of Edinburgh
Grant Institute Kings Buildings, W Mains Rd Edinburgh EH9 3DW United Kingdom
Nearest train station: Edinburgh Waverley  1.0 miles away
Thinking of studying in Edinburgh?

Check out our

Edinburgh city guide

Find a course

  • Undergraduate
  • HND / HNC
  • Foundation degree
  • Access & foundation
  • Postgraduate