Course Information for the BSc. (Hons) Biotechnology Degree Programme at UCSI University
- Duration for UCSI Biotechnology degree is 3 Years (14 weeks per semester, 7 weeks per short semester)
- It is a full time programme with intakes in January, May and September of each year
- Scholarships and PTPTN Loan is available for the BSc. (Hons) Biotechnology at UCSI. To apply for the course, please fill up the Enquiry Form
UCSI University is one of the first Biotechnology education providers in the Malaysian private higher education sector, thus they have numerous strategic tie-ups with some of the world’s biggest companies in science. This opens doors for students and staff through technology transfers, internship opportunities, numerous site visits, industry talks on campus, and, of course, job opportunities. Versatility is a hallmark of the programme. As a student of this programme, you will be addressing critical issues in biotechnology through the study of genetic engineering, pharmacology, fermentation technology, among others. You will complement your abiding interests in science with the market sense to translate academic mastery into business opportunities. And with a firm footing in both fields, doors will open wherever you go.
Students after SPM or IGCSE/O-Levels interested in a career in Biotechnology can go for the Foundation in Science at top ranked UCSI University before continuing on to the 3-year BSc (Hons) Biotechnology Degree programme. Students who have completed a Pre-University programme in Malaysia can enter directly into the BSc (Hons) Biotechnology degree at UCSI University with the relevant results.
High Quality Biotechnology Degree at Top Ranked UCSI University
Biotechnology, the fastest growing science-based industry in the world, is widely regarded as the new engine of growth for the global economy. Covering the medical and health care industries, the agricultural and industrial sectors, the environment, and forensics, it encompasses also the applications of technologies like biochemistry, molecular biology, genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and others for the development of new products and processes.
In addition, it also includes vaccines and drugs for the treatment or improvement of life-threatening diseases like AIDS, medical diagnostic kits, agricultural products with improved nutritional values and reduced dependence on chemical pesticides, as well as high quality industrial products, cleaner biochemical process with less waste, and DNA fingerprinting for improved criminal investigation.
Designed with the aid of leading members in the biotechnology field, the 3-year programme helps to bridge the gap between industry and academia.
The course content is aimed at providing students with a good foundation of knowledge and hands-on practical experience of the different fields of biotechnology for their future careers which include Pharmacology, Physiological Sciences, Metabolic Biochemistry, Molecular Cell Biology, Human Molecular Genetics, Animal and Plant Cell Culture, Microbial Biotechnology, Enzyme Technology, Fermentation Technology and Downstream processing, Bioprocess Engineering and Environmental Biotechnology.
Jia Loon, Biotechnology Graduate from UCSI University
The course at UCSI University aims to produce competent, confident and consummate graduates in the field of Biotechnology who are internationally employable and who are equipped with various valuable transferable skills like presentation techniques, communication skills, exposure to problem solving, teamwork and the use of information technology.
In addition, students will be made to realize the ethical issues and the impact of biotechnology on society, as well as trained to be bioentrepreneurs / technopreneurs that would enable them to translate research outcomes into business opportunities.
Assessments
Coursework percentage: 60%, written examination percentage: 40%
Why should I study Biotechnology at UCSI University instead of at other universities?
To differentiate ourselves from other institutions of higher learning offering the same degree programme, our students are well-equipped for the workforce before graduation. Our Biotechnology programme is a homegrown B.Sc. degree and is tailored to incorporate Co-Op training in year 1, 2 and 3 of study. The students have the opportunity of working for two months at the end of each of the three academic years on their Co-Operative Placements in a company in the related industries.
This means they would have more than six months of real world working experience before they graduate. The Co-Op aims to develop not only students’ communications and soft skills, but also help students to relate theory with practical and working experience in the Biotechnology industry in Malaysia. It also aims to provide students with technical and analytical skills to carry out life science research and prepares them to pursue postgraduate studies in a range of disciplines.
Does the UCSI University degree provide opportunities for me to develop my career abroad?
The career opportunities for a biotech graduates range across many industry sectors due to the wide applications of biotechnology. These include the food and agricultural sector, medical and bio-pharmaceutical sector, industrial and environmental sector as well as the animal and aquaculture sectors. UCSI University graduates have gone on to pursue careers overseas such as in Singapore where they found employment as researchers, both in private and government research centres.
What facilities does UCSI University provide for Biotechnology programme compare with others?
Biotechnology programme is a multi-disciplinary science based programme which cannot be run without good laboratory facilities. The specially designed and purpose-built laboratories at UCSI university include Basic Chemistry and Biology laboratory, Microbiology laboratory, Physiology and Pharmacology laboratory, Molecular Biology laboratory, Enzyme Technology laboratory, Fermentation and scale-up laboratory, and Animal and Plant Cell Culture Laboratory.
All these laboratories were built to ensure that our students were given the best facilities and real hands-on practical experience in the different fields of Biotechnology which is important for their future careers. The laboratories are equipped with high-value equipments such as Bioreactor, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, Atomic Absorbance Spectrophotometry and such.
All our students will have to carry out a final Research Project at the end of their third academic year in these laboratories under the supervision of our highly qualified academic staff. Each student will gain invaluable experience from their final project as they are given a chance to plan, exhibit and experience real hands-on laboratory practical work.
Faculty of Applied Sciences at UCSI University
Established in 1999, UCSI University’s Faculty of Applied Sciences has distinguished itself as one of Malaysia’s leading hubs of scientific study. The Faculty of Applied Sciences wins multiple research grants each year. More than 60% of the Faculty of Applied Science staff are PhD holders.
The Faculty stands out for the quality of academic teaching and research in Biotechnology, Food Science, Nutrition and Aquatic Science. It is the Pioneer for Aquatic Science, Biotechnology, Food Science and Nutrition programmes in Malaysia‘s private higher education landscape
Graduates from the Faculty of Applied Sciences at UCSI University records a virtual 100% employment rate, the statistics show that this is indeed the case.
University records show that around 40% of Applied Science students move on to sales and marketing upon graduation while others move into non-Biotech fields like quality control – a field that involves a great deal of chemical analysis – and Microbiology.
The Faculty is home to intelligent and ambitious individuals who target a fast-track career in science. UCSI University’s students go beyond themselves in every endeavour and the Faculty provides them with myriad avenues to shine.
The Faculty enjoys an impressive haul of inter-varsity awards and many of our undergraduate students steal a march on their postgraduate counterparts by publishing their research findings in scientific journals. Success is an integral part of the Faculty’s identity and character.
State-of-the-art Biotechnology labs at UCSI University
The specially designed and purpose-built laboratories at UCSI university include Basic Chemistry and Biology laboratory, Microbiology laboratory, Physiology and Pharmacology laboratory, Molecular Biology laboratory, Enzyme Technology laboratory, Fermentation and scale-up laboratory, and Animal and Plant Cell Culture Laboratory.
All these laboratories were built to ensure that our students were given the best facilities and real hands-on practical experience in the different fields of Biotechnology which is important for their future careers. The laboratories are equipped with high-value equipments such as Bioreactor, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, Atomic Absorbance Spectrophotometry and such.
All UCSI University students will have to carry out a final Research Project at the end of their third academic year in these laboratories under the supervision of our highly qualified academic staff.
Each student will gain invaluable experience from their final project as they are given a chance to plan, exhibit and experience real hands-on laboratory practical work.
Internships a UCSI University
To differentiate from other institutions of higher learning offering the same degree programme, UCSI University students are well-equipped for the workforce before graduation. Their Biotechnology programme is a homegrown B.Sc. degree and is tailored to incorporate Co-Op training in year 1, 2 and 3 of study. UCSI students have the opportunity of working for two months at the end of each of the three academic years on their Co-Operative Placements in a company in the related industries.
This means they would have more than six months of real world working experience before they graduate. The Co-Op aims to develop not only students’ communications and soft skills, but also help students to relate theory with practical and working experience in the Biotechnology industry in Malaysia.
It also aims to provide students with technical and analytical skills to carry out life science research and prepares them to pursue postgraduate studies in a range of disciplines.
The career opportunities for a biotech graduates range across many industry sectors due to the wide applications of biotechnology. These include the food and agricultural sector, medical and bio-pharmaceutical sector, industrial and environmental sector as well as the animal and aquaculture sectors.
UCSI University graduates have gone on to pursue careers overseas such as in Singapore where they found employment as researchers, both in private and government research centres.
Biotechnology degree students at UCSI University may transfer to top universities overseas for the final part of their degree students such as the University of Queensland, Australia or Northumbria University, UK.
Entry Requirements for the BSc (Hons) Biotechnology at UCSI University
- UCSI Foundation in Science or equivalent in Malaysia
Minimum CGPA 2.00 and Possess SPM with 3 credits inclusive of Mathematics and one science subject - National matriculation
Minimum CGPA 2.00 and Possess SPM with 3 credits inclusive of Mathematics and one science subject - STPM
Minimum GPA 2.00 in any two (2) subjects and Possess SPM with 3 credits inclusive of Mathematics and one science subject - UEC
Minimum Grade B in five (5) subjects, inclusive of: - Mathematics
One Science subject
OR Minimum Grade B in 5 subjects and Possess SPM with 3 credits inclusive of Mathematics and one science subject - A-levels
Minimum Grade D in any two (2) subjects and Possess SPM with 3 credits inclusive of Mathematics and one science subject - Australian High/Secondary School Diploma (Grade 12) – SAM/AUSMAT/ SACE/ TEE/ NTCE/WACE
Minimum ATAR 60% or minimum 60% average in five (5) subjects inclusive of: - Mathematics
One Science subject
Canadian Grade 12 – CPU/CIMP
Minimum average of 60% in six (6) subjects, inclusive of: - Mathematics
One Science subject
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Minimum score of 26/42 from six (6) subjects, inclusive of: - Mathematics
One Science subject
Diploma/Advanced Diploma in related field
Minimum CGPA 2.00 - Other qualifications recognized by the Malaysian government
Admission: Case by case basis
Year 1 Subjects for the Biotechnology Degree at UCSI University
Year 1
- University Life (MPU-U2)
- Integriti dan Anti-Rasuah (Integrity and Anti-Corruption) (MPU-U2)
- Chemistry for Applied Sciences
- Biomolecular Structure & Function
- Fundamental Techniques in Applied Sciences
- Biochemistry: Principles & Experiments
- Microbiology
- Molecular Cell Biology
- Introduction to Biomaterials
- Extra-curricular Learning Experience 1 (MPU-U4)
- Co-Operative Placement 1
Year 2
- Analytical Chemistry
- Immunology
- Biocatalysts & Biosensors
- Research Methods & Data Analysis
- Animal Cell Culture Technology
- Plant Biotechnology & Genetics
- Introduction to Programming
- Pharmacology
- Extra-curricular Learning Experience 2 (MPU-U4)
- Co-Operative Placement 2
Elective 1 (Choose one)
- Food Chemistry
- Food Processing & Packaging
- Food Microbiology
- Entrepreneurship for Applied Sciences
- Fundamentals of Marketing
- Fundamental of Management
- Introduction to Public Speaking
- Ecology & Sustainability
- Environmental Monitoring & Assessment
- Conservation & Management of Aquatic Resources
- Current Topics in Aquatic Science
- Aquatic Pollution & Toxicology
Year 3
- Tools in Genetic Engineering
- Bioinformatics
- Environmental Biotechnology & Sustainability
- Human Genetics
- Bioeconomy & commercialization
- Fermentation Technology & Downstream Processing
- Bioprocess Engineering
- Extra-curricular Learning Experience 3 (MPU-U4)
- Co-Operative Placement 3
- Biotechnology Research Project 1
- Biotechnology Research Project 2
Elective 2 & 3 (Choose two)
- Food Chemistry
- Food Processing & Packaging
- Food Microbiology
- Entrepreneurship for Applied Sciences
- Fundamentals of Marketing
- Fundamental of Management
- Introduction to Public Speaking
- Ecology & Sustainability
- Environmental Monitoring & Assessment
- Conservation & Management of Aquatic Resources
- Current Topics in Aquatic Science
- Aquatic Pollution & Toxicology
Career Opportunities
Biotechnology is not a field that involves merely research on the bench, but runs the whole gamut from thoughts seeded in research, to realisation in development, feasibility in commercialisation studies and trials, and finally culminating in the production of branded products into the marketplace. Hence. holding a degree in Biotechnology does not mean that you will be just a researcher in a laboratory. In addition, the Biotechnology technical knowledge that students learned from this degree is applicable globally in various fields.
A biotechnology graduate can be a research and development (R&D) officer in research institute, universities, agricultural, clinical and forensic laboratories; quality control and quality assurance officer of pharmaceutical, health care and other industrial products; clinical research coordinator in hospitals and pharmaceutical firm; and bioinformatics computational analyst.
They can also be a sales and marketing executive in the field related to biotechnology or the pharmaceutical industry, manager in the manufacturing industry, patent agents specialised in Intellectual Property (IP) and patent law, venture capitalists as well as biotechnology technopreneurs.
Biotechnology graduate can readily apply his/her knowledge and expertise in the following areas:
- Research and Development (R&D) in research institutes; universities; agricultural, clinical and forensic laboratories
- Quality control and quality assurance of pharmaceutical, health care and other industrial products
- Clinical research co-ordination in hospitals and pharmaceutical firms
- Bioinformatics Computational Analysis
- Other career opportunities in
- Management
- Intellectual Property (IP) and Patent Law
- Sales and support services for the biotechnology industry, ecology, waste management and environmental pollution control
- Venture capitalist business
- Biotechnology technopreneurships
Postgraduate Studies in Biotechnology at UCSI University
UCSI graduates can pursue a Master in Science degree by research or course work in local universities or overseas. They can choose to enrol in a Masters programme specialising in any of the 5 main fields of Biotechnology, i.e. Industrial Biotechnology, Medical Biotechnology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Environmental Biotechnology and Forensic Molecular Biology or in any other specific disciplines such as Biomedical Sciences, Immunology, Pharmacology and many others.
Postgraduate Research Laboratories at UCSI University
The Faculty of Applied Sciences at UCSI University maintains two laboratories dedicated to postgraduate research.
Phytochemistry laboratory at UCSI University
The Phytochemistry Laboratory house various instruments used to find, isolate, and identify novel natural products with medicinal value.
UCSI University’s research team collect plant samples from various localities for chemical analysis and bioactivity studies to new sources of beneficial plant compounds
Feature instruments
Malvern Zetasizer Nano ZS at the Phytochemistry Lab at UCSI University
The Malvern Zetasizer Nano ZS is the world’s most widely used system for the measurement of the size, electrophoretic mobility of proteins, zeta potential of colloids and nanoparticles, and optionally the measurement of protein mobility and microrheology of protein and polymer solutions.
Agilent 1200 Series High Performance Liquid Chromatography System at UCSI University’s Phytochemistry Lab
UCSI University’s Agilent 1200 HPLC system can be adapted for both analytical and semi-preparative isolation of natural products. It includes all the basic UV-vis HPLC modules and also other additional modules.
These additional modules includes a column temperature control for high resolution separation at elevated temperatures and an auto-sampler for high throughput analysis.
Agilent 7890A Gas Chromatograph at UCSI University Phytochemistry Lab
Agilent 7890A Gas Chromatograph is a robust analytical instrument used for the analysis of volatile chemicals. It has a wide range of applications including fatty acid analysis, flavour analysis as well as detection of certain food additives and pesticide residue.
CAMAG High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography System at UCSI University Phytochemistry Lab
CAMAG High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography system is one of the most advanced of instrumental Thin Layer Chromatography systems available.
Compared to conventional TLC systems, HPTLC includes a widely standardized methodology.
Every aspect of the analysis from sample loading, band resolution and plate visualisation is conducted under properly regulated conditions to ensure high precision. Analytical methods are easy to develop and many natural product samples can be analysed simultaneously.
Preparative column chromatographic columns at UCSI University Phytochemistry Lab
The venerable preparative chromatographic column is present in all respectable phytochemistry laboratories. Conventional column chromatography provides the large sample capacity required to isolate compounds in large enough quantities for structural elucidation and bioactivity testing.
UCSI University has a wide repertoire of chromatographic stationary phases ranging from traditional ODS and silica to newer MCI gel and Sephadex LH20.
LABSONIC® P at UCSI University Phytochemistry Lab
The LABSONIC® P homogenizer is designed for higher output up to 400 W and correspondingly for treatment of larger samples. Several liters can be sonicated in batch mode, whereas 10 to 50 L/h can be processed in continuous mode using a flow cell.
WiseClean WUC-A06H at UCSI University Phytochemistry Lab
An ultrasonic bath used for sample extraction and for removing dirt, grease and waxes from laboratory apparatus using ultrasonic frequency
Molecular Biology Laboratory at UCSI University
The facilities available at UCSI University’s Molecular Biology Laboratory allows for the study of biology at the molecular levels.
Their research team regularly conducts a wide range of basic and applied research activities including gene based, protein based and molecular based studies.
Feature instruments
Applied Biosystems StepOne Real-Time PCR System at UCSI University Molecular Biology Lab
The StepOne Real-Time PCR System is a 48-well, Real-Time PCR instrument perfect for both first-time and experienced users. Utilizing robust LED based 3-color optical recording, the StepOne Real-Time PCR System is designed to deliver precise, quantitative Real-Time PCR results for a variety of genomic research applications.
Bio-Rad Gel Doc XR+ imaging system at UCSI University Molecular Biology Lab
The Gel Doc™ XR+ system is based on CCD high-resolution, high-sensitivity detection technology and modular options to accommodate a wide range of samples and support multiple detection methods.
The system accommodates a wide array of samples, from large polyacrylamide gels to small agarose gels and various blots. The system enables image analysis and documentation of restriction digests, amplified nucleic acids, genetic fingerprinting, RFLPs, and protein SDS-PAGE.
BioLogic DuoFlow™ Medium-Pressure Chromatograph at UCSI University Molecular Biology Lab
BioLogic DuoFlow Medium-Pressure Chromatography system is an FPLC system used to separate and purify biological molecules.
It can be used for both preparative and analytical purposes medium pressure chromatography is typically used with columns that are not designed for the high pressures in HPLC instruments. Columns used with medium pressure chromatography typically include ion-exchange and affinity columns.
FLUOstar Omega at UCSI University Molecular Biology Lab
FLUOstar Omega is a multimode microplate reader with five detection modes. It utilizes an ultra-fast UV/Vis spectrometer or filters for absorbance as well as highly sensitive filters for all other detection modes. The FLUOstar Omega is the ideal plate reader for life science applications.
Q500 Sonicator at UCSI University Molecular Biology Lab
The Q500 is a powerful ultrasonic processor featuring programmable operation and a digital display of operating parameters. Popular applications include nanoparticle dispersion, creating emulsions, cell lysis and homogenization.
Undergraduate Research Laboratories at UCSI University
The seven purpose built undergraduate laboratories maintained by the Faculty of Applied Sciences are typically used for teaching and for undergraduate students to conduct their undergraduate research project.
Aquatic Science Lab at UCSI University
As the only local private university that offers aquatic science and aquaculture course, UCSI University has invested heavily in its new dry and wet labs equipped with aquarium tanks ranging from one to eight feet in length.
The new facility is also home to the jellyfish kreisel tank, a carefully designed circular aquarium made specifically for jellyfish and seahorses that are sensitive to water pumps or even the corners of the tank itself.
Microbiology Lab at UCSI University
This facility houses all the bacterial and fungal cultures used in research and teaching. Well-equipped to culture, store and contain microbes, the facility supports cutting – edge research in the areas of drug discovery, environmental health, food safety and antimicrobial therapies.
Food Science lab at UCSI University
Used for both teaching and research, this facility houses a wide range of instruments that are used to determine the physiochemical properties and sensory characteristics of food, as well as the ideal packaging for long term storage. High standards of hygiene are maintained to accurately simulate industry practices like GMP and HACCP.
Biochemistry Lab at UCSI University
Equipped with an abundance of analytical instruments, this facility supports the analysis of biochemical enzymes, as well as organic and inorganic molecules. Training at the lab focuses on techniques that identify, quantify and separate components within natural and artificial materials.
Cell Tissue Culture Lab at UCSI University
Specially built to culture plant and animal cells, this facility is equipped with advanced imaging technology that enables researchers to visualise the cell growth and condition. A sterile environment is maintained to house the many instruments for culturing plant and animal cells including photosynthetic growth chambers, carbon dioxide incubators and biosafety cabinets.
Chemistry Lab at UCSI University
Used primarily for teaching, this lab houses various instruments and reagents for chemical assays and analysis.
Biotechnology Lab at UCSI University
Housing a freeze dryer, spectrophotometers and PCR instruments, this facility houses a wide range of research apparatus and analytical instruments.
