The Master of Science is a two-year full-time program providing graduates with the opportunity to undertake advanced study and research. This program is designed to provide students with a thorough training in applied scientific research and methodology and will also prepare students for higher degree studies and professional employment. The program consists of both theoretical and practical coursework, as well as a research dissertation. Students complete advanced coursework and specialist laboratory classes prior to completing their research project. The coursework will provide a critical evaluation of research and presentation, develop the student's knowledge and understanding of statistical analyses techniques as applied to scientific research, and develop an awareness of research proposal design and background. Students will have the opportunity to develop a research proposal including aims, methodology and a literature review. The dissertation involves applied research on a specific project, a seminar and thesis describing the research in detail. The Biotechnology major is designed to address the needs of students wishing to fill the gap between research in biotechnology and its applications in the treatment or identification of human diseases or other applications in the biotechnology industry. Students will undertake coursework in advanced molecular biology techniques, including gene expression analysis and cell biology to augment their research in these areas, and in the development of intellectual property with a view to protecting discoveries and understanding pathways for translating the discovery into practical application and commercialisation. My career opportunities This program will provide students with advanced cutting-edge theoretical knowledge in their chosen area of specialisation together with the practical and research skills necessary for employment in the industry and/or research laboratories. Biotechnology: Biotechnology covers a broad category of technologies but relies on the common attribute that it utilises biological systems to facilitate the technology. This can describe the use of yeast to make cheese or to ferment alcohol to the use of genetics to cure human disease or develop plants that are more sustainable to biotic and abiotic stress. Biotechnology can also be applied to improving mechanical solutions; this could include the refinement of biofuels or the replacement of a surgical intervention with a systemic therapy. Biotechnology also depends on the ability to identify discoveries being able to take them to the market. In some cases, useful biotechnology cannot be commercialised because it is not profitable. This major includes a course that instructs the student to recognise intellectual property with a view that it can be protected and commercialised. A student completing this major will be able to carry out research using cell and molecular biology, recognise a discovery that can be protected and taken to the market place and understand the processes and requirements to bring intellectual property to the market. The major is designed to allow graduates to work in research institutes and/or industries that have a focus on discoveries and their commercialisation. The major is also designed to allow students the option to explore entrepreneurial skills. Pathways to further study Students who successfully complete the Master of Science program at the required level will be eligible to apply for entry to Doctoral Research programs.