Biotechnology MSci/BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Undergraduate
Degree with foundation year

Lab experiment showing a hand with gloves and tube grown plants

Study how biotechnology is applied in health, agriculture and environmental contexts. Develop scientific knowledge and practical lab skills, with opportunities to focus on areas such as molecular biology, industrial biotechnology or vaccinology through project work.

Course option

Degree with foundation year

Year of entry

2026-27 2027-28

Location

CU Coventry (Coventry) and
Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

BSc:
4 years full-time
5 years sandwich

UCAS codes

BTDF

Start date

September 2027
November 2027
January 2028
March 2028
May 2028
July 2028

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

Your UCAS Guide

Course overview

Study a lab-focused course that blends theory with hands-on experience, helping you develop scientific, analytical and communication skills that could be useful in solving real-world challenges and preparing for diverse roles in biotechnology.

Build foundations: explore how life works from the smallest molecules to whole-body systems. Learn about DNA and RNA, how genes are switched on and off, and how cells use energy. Study about bioinformatics, using maths and statistics to analyse real biological data.
Real-world focus: understand how biotechnology helps create safe, sustainable food, clean up pollution, produce useful materials on a large scale and develop greener solutions for the environment.
Explore cutting-edge topics: learn about areas like genomics, personalised medicine, CRISPR and gene therapy in disease treatment. Learn how biotech breakthroughs are brought to market, and develop skills in areas including computational biology.

Rated Gold Overall

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2026

Why you should study this course

Learn digital and analytical skills: develop bioinformatics and computational biology skills, learning how to analyse large data sets, interpret omics data and use programming tools to support breakthroughs in genomics and personalised medicine.
Study the science that’s changing lives: from tackling antibiotic resistance to advancing cancer therapies, explore how biotechnology is solving real-world health and environmental challenges, preparing you for a meaningful career at the forefront of innovation.
Contemporary facilities: apply theory through lab sessions and projects, giving you real-world experience with techniques like PCR, gene editing (CRISPR) and cell culture which are vital in research and industry.⁴
Learn from research-active experts and global case studies: learn from academic staff with industry experience in biotech research (staff may be subject to change). Study real-world examples from around the world, helping you understand how innovation works in different regulatory, ethical and commercial environments.

What you'll study

Explore the science behind DNA, cells and microbes in your first year, then dive into real-world biotechnology in years two and three of the BSc (Hons) course, covering areas like healthcare innovation, environmental sustainability and industrial bioproduction.

Your first year is shared with students from closely related courses. This approach allows you to learn alongside other disciplines, broaden your perspective and develop strong collaboration skills from the very start.

The common first year also offers flexibility. If you discover a stronger interest in another subject area, you may have the opportunity to transfer to a related course at the end of the year, subject to meeting progression requirements.

Common first year courses:

Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Biotechnology BSc (Hons)
Human Biosciences BSc (Hons)
Pharmacology BSc (Hons)

Modules

Introduction to Biomolecules and Biochemistry - 30 credits

Learn about the structures of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids, linking them to function and roles within biological systems. Examine enzymes, metabolic pathways and the energy used to drive these processes, while also considering the role of computational biology in visualising and understanding biological activities. Analysis methods, including spectrophotometry and chromatographic separation techniques, will be considered in both theory and practice.

Gain a sound appreciation of good laboratory practice, including proper record keeping, following quality standards and conducting key lab procedures and calculations. Learn to use modern digital tools to analyse and present data clearly, along with how to write standard laboratory reports.

Compulsory

Cells to Systems – 30 credits

Investigate the physiology of the human body, beginning with cellular organisation and signalling, all the way through to organ systems, their control and pathophysiology. Learn the process of human embryonic development to understand how distinct physiological systems develop.

Build your knowledge of how the main systems in the human body are developed, structured and organised, such as the nervous, muscular, skeletal, hormonal, heart, lung, reproductive, digestive and kidney systems. Learn how these systems work together to keep the body in balance (homeostasis). This module also covers how cells interact and communicate through cell signalling. You will be introduced to key concepts in how drugs work in the body (pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics), as well as how new medicines are developed.

Compulsory

Microbiology and Immunology – 30 credits

Learn about the different types of microorganisms with a detailed focus on bacteria and viruses. The structure, growth characteristics, laboratory cultivation and enumeration of bacteria and viruses will be considered. Explore the role of microorganisms in both human health and disease, as well as control strategies for microorganisms, including sterilisation, disinfection, antimicrobial agents and vaccines. This module will also introduce how mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance develop and work.

Learn how the body defends itself against infections through both the innate and adaptive immune response. Understand how lymphocytes develop and how the immune system tells the difference between the body’s own cells and foreign cells and molecules, including how it responds to tissue transplants.

Compulsory

Genetics and Molecular Biology – 30 credits

Learn the principles of inheritance, human genetics, population genetics and evolution. You will be introduced to the discovery and structure of DNA and study how traits are passed down, including human blood groups and mitochondrial inheritance.

Discover how DNA is used to make RNA and proteins (transcription and translation) and learn how to analyse genetic sequences using bioinformatics tools and analytical software. Explore the ethical issues around access to genetic data and how historical events and research projects have shaped the field.

Compulsory

Modules

Bioengineering and Industrial Biotechnology - 30 credits

Gain a thorough understanding of the principles and applications of bioengineering and industrial biotechnology. Apply biotechnological methods in industrial settings and foster an understanding of the current trends and future directions in the biotechnology industry, both in the UK and globally. Cover fundamental concepts and advanced techniques. Explore the integration of biological and engineering principles to develop innovative solutions for industrial applications. Module content emphasises the latest trends and technologies, including artificial intelligence, biomanufacturing and synthetic biology.

Compulsory

Agro-environmental Biotechnology - 30 credits

Gain fundamental and applied knowledge of biotechnology in agriculture and environmental management. Explore how biological systems and genetic technologies are used to improve food security, crop resilience, soil health and waste management while addressing climate change and sustainability challenges. Gain an understanding of key biotechnological approaches such as genetic modification, biofertilisers and biopesticides, precision agriculture and bioremediation. This module will also introduce you to regulatory, ethical and commercial aspects, helping you prepare for further study and opportunities in agritech, sustainability and environmental biotech sectors.

Compulsory

Biotech Breakthroughs: From Science to Success - 30 credits

Biotechnology is rapidly evolving, driving breakthrough innovations that redefine healthcare, industry and environmental sustainability. Explore contemporary scientific advancements alongside the strategic pathways needed to bring them from the lab to market. From AI-driven drug discovery to smart biomanufacturing and precision medicine, gain insight into the latest technological developments and the regulatory, ethical and commercial challenges involved in translating scientific breakthroughs into real-world applications.

Compulsory

Computational Biology – 30 credits

Learn the principles and applications of computational biology, integrating theoretical concepts with practical computational techniques. Our interdisciplinary approach helps you to understand biological processes through bioinformatics, biostatistics and systems biology. This module covers key topics such as enzyme kinetics, metabolic pathways, sequence analysis, and molecular modelling, with a strong emphasis on computational tools used in modern biological research and drug discovery.

Compulsory

A placement year² provides optional first-hand industry experience and helps you discover where your skills and interests truly lie. Taken between your second and final years, it allows you to step into a professional environment, apply your learning and gain valuable insight into your chosen sector.

By spending an extended period in industry, you should develop confidence, build professional networks and strengthen the transferable skills that employers value most. This experience offers a powerful way to explore career paths and return to your final year with real -world expertise and a clearer sense of direction.

Key opportunities

Complete an approved work placement: gain practical experience aligned with your course and career ambitions, typically lasting at least 26 weeks.
Reflect on professional development: recognise and document the specific skills, knowledge and experience you gain during your time in industry.
Broaden your global perspective: optionally undertake an international work or study placement to experience a different professional or cultural context.

While this optional year is non-credit-bearing, successful completion ensures your experience is formally recognised on your final degree certificate to showcase your expertise to future employers.

Students sponsored by the University who opt for an international work placement must ensure they comply with the UKVI immigration regulations and should contact us for further guidance.

Modules

Healthcare Biotechnology - 30 credits

Explore how biotechnology is transforming healthcare through innovations in biomarkers, diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccines and regenerative medicine. Gain insight into biopharmaceutical advancements, genetic engineering, synthetic biology and personalised medicine, along with emerging disease monitoring technologies that are shaping modern healthcare.

Combine theoretical learning with practical applications, learning the skills needed to tackle current and future challenges in gene therapies, molecular diagnostics and cell-based treatments. By the end of the module, you should have a strong understanding of how biotechnological tools contribute to disease prevention, treatment and healthcare innovations.

Compulsory

Frontiers in Biotechnology - 30 credits

Gain the knowledge and skills required to critically engage with emerging challenges and innovations in biotechnology. Learn about developments in areas such as gene editing, sustainable biotechnology, biomedical advancements and bioengineering, while also understanding the broader regulatory, ethical and societal implications of biotech innovations.

Through interactive discussions, case studies and workshops, you will analyse global biotech challenges and propose viable, science-based solutions. Either develop a grant application for a research project or a policy proposal addressing regulatory and governance aspects of biotechnology.

Bridge academic learning with practical industry and governance applications to develop a skill set that is highly relevant for both scientific and policy-related biotech careers.

Compulsory

Innovating Biotech: Entrepreneurship and Product Development - 30 credits

Gain an advanced understanding of the entrepreneurial and product development processes within the biotechnology sector. Grow the skills necessary to innovate, develop and commercialise biotechnological products at a higher level. The module covers advanced concepts and techniques, emphasising the latest trends and technologies in biotech entrepreneurship. Explore the integration of scientific knowledge, business acumen and strategic thinking to develop successful biotech ventures. Develop the skills needed for leadership roles in the biotech industry by addressing both UK and global market needs.

Compulsory

Research Project – 30 credits

During this module, you will undertake an independent research project within your discipline or area of interest. Engage in all stages of the research process, from project design and ethical approval to data collection, analysis and presentation. This module aims to foster critical thinking, problem-solving and advanced scientific communication skills, culminating in a conference-style poster presentation and defence of findings.

The module aims to:

provide you with practical experience in designing and conducting an independent research project
develop your ability to critically analyse and interpret scientific data
enhance your skills in scientific writing and presentation
improve your ability to work independently and manage a research project effectively
provide you with the opportunity to defend your research findings in a professional setting.

Compulsory

You may choose to extend your knowledge further with an integrated MSci year (subject to meeting progression requirements), where you’ll specialise in areas such as molecular biology, industrial and environmental biotech, or vaccinology and immunotherapy.

In your MSci year, you will study the following two modules as well as the modules in one of three specialist areas: industrial and environmental biotechnology, molecular biology, or vaccinology and immunotherapy.

Availability of optional routes may vary depending on student demand.

Modules

Theoretical Principles for Laboratory Scientists – 30 credits

Explore the broader aspects of laboratory work, including regulatory bodies, ISO standards, and health and safety procedures. Gain insight into the types of data generated, as well as the ethical implications of generating, storing and communicating this data. A key focus will be the role of big data in current and future scientific developments. This module integrates the International Certificate of Digital Literacy (ICDL) module Data Analytics. You will be awarded an ICDL certificate and electronic badge on successful completion of the course module.

Compulsory

Laboratory and Data Analysis Skills – 30 credits

Use an extensive laboratory program to equip you with fundamental techniques applicable across various disciplines and research projects. Understand theoretical principles and further develop your practical skills. This module integrates the International Certificate of Digital Literacy (ICDL) module Big Data. You will be awarded an ICDL certificate and electronic badge on successful completion of the course module.

Compulsory

Molecular Biology route additional modules:

Advances in Molecular Biology – 30 credits

Explore the frontiers of cell and molecular biology. Gain knowledge in omics technologies, gene regulation and techniques for manipulating genetic material, including the creation of transgenic organisms and gene expression control. Enhance your critical thinking by analysing primary research literature and improve your communication skills through workshops, seminar presentations and blog-style reviews.

Molecular Basis of Human Disease – 30 credits

Explore the molecular mechanisms underlying human disease, integrating advanced knowledge in molecular biology and medicine. Through case studies on cancer, metabolic disorders and infectious diseases, examine the challenges and advances in developing treatments. This module aims to equip you with a critical understanding of the molecular basis of disease and its implications for human health.

Compulsory

Industrial and Environmental route additional modules:

Industrial Biotechnology – 30 credits

A cutting-edge examination of industrial biotechnology, this module aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills to shape the future of sustainable production. Investigate innovative bioprocesses, examining the production and recovery of valuable molecules across diverse industries. Explore the exciting world of biopolymer production and gain a deep understanding of biosensor technology and its transformative applications.

Environmental Biotechnology – 30 credits

Explore cutting-edge advancements in environmental biotechnology and in-depth knowledge of global innovative practices. Focus on bioremediation techniques alongside the critical role of biotechnology in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration strategies. Use research-inspired lab work, lectures, workshops and discussions to formulate a strong understanding of transformative technologies. Develop expertise and communication skills to evaluate and convey biotechnology’s potential and limitations in addressing environmental challenges.

Compulsory

Vaccinology and Immunotherapy route additional modules:

Advanced Topics in Vaccinology and Immunotherapy – 30 credits

Dive into the world of immunotherapy and vaccinology, focusing on modern disease prevention and treatment.

Key areas of this module include:

rational vaccine design: principles of effective vaccine design, bioinformatics and the critical role of broadly neutralising antibodies
immune response and vaccine efficacy: explore mechanisms of the immune system, T-cell responses and humoral immunity. Learn to evaluate vaccine efficacy and monitor disease trends
cancer immunotherapy: discover cutting-edge treatments like CAR T-cell therapy and personalised cancer vaccines
mucosal immunity: explore the complexities of mucosal immunity, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of mucosal surfaces in health and disease
future of vaccinology: explore vaccine development strategies for emerging threats and understand the crucial role of vaccine manufacturing and delivery.

The module integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, including programming and omics data analysis. Develop critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills for a successful career in this dynamic field.

Human and Animal Vaccines – 30 credits

Explore vaccines’ critical role in protecting human and animal health. Study the pathobiology of infectious diseases and cancers and the mechanisms of vaccine action, including traditional and innovative design and delivery methods. Gain comprehensive knowledge of vaccine development for various pathogens, including viruses and bacteria. Hands-on laboratory sessions teach essential techniques for assessing immune responses, such as ELISA, neutralization assays, virus quantitation assays and flow cytometry, developing the skills to make an impact in this emerging field.

Compulsory

This year introduces you to your chosen subject while building essential skills.

Explore everything from cell biology and chemistry to anatomy, physiology, and human disease, giving you a solid understanding of the subject before you progress.
Perfect the research and writing styles you’ll need to ace your degree-level assignments.
Learn core principles so you feel completely prepared when you start Year 1 of your degree.

On successful completion of this foundation year, you will be able to progress to year 1 of the degree.

Modules

Introduction to Cell Biology – 30 credits

Equip yourself with the foundational cell biology knowledge and skills required for a successful transition to degree-level study in bioscience.

Examine the fundamental principles and concepts of cell biology, including the molecular components of cells and the specific functions of organelles and genetics. Develop your ability to apply this knowledge in both familiar and unfamiliar situations, while investigating scientific methods and modern technological advances to evaluate their impact on society.

Compulsory

Foundations of Chemistry – 30 credits

Gain the chemistry knowledge and skills required for a successful transition to degree-level study in bioscience disciplines. Module content covers the main branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic and physical chemistry. Examine major aspects of chemical terminology through both theory and experiment, then integrate your knowledge to explore how different areas of chemistry relate to one another and the wider biosciences field.

Compulsory

Foundations of Anatomy and Physiology – 30 credits

Gain a comprehensive introduction to how the body functions across all levels of organisation, from molecular and cellular systems to complete organs and homeostatic control mechanisms. Explore the vital relationship between structure and function within each body system and examine how these systems work together to maintain internal balance.

You will investigate the key internal and external factors that influence physiological health. Systems of study include the nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, urinary, digestive, musculoskeletal, immune and reproductive systems. You should develop a firm foundation of human physiology, preparing you for the clinical and scientific demands of your degree programme.

Compulsory

Introduction to Health and Disease – 30 credits

Understand how ill health and disease develop, including the impact of lifestyle on health. Explore key pathophysiological changes to body functions from the chemical and molecular level through to cellular systems, organs and full body systems. You will also examine the impact of these changes on homeostatic control mechanisms.

Consider the relationship between pathophysiological changes and the most common causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence. Study the inter-relationships between specific health issues and how they disrupt homeostatic control to cause key signs and symptoms. Explore musculoskeletal problems and mental health conditions like stress, depression, and anxiety.

The curriculum also covers epidemiology, risk factors, treatment, and preventive strategies. You will focus on understanding the key pathophysiological changes accompanying specific diseases, alongside the physiological and biochemical basis of current and future therapies.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content to keep it relevant and current for our students. Consequently, we may update modules to reflect the latest industry standards.

How you'll learn

Forget stressful end-of-year exams. We focus on applied learning using a mix of lectures, tutorials and online study to get you ready for the real world. Instead of one big test, we assess your progress through coursework and phase tests. This better reflects the way you’ll likely work in your future career.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. You will normally study one 30-credit module at a time. A typical 30-credit module requires a total of 300 hours of study made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary, depending on where you are in your studies, but on average, you will have between 10 and 12 teaching and learning hours each week. You will also have the option to attend additional sessions, including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You will be digging deeper into topics, reviewing what you’ve learnt and completing assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress to the end of your studies, you’ll spend more time on independent learning.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

The foundation year will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module and may include:

case study
individual presentation
essay
numeracy test
values-based interview.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Teaching and learning methods may include:

lectures
case studies
seminars
tutorials
presentations
group projects
workshops
practical laboratory sessions.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 30-credit module requires 300 hours of study. Study hours are made up of teaching contact hours and guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary, depending on where you are in your studies, but on average, you will have between 12 and 15 teaching and learning hours each week. You will also have the option to attend additional sessions, including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods, including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which could vary depending on the module. Assessment methods may include:

presentations
group projects
portfolios
laboratory reports
laboratory competencies
tests
portfolio of media products
independent research project.

The Coventry University assessment strategy aims to ensure that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

64 UCAS tariff points. All foundation courses require GCSE maths and English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards, and at least one A2 level or a BTEC equivalent qualification.

Other qualifications and experience

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team who will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Offer, you could automatically receive a contextual offer which is 16 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Offer.

Got higher grades? Have you considered direct entry to the degree without foundation year?

Fees and funding

Foundation year

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	TBC	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

Degree

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	2027/28 fees TBC 2026/27 fees: £9,790 per year	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2028/29 will pay £1,575 if they are paying UK fees, or £1,900 if they are paying international fees.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the table above for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with the Retail Price Index (RPI), a UK measure of inflation that tracks changes in the cost of living.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement or study abroad year, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2028/29. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above RPI.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) you may be charged the tuition fees in force at the time you take that additional period of study, and/or in line with any legislative changes that apply at that time.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

Applies to degree only

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad) which may include costs of travel, accommodation, equipment or uniform required for the placement and any visa-related costs.

Foundation year funding

To secure funding for a degree with a foundation year, you must complete the full four-year programme. If you do not finish the entire course, including the integrated foundation year, you may have to pay the foundation year fees yourself. For further information, please refer to the 'Tuition Fee Loan' details in the 'Funding your undergraduate course' section of our 'Fees and finance' page.

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**This degree with foundation year is not currently available to international students who require a student visa to study in the UK.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We assess your fee status using the information in your application. This status determines your tuition fees and the scholarships or financial support you can get. The Department for Education sets the rules for who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees in England.

The regulations list which students can pay the home fee rate. Because these rules are complex, the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) provides fee status guidance to help you find the right category. If you meet all the criteria for one category, your institution must charge you the home rate.

Facilities

You’ll spend your foundation year at our CU Coventry Mile Lane building, just a short walk from Coventry city centre. You can still make the most of all the facilities at the main Coventry University campus whenever you like.

Once you successfully complete your foundation year, you’ll move over to the Coventry University campus to study your degree.

Facilities are subject to availability⁴. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Take a virtual tour

Alison Gingell Building

The Alison Gingell Building is home to microbiology, cell culture, molecular biology/genetics, biochemistry and forensic science laboratories, allowing you to work in a replicated professional environment from day one.

Laboratory with people wearing white coats taking samples

SuperLab

Our SuperLab has facilities for cell culture and equipment for microscopy, DNA, RNA and protein analysis, and forensic testing.

Blonde lady wearing a lab white suite looking into a dish

Analytical Chemistry Suite

This is where our students apply their practical and theoretical knowledge to real-life working scenarios. We use a new generation chromatography technique, to analyse products ranging from pharmaceutical agents, to cosmetics, drinks and toxins.

Careers and opportunities

Graduates with a Biotechnology BSc (Hons)/MSci are well-positioned for roles in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, healthcare, industrial and agricultural sectors as well as research and academia.

Potential career paths include:

research and development
process engineering
quality control
regulatory affairs
microbiologist
technical sales representative
bioremediation
environmental consulting
environmental policy
sustainable development
government agencies
non-profit organisations
medical writing
scientific consultancy
entrepreneur
post graduate studies
PhD
academia.

The graduate destinations listed above illustrate potential career paths. You may need to gain additional qualifications or practical experience, pass professional examinations, complete training, cover associated costs and meet specific visa or immigration requirements to secure employment in these fields.

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Discover Phoenix+

Phoenix+ brings you together with other students to learn, experience and develop essential knowledge and skills. Whatever destination you choose, it's about preparing you for life after university.

Learn more about Phoenix+

How to apply

BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Apply via UCAS

C85

Institution code

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

This course with foundation year is not available to international students.

UK students

UCAS applications will open for this course from May 2026. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 6565

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Study location

The Foundation Year study route will be delivered by CU, part of the Coventry University Group, for and on behalf of Coventry University.

If you choose to study at CU Coventry for your Foundation Year, then your learning will be based at CU Coventry, Mile Lane, Coventry. Subject to meeting progression requirements you will then transition to the relevant Coventry University subject building for your progression degree.

Coventry University, Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations, partnerships and memberships

Some of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply. See the relevant body website for more details). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships are subject to successful renewal in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the University maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. If the accreditation, recognition or membership of this course changes, we will notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. Before seeking an overseas placement, read our visa advice page.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first academic year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year.

For UK (home) students, if the Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees annually but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (for example to repeat a year or resit examinations) you may be charged the tuition fees in force at the time you take that additional period of study, and/or in line with any legislative changes that apply at that time.

⁴Facilities

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised. Availability and access may be reduced or restricted when the University is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders or internal health and safety requirements.

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the University. A copy of the current 2025/26 contract is available for information purposes only. The 2027/28 contract will apply to the 2027/28 intakes and may differ from the current version. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the University will owe to you. You should read the applicable Student Contract carefully before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the University.