Study

Biotechnology

The potential of nature: develop new therapies, foods and materials
Sergey Nivens-stock.adobe.com

Does Biotechnology suit me?

Studying Biotechnology

In biotechnology, biological systems and organisms are used to develop and manufacture products and technologies: in this field of study, you’ll learn how biological and chemical properties and processes can be used, for example, to produce medicines and food, or to genetically modify plants.

Biotechnology combines scientific and technical know-how: in this interdisciplinary field of study, you’ll examine subjects such as biology, physics and chemistry. On the other hand, your curriculum will also include topics from process engineering, materials science and bioinformatics.

Questions you’ll ask yourself during your studies are, for example: how can biotechnological approaches contribute to the development of new medicines or vaccines? How can agricultural microorganisms or cultivation methods be improved? And how can biotechnology be used to solve environmental problems?

There are several areas of application in this field of study: red biotechnology relates to medicine, while green biotechnology focuses on its use for agriculture. White biotechnology focuses, for example, on detergents or fuels in the industrial sector. Typical degree programs are therefore called food and biotechnology, molecular biotechnology, and biomedicine and biotechnology.

Personal requirements | Biotechnology

  • Interest in science and technology
  • Enjoy conducting research
  • Mathematics understanding
  • Flexibility and willingness to learn
  • Accuracy and care

computer-science-fields

Study Choice Test

Find out which of the 143 fields of study suit you best! All you need is 7-15 minutes to answer 58 short questions - free of charge and without registration!

Take the test

Typical course content | Biotechnology

  • Cell biology and genetics
  • Basics of biochemistry
  • General microbiology
  • Microbial physiology
  • Biotechnological fermentation
  • Basic food technology processes
  • Process technology and systems engineering
  • Quality assurance and business management
  • Measurement and analysis methods
  • Microbiology and preservation

Career prospects | Biotechnology

With a degree in biotechnology, you can work in research, for public authorities or in industry. Your specialization during your studies will influence the professional sectors you might work in. Career opportunities exist in pharmacy, agriculture, the food industry and medical research.

As a biotechnologist, you can use biological and chemical processes and procedures to process, prepare and refine products. Other areas of activity include quality control, diagnostic laboratories, consulting, and sales.


Compare your options

Unsure of what to choose? At studyamo you can compare all fields of study directly to get a clear view of which one best matches your expectations.