24. Molecular Biotechnology coursework degrees
Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology)
Degree Code: LC035
Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology)
Degree Code: LF023
Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology)
Degree Code: LG008
This chapter sets out the requirements for postgraduate degrees offered in the Faculty of Science in the area of Molecular Biotechnology. A comprehensive guide to the requirements and units of study of the coursework degrees is listed.
The information in this chapter is in summary form and is subordinate to the provisions of the relevant degree Resolutions, collected variously in this chapter, or in the University of Sydney Calendar. The Calendar is available for sale at the Student Centre, for viewing at the faculty office or the Library, or on the Web at
www.usyd.edu.au/publications/calendar.
Course overview and outcomes
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology), Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) are articulated programs intended for industry employees and those experienced in related fields to obtain relevant knowledge in molecular biotechnology. They include teaching in current and innovative areas and provide specialisations with attractive prospects for retraining and employment and for further education.
These programs cover new and leading edge high technologies that provide education in relevant aspects of biology, biochemistry, chemistry, food science and technology, agricultural science, bioinformatics and information bioscience. They aim to provide a basic knowledge and skills base emphasising scientific applications.
The courses also provide a professional graduate education for scientists and technologists already working in these areas. Students will be exposed to a solid grounding in molecular biotechnology including an appreciation of social and ethical implications. This professional development award course is particularly designed for those seeking training in this expanding high technology area.
Molecular Biotechnology postgraduate coursework degree table
| Unit of study | Credit points | A: Assumed knowledge P: Prerequisites C: Corequisites N: Prohibition | Session |
|---|---|---|---|
All Degrees: Core Units |
|||
| MOBT5101 Applied Molecular Biotechnology A |
12 | Semester 1 |
|
| MOBT5102 Applied Molecular Biotechnology B |
12 | Semester 2 |
|
Masters: Additional Core Units |
|||
| BETH5201 Ethics and Biotech: Genes and Stem Cells |
6 | A A three-year undergraduate degree in science, medicine, nursing, allied health sciences, philosophy/ethics, sociology/anthropology, history, or other relevant field, or by special permission. A limited number of students may be granted permission to take this unit during their honours year. |
Semester 2 |
| OR | |||
| BIOL5002 Bioinformatics: Sequences and Genomes |
6 | C BIOL5001 N BIOL3027, BIOL3927 Note: Department permission required for enrolment Department permission not required for Bioinformatics students. BIOL5001 corequisite not required for Molecular Biotechnology students or Stream B Bioinformatics students. |
Semester 2 |
| MOBT5303 Applied Molecular Biotech C (Project) |
6 | P MOBT (5101 or 5102). N MOBT5103 This unit of study is only available to students enrolled in the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology). |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
Masters: Optional Unit - alternative to MOBT5303 |
|||
| Enrolment in MOBT5304 requires permission of the Director of the Molecular Biotechnology Program | |||
| MOBT5304 Applied Molecular Biotech D (Project) |
12 | P MOBT5101 or MOBT5102 at Distinction or High Distinction level, with further permission required for enrolment by Director of the Molecular Biotechnology Program. N MOBT5303 Note: Department permission required for enrolment This unit of study is only available to students enrolled in the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology). |
Semester 1 Semester 2 |
Graduate Diploma and Masters students must also complete 12 credit points of optional units of study |
|||
| These must have the permission of the program coordinator. Most postgraduate units offered by the Faculty of Science are allowable, subject to timetabling, availability and prerequisites. MOBT5303 is, however, only available to Masters Students. | |||
Molecular Biotechnology unit of study descriptions 2010
BETH5201 Ethics and Biotech: Genes and Stem Cells
Credit points: 6 Session: Semester 2 Classes: The equivalent of one 2-hour seminar per week presented in flexible mode incorporating seminars and an intensive format. In addition, students will spend up to four hours per week on online learning tasks, small group sessions, project work and consultation with lecturers over the course of the 13 weeks of semester. Assumed knowledge: A three-year undergraduate degree in science, medicine, nursing, allied health sciences, philosophy/ethics, sociology/anthropology, history, or other relevant field, or by special permission. Assessment: Essays, short written assignments, presentation/project.
Note: A limited number of students may be granted permission to take this unit during their honours year.
This unit introduces students to the broader social/political, ethical/philosophical and legal/regulatory issues that underlie genetics, stem cell research and the emerging biotechnologies. The unit will provide a brief overview of the relevant science before considering scientific, cultural and religious understandings of life and human identity. The second part of the unit will review the political, regulatory and commercial context of biotechnology and the control of information. Students will then review the history of genetics and eugenics and the ethical issues that arise in clinical and population genetics, stem cell research and cloning. The final part of the unit will explore the boundaries of research and knowledge and the issues raised by emerging biotechnologies, such as nanotechnology and proteomics. Learning activities will include an intensive seminar program, small group sessions and reading. Students will be able to concentrate on stem cell research, clinical or molecular genetics or other biotechnologies according to their clinical and scientific interests and experience.
BIOL5002 Bioinformatics: Sequences and Genomes
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Neville Firth Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 lecture or tutorial per week, 1 three hour practical per fortnight. Corequisites: BIOL5001 Prohibitions: BIOL3027, BIOL3927 Assessment: Formal exam, projects.
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: Department permission not required for Bioinformatics students. BIOL5001 corequisite not required for Molecular Biotechnology students or Stream B Bioinformatics students.
Bioinformatics - the application of computers to life sciences, and genomics - the study of biology at the genome-wide scale, are revolutionising basic and applied biological sciences in the 21st century. The unit focuses on the application of bioinformatics to the storage, retrieval and analysis of biological information, principally in the form of nucleotide and amino acid sequences. An extensive practical component emphasises the development of hands-on skills in the use of bioinformatics technologies. Students will gain an appreciation of the significance and potential of bioinformatics and genomics in contemporary life sciences; an awareness of the breadth of bioinformatics resources and applications, including non-sequence-based biological information; skills and experience in the use of a core set of programs and databases for nucleotide and amino acid sequence analysis and phylogenetic reconstruction; a basic understanding of the theoretical foundation and underlying assumptions of the programs, and their relative strengths/limitations; and, competence in the evaluation of output from the programs in appropriate biological context.
MOBT5101 Applied Molecular Biotechnology A
Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Neville Firth Session: Semester 1 Classes: 1 two hour lecture and 1 one hour turorial per week Assessment: Continuous assessment throughout semester, end of semester examination
This unit of study provides a solid foundation for education and training in applied molecular biotechnology. Classes emphasise molecular biology and genetics combined with essential aspects underscoring modern molecular biotechnology.
Textbooks
Required text: Acquaah, G. 2004, Understanding Biotechnology, Pearson Prentice Hall, New Jersey.
MOBT5102 Applied Molecular Biotechnology B
Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: Dr Matthew Todd Session: Semester 2 Classes: 1 two hour lecture and 1 one hour turorial per week Assessment: Continuous assessment throughout semester, end of semester examination
Applied molecular biotechnology B broadens knowledge of and training in applications of the field. Key areas of molecular biology and genetics are combined with studies embracing major issues in modern molecular biotechnology, and are illustrated by examples and case studies.
Textbooks
Required text: Acquaah, G. Understanding Biotechnology, Pearson Prentice Hall. 2004.
MOBT5303 Applied Molecular Biotech C (Project)
Credit points: 6 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof Kevin Downard Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Prerequisites: MOBT (5101 or 5102). Prohibitions: MOBT5103 Assessment: Report (60%) and individual/group poster and presentation (40%)
Note: This unit of study is only available to students enrolled in the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology).
This unit of study provides students with the opportunity to undertake hands-on experience in the biotechnology industry. This will typically involve placement in an approved industry partner's facility on a part-time basis or a case study project conducted in association with an industry affiliate. Entry to an industry placement is limited by a quota and the availability of facilities and projects. Results obtained in MOBT units of study undertaken in the preceding semester (in theory and practical components) will decide whether students are assigned to placements or case study projects. All students enrolled in this unit are required to complete an industry placement suitability survey which will also be taken into consideration. Assessment is based on a student's performance in their placement or project, a report, poster and presentation.
MOBT5304 Applied Molecular Biotech D (Project)
Credit points: 12 Teacher/Coordinator: A/Prof. Kevin Downard Session: Semester 1,Semester 2 Classes: 150 hours of research Prerequisites: MOBT5101 or MOBT5102 at Distinction or High Distinction level, with further permission required for enrolment by Director of the Molecular Biotechnology Program. Prohibitions: MOBT5303 Assessment: Report of some 7,000 words (60%), supervisor's assessment of performance (20%), presentation (10%), viva (10%)
Note: Department permission required for enrolment
Note: This unit of study is only available to students enrolled in the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology).
This unit will provide additional research training for qualified M.Appl.Sci (Molecular Biotechnology) students wishing to undertake a subsequent research degree at Masters or PhD level. The student's research supervisor will be involved in developing an appropriate focus for the project to satisfy assessment criteria.
Resolutions
Resolutions
Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology)
Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology)
Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology)
1.1.1.1
graduates of the University of Sydney holding the degree of Bachelor of Science or any other equivalent award of the University of Sydney;
1.1.1.2
graduates of other universities or other appropriate institutions who have qualifications equivalent to those specified in subsection 1.1.1.1; or
1.1.1.3
persons who have experience which is considered to demonstrate the knowledge and aptitude required to undertake the units of study;
1.1.2.1
graduates of the University of Sydney holding the degree of Bachelor of Science or any other equivalent award of the University of Sydney;
1.1.2.2
graduates of other universities or other appropriate institutions who have qualifications equivalent to those specified in subsection 1.1.2.1; or
1.1.2.3
persons who have completed requirements for the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science, or equivalent;
1.1.3.1
graduates of the University of Sydney holding the degree of Bachelor of Science or any other equivalent award of the University of Sydney;
1.1.3.2
graduates of other universities or other appropriate institutions who have qualifications equivalent to those specified in subsection 1.1.3.1; or
1.1.3.3
persons who have completed requirements for the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science, or equivalent.
1.2
In relation to particular subject areas the Dean may require applicants to satisfy additional specific requirements relating to that subject area.
1.3.1
Applicants for the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) should hold a bachelor's degree with credit average results in substantial study in areas of relevance to Molecular Biotechnology, such as biochemistry, biology, chemistry, genetics or molecular biology, or have previous experience in a relevant area that is considered to demonstrate the knowledge and aptitude required to undertake this award course.
1.3.2
Applicants for the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) should hold a bachelor's degree with credit average results in substantial study in areas of relevance to Molecular Biotechnology, such as biochemistry, biology, chemistry, genetics or molecular biology, or have completed the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) at the University of Sydney, without failing any units of study.
1.3.3
Applicants for a Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) should hold a bachelor's degree with credit average results in substantial study in areas of relevance to Molecular Biotechnology, such as biochemistry, biology, chemistry, genetics or molecular biology; or have completed the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) at the University of Sydney, without failing any units of study; or have completed the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) at the University of Sydney without failing more than 6 credit points of study.
2.1
The units of study for the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science, Graduate Diploma in Applied Science and Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) are listed in the table of units of study for Molecular Biotechnology Postgraduate coursework degrees in this chapter of the Faculty of Science Handbook.
2.2
Credit point value, assumed knowledge, corequisites, prerequisites and any special conditions are included in the unit of study descriptions.
3.
Requirements for Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) (GradCertApplSc(MBT)); Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) (GradDipApplSc(MBT)); Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) (MApplSc(MBT))
3.1
Candidates for the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) are required to complete satisfactorily two core units of study (MOBT5101 and MOBT5102).
3.2
Candidates for the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) are required to complete satisfactorily two core units of study (MOBT5101 and MOBT5102) and 12 credit points from optional units of study, excluding MOBT5303.
3.3
Candidates for the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) are required to complete satisfactorily four core units of study (MOBT5101, MOBT5102, BIOL5002 or BETH5201, and MOBT5303) and 12 credit points from optional units of study.
4.1
The units of study for the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science, Graduate Diploma in Applied Science and Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) are listed in the table of units of study in this chapter of the Faculty of Science Handbook.
4.2
A candidate for the course shall proceed by completing units of study as prescribed by the Faculty.
4.3
A unit of study shall consist of such lectures, seminars, tutorial instruction, essays, exercises, practical work, or project work as may be prescribed.
4.6
The Dean may allow substitution of any unit of study by another unit of study, including units of study from other postgraduate coursework programs in the Faculty or elsewhere in the University.
4.7
The Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) shall be awarded in two grades, namely Pass and, in the case of an outstanding candidate, Pass with Merit.
6.1
Cross institutional study shall not be available to students enrolled in the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science, Graduate Diploma in Applied Science and Master of Applied Science courses, except where the University of Sydney has a formal Cooperation Agreement with another University.
7.3
In considering an application for admission to candidature the Dean shall take account of the quota and will select, in preference, applicants who are most meritorious in terms of sub-section 1 above.
8.1
A student who does not enrol in any semester without first obtaining written permission from the Dean to suspend candidature will be deemed to have discontinued enrolment in the course.
8.2
Students who have discontinued from the course will be required to apply for admission to the course and be subject to admission requirements pertaining at that time.
10.1
A student who plans to re-enrol after a period of suspension must advise the Faculty of Science Office in writing of their intention by no later than the end of October for First Semester of the following year or the end of May for Second Semester of the same year.
11.1
Candidates for the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology), the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology), and the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology), shall be governed by the rules as follows:
11.1.1
A student who has failed a cumulative total of 12 credit points at any stage of enrolment in the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) will be required to show good cause why he or she should be allowed to re-enrol and, if good cause has not been established, the student's enrolment will be transferred to the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology);
11.1.2
A student who has failed a cumulative total of 18 credit points at any stage of enrolment in the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and/or the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) will be required to show good cause why he or she should be allowed to re-enrol and, if good cause has not been established, the student's enrolment will be transferred to the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology);
11.1.3
A student who has failed a cumulative total of 12 credit points at any stage of enrolment in the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) will be required to show good cause why he or she should be allowed to re-enrol and, if good cause has not been established, the student will not be permitted to re-enrol.
11.2
A student who has failed a cumulative total of more than 18 credit points in the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and/or the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and/or the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) will be required to show good cause why he or she should be allowed to re-enrol and, if good cause has not been established, the student will not be permitted to re-enrol.
11.3.1
A student who has failed a core unit at the second attempt in the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and/or the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and/or the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) will be deemed to have failed to complete course requirements and will be required to show good cause why he or she should be allowed to re-enrol.
12.1
A candidate for the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) shall complete the requirements for the award in a minimum enrolment of one semester and a maximum enrolment of four semesters.
12.2
A candidate for the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) shall complete the requirements for the award in a minimum enrolment of two semesters and a maximum enrolment of six semesters.
12.3
A candidate for the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) shall complete the requirements for the award in a minimum of two semesters and a maximum of eight semesters.
13.1
On completion of the requirements for the course, the Faculty shall determine the results of the candidature.
14.1
Credit is not available in the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology), Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) for postgraduate study which has not been undertaken in these award courses within the previous three years.
14.2
A candidate who has qualified for the award of the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) may transfer, within three years, to the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and receive credit for up to 24 credit points from the Graduate Certificate in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology).
14.3
A candidate who has qualified for the award of the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) may transfer, within three years, to the Master of Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology) and receive credit for up to 36 credit points from the Graduate Diploma in Applied Science (Molecular Biotechnology).