Biotechnology, full-time, MSc studies

Education level: II - Master,

Form of studies: full-time,

Profile of education: Academic

Number of semesters: 4

Degree to be obtained: Master’s degree

Language of instruction ENGLISH

Specializations offered:       

• Plant Biotechnology
• Environmental Biotechnology

Characteristics of the study

The aim of the Biotechnology Master’s degree programme is to prepare students for advanced and independent understanding and interpretation of various biological phenomena related with biotechnology. The master degree project is closely related to the research profile of supervisor who is chosen by a student within the specialisation. The choice of specialisation takes place during registration. Under the supervisor tuition, the student improves his/her skills - posing scientific questions and finding solutions to various problems linked with plant and environmental biotechnology, hence actively participates in the development of science. Each student acquires advanced knowledge on such disciplines as bioinformatics, bioethics, plant and microbial biotechnology. An important and obligatory element of the education is the introduction to modern information technologies and statistical methods in natural sciences. The number of facultative modules enables students to individualize the course of their studies according to their personal interests and selected specialization.

Students of Plant Biotechnology specialisation acquire reliable and up-to-date knowledge of molecular basis of biotechnological processes supporting the methods of plant production for modern agriculture and other industries (e.g. food, manufacturing and pharmaceutical industry).

Students of Environmental Biotechnology specialisation acquire the current knowledge that enables them to apply specific biotechnological methods and techniques based on the utilization of microorganisms and their enzymes in modification and improvement of biological processes in various environments.

Additional important information for candidates:

In accordance with the assumptions of National Qualifications Framework, the study programme is described according to the ECTS enabling international exchange of students and offering a chance of further studies or employment in foreign research institutions. Especially talented students are offered an individual path of study under appointed tutor supervision. They can also broaden their knowledge by participating in student research clubs.

The study programme has been accepted by the Polish Accreditation Committee.

Specialist skills of the graduates refer to handling advanced equipment of biotechnological laboratory as well as applying basic and advanced techniques in plant and environmental biotechnology. The graduates possess the knowledge and practical skills enabling them to take up a job in the developing sector of modern agriculture, environmental and diagnostic laboratories as well as in research and development institutions.

Professional prospects:

• research institutions
• industrial plants applying biotechnological methods
• pharmaceutical, food, agriculture industry (production, distribution, control)
• waste-water and ground treatment plants
• centers of solid waste processing
• plant breeding stations

A minimal number of candidates for the studies to be open is 10.

1. Learning outcomes expected to be presented by a candidate.

A prerequisite for a candidate who wishes to apply for the admission to the second-cycle studies in English is to submit a certificate (e.g. FCE Cambridge, TOEFEL) proving the knowledge of English, otherwise the English language skills of a candidate are evaluated  during interview with the English Recruitment Board.

A candidate is expected to present the knowledge, qualifications and skills acquired at first-cycle, second cycle-studies or a uniform  MSc studies related with natural sciences; especially a candidate should:

• be familiar with basic concepts and terminology related with natural sciences
• define and interpret the basic natural phenomena and processes
• be able to apply the basic techniques and research used in natural sciences
• present knowledge in maths, physics and chemistry necessary to understand the basic natural phenomena and processes

2. Verification of a candidate qualifications

Verification of a candidate qualifications is based on a supplement to diploma or a transcript of records. The verified candidates are classified according to a mean mark of the studies and in case when two or more candidates got the same mean mark, then the following criteria are taken into consideration: mark for diploma dissertation and mark for the final exam, respectively. Based on these criteria the ranking list is created to fill up the limit of places.

Apart from the documents listed in the recruitment resolution, the candidates have to submit to the Recruitment Board (having registered in the Candidate Registration Electronic System of the University of Silesia) a document confirming the mean mark of the studies as well as the mark for the diploma dissertation and of the final examination, authenticated by the University (Academy) of graduation. These marks can be considered as additional qualification criteria.

Candidate for study is obliged to submit an appropriate medical certificate confirming the lack of counter indications to studying this field of study.