About the Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics
In La Trobe's Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, you'll learn to harness new and emerging technologies in human health, diagnostics, sustainability, food security and renewable energy.
Develop the human skills and technical expertise to launch a career in a range of exciting industries. From biological products to pharmaceuticals, agriculture to nutrition: you'll be prepared to work in the fields that rely on this fast-growing area of science.
This degree gives you more than flexibility in your career – it also gives you flexibility in how you study. In your final year, you could take an advanced bioinformatics pathway. Or you could choose the research project pathway instead, enjoying unrivalled access to industry networks and researchers in the field and benefiting from 25-30 hours of laboratory time each week.
If you decide you want to head straight into the workforce, you could even exit with a Graduate Diploma in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics after successfully completing the first year of this degree.
You'll learn:
Bioinformatics
Use industry-standard bioinformatics software to address biological problems.
Practical biotechnology
Gain practical skills in PCR, cloning, protein expression, protein purification and immunoblotting laboratory techniques.
Scientific communication skills
Build your expertise in writing reports and presenting data.
Academic entry requirement
Prerequisites
Specialisation - compulsory: At least two years (four semesters) of biology, including at least two semesters in any of the following areas of study at second-year level or above: biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, cell biology, genetics or biotechnology.
Applicants must have an Australian Bachelor's degree (or international equivalent).
WAM - Weighted Average Mark (WAM) 60%
English language requirement
6.5 IELTS (Academic) with no individual band less than 6.0.
Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics intended learning outcomes
Critically analyse and solve complex problems in biotechnology and bioinformatics, including data science, by using expert judgement, advanced knowledge and multidisciplinary approaches
Apply understanding of complex theoretical concepts and the integration of advanced skills and specialised knowledge of biotechnology and bioinformatics
Apply advanced knowledge from biochemistry, bioinformatics, molecular biology and genetics to recent developments in these disciplines
Evaluate the appropriate application of advanced techniques and scientific approaches for scientific problems in biotechnology and bioinformatics
Communicate scientific information in biotechnology and bioinformatics to specialist and non-specialist audiences orally and in writing
Work effectively and ethically individually and as a team member to address scientific problems in biotechnology and bioinformatics
Implement research projects and experiments using advanced concepts and techniques in biotechnology or bioinformatics
Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics career opportunities
Graduates will have the skills and knowledge to find employment in a range of roles, including:
Biotechnologist
Work in biopharmaceutical research and development designing products and constructing biological systems.
Bioinformatician
Collect and interpret data for a range of fields, including genetics and pharmaceutics.
Microbiology
Study microscopic life forms and processes, including their growth, interactions and characteristics.
Research assistant
Perform and analyse experiments, provide technical support to research teams and manage the day-to-day running of a laboratory.
Estimated course fees for international students
Estimated fees per year (2025):
A$39 800 per 120 credit points.
Note: 120 credit points represents full-time study for one year.
International scholarships
Destination Australia – an Australian Government initiative
The Destination Australia scheme supports new international students to study in regional Australia and offers students a high-quality learning experience. For eligible applicants, these scholarships are worth up to A$15 000 per annum for up to four years.