Biotechnology
Biotechnology is the branch of applied science that uses living organisms and their derivatives to produce products and processes. The Biotechnology cluster is comprised of three disciplines: Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology.
Disciplines
Biochemistry
Biochemistry combines biology and chemistry, but now covers such a wide range of subjects. It studies the proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and DNA that make living cells and organisims work.
Genetics
Genetics explores the pathways that lead from the determinants of heredity to the final expressed trait. It seeks to understand the way in which the basic instructions for this process are encoded and expressed.
Microbiology
Microbiology students learn how to apply new/advanced technologies to explore the make-up, diversity and functioning of micro-organisms, and their relationship with other organisms and the environment.
Programmes
Bachelor of Science (Industrial & Applied Biotechnology)
This three-year undergraduate programme is achieved through a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Industrial and Applied Biotechnology. It offers students the opportunity to acquire basic scientific grounding through a specified set of core and elective module combinations from Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology, Chemistry and Chemical Technology.
Bachelor of Science (LES Stream)
The three-year undergraduate programme leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science (BSc) is achieved through a general and BSc Life and Earth Sciences (LES Stream) with possible major subject combinations of any two of the following:
- Biochemistry (PMB & WVL)
- Biology (PMB)
- Cellular Biology (WVL)
- Ecology (PMB)
- Genetics (PMB & WVL)
- Microbiology (PMB & WVL)
CASSE
CASSE provides alternative access to students predominantly from disadvantaged educational backgrounds who do not meet the entry requirements to enrol for various science and engineering programmes. Though students are expected to study and pass augmented modules in the first two years, they eventually graduate with various qualifications in the school with mainstream students.
How to Apply
All first-time South African applicants to UKZN for entry into degree/ diploma study (Grade 12s and undergraduate transfer students from other institutions) must apply via the Central Applications Office (CAO).
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
A one-year specialist programme leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science (Honours). A minimum of 50% must be achieved at BSc level to gain admittance to Honours.
Honours programmes in Biochemistry (PMB & WVL), Genetics (PMB & WVL), Forensic Genetics (WVL) and Microbiology (PMB & WVL) are offered.
Master of Science
A Master of Science programme is offered, whereby students engage in research under the supervision of an academic staff member. A minimum of a BSc Honours degree or equivalent must be achieved to be considered for this programme. This degree takes a minimum of one year.
Doctor of Philosophy
A Doctor of Philosophy programme is offered where students engage in novel research supervised by academic members of staff. This is typically three years of full-time study and normally follows on from a Master of Science Degree
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted to our College office. Visit the College website to see the steps to follow, download the application pack/ forms and access the link to apply online
Research
Research Areas
We are a research-led institution, producing knowledge for the rapidly-changing and information-rich world.
Student dissertations
UKZN Research Space was developed to increase the visibility, availability and impact of tour students’ research output.
Academic staff
Prof Raymond Hewer
Academic Leader: Biotechnology – PMB
HewerR@ukzn.ac.za | 033 260 5150
Prof Shahidul Islam
Academic Leader: Biotechnology – WVL
IslamD@ukzn.ac.za | 031 260 8717
Contact us
Ms Shereen Samuels
- Administrator - Pietermaritzburg
- 033 260 5525
- samuelss@ukzn.ac.za
Ms Tanya Karalic
- Administrator - Pietermaritzburg
- 033 260 5505
- karalict@ukzn.ac.za
Ms Busisiwe Mbhele
- Administrator - Westville
- 031 260 3192
- mbhelen10@ukzn.ac.za
Ms Shireen Chetram
- Administrator - Westville
- 031 260 1602
- chetramu@ukzn.ac.za
