Courses and degrees

A-Z study options

Biochemistry and molecular biology

Why study Biochemistry and molecular biology?

Our postgraduate biochemistry and molecular biology program has options for a variety of career paths and study interests. We offer advanced training in biotechnology and molecular biology at Masters-level. We also provide laboratory-based training including data management and a research-based component that is a pathway to PhD studies. We have an extensive PhD program where students are supervised by world leading research staff in state-of- the art laboratories.

The strength in research in this area is demonstrated by the 2012 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) ratings. In Biochemistry and Cell Biology, La Trobe was one of only two universities whose research output was rated well above world standard (achieving the maximum score of 5).

Students have access to some of the best teaching and research facilities in the world with the construction of a new $94 million La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science (LIMS) building. LIMS focuses on training researchers to turn molecular science, biotechnology and nanotechnology research into medical solutions.

See the Research tab for information about Master's by research, or PhD.

Career opportunities

Graduates are prepared for careers in many aspects related to biomedical research, molecular cell biology and biotechnology.

Courses

Local students

Biochemistry and molecular biology courses (Mid year entry)
Offer year	Course title	Campus(es)	Duration	Semester starts
2013	Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics	Melbourne	2 years full-time or up to 4 years part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics continued… Course description This laboratory-based course aims to give students broad-ranging skills required to excel in the rapidly developing field of biotechnology. The curriculum covers key elements of biotechnology and the manipulation of molecular biological data. It provides a wide range of practical experiences in laboratory settings, including intensive short projects, industry visits, and multiple weekly practical sessions. The course has a strong research focus, and comprises coursework (50 per cent) and research-based thesis (50 per cent). Students work in a specifically designed research laboratory with computer access. Prerequisite Bachelor degree including at least second-year university-level biology. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $20,580 per 120 credit points. Additional information Students may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics after completing first year. How to apply Apply directly to the University up to two weeks prior to the commencement of the course. Download, complete and submit a postgraduate coursework application form (PDF 77KB). Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (Master)Melbourne
2013	Master of Biotechnology / Master of Business Administration	Melbourne	2 years full-time	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Master of Biotechnology / Master of Business Administration continued… Course description This course enables students to develop biotechnology skills and high-quality business management skills without requiring a major research component. It provides a perfect training ground for a career in management within the biotechnology industry. The biotechnology course offers students with a biotechnology background the opportunity to further develop their laboratory skills and other essential attributes for the biotechnology sector, including science communication, teamwork and analytical skills. The MBA component provides the knowledge required for positions in business management. The course runs over two regular semesters and a summer semester. Prerequisite Bachelor degree, or equivalent, with at least two years (four semesters) of biology-related subjects such as biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, cell biology, molecular biology, plant biotechnology, genetics, biotechnology, botany or pharmacology. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $20,120 per 120 credit points. Additional information NOTE: students may choose to commence in September (Term 4). See Course Structure for more information. The two degrees will only be conferred on completion of both components. Students will only be doing 75% of each degree so they will not be eligible to be awarded the individual degree for either SMBT or MBA if they do not complete the full program. How to apply Apply directly to the University up to two weeks prior to the commencement of the course. Download, complete and submit an . Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Biotechnology / Business Administration (Master)Melbourne
2013	Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics	Melbourne	1 year full-time or up to 2 years part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics continued… Course description This unique course aims to train students in the key elements of biotechnology and the manipulation of molecular biological data. With a strong emphasis on embedding research skills, the course offers a wide variety of practical experiences in laboratory settings - including intensive short projects, industry visits, and multiple weekly practical sessions. The program also provides opportunities to develop communication and higher-order thinking skills, including analysis, critical inquiry and problem-solving. Second-year students undertake a year-long individual project as a member of a specialised research group, under the supervision of a scientific mentor. Furthermore, all students have the chance to conduct research in our new facilities within the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS) or AgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, both located at the Melbourne campus. Prerequisite Bachelor degree or equivalent, with at least second-year university-level biology. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $20,580 per 120 credit points. How to apply Apply directly to the University up to two weeks prior to the commencement of the course. Download, complete and submit an . Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (Postgraduate Diploma)Melbourne
2013	Postgraduate Diploma in Science	Albury-Wodonga Melbourne	1 year full-time or up to 2 years part-time	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Postgraduate Diploma in Science continued… Course description This course offers students study options in various disciplines, depending on campus of enrolment. Melbourne: biochemistry, botany, chemistry, genetics, mathematics, microbiology, physics, statistical sciences, and zoology. Albury-Wodonga: environmental management and ecology, botany, chemistry, genetics, microbiology, statistical science and zoology. Prerequisite Bachelor degree in an area relevant to the chosen discipline. Fee type Fees (Fee-Help available) Fee amount Indicative (2012): $20,580 per 120 credit points. Additional information Start dates vary according to discipline. Some disciplines begin in February at Melbourne campus and January at Albury-Woodonga campus, before the regular undergraduate year; some have no mid-year entry. For details, check with relevant departments. Chemistry, physics, mathematics and statistical sciences are only available at the Melbourne campus. How to apply If applying to the Melbourne campus apply directly to the University up to two weeks prior to commencement of the course. If applying to the Albury Woodonga campus, please do so before 16 December 2011. Download, complete and submit a postgraduate website. Please ensure you also provide all supplementary information required. Professional recognition Depending on the specific studies chosen, graduates may be eligible for accreditation with a relevant science professional association. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Science (Postgraduate Diploma)Melbourne

How to apply?

Methods of application vary from course to course. Please see the course entry above for details of how to apply for the course you are interested in.

Fees and scholarships

Postgraduate coursework programs are either:

Fee-paying (where you pay the full cost of the course). FEE-HELP is available.
CSP (Commonwealth Supported Place), subsidised by the Commonwealth Government where you pay a contribution towards course costs. HECS-HELP is available.

Students enrolled for certain postgraduate coursework programs may be eligible for student income support.

International students

Show mid year entryShow next year’s courses

Biochemistry and molecular biology international courses
Offer year	Course title (CRICOS)	Campus(es)	Duration	Semester starts	Annual Tuition Fee (AUD)
2013	Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (049585K)	Melbourne	2 years	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)	$25 060
Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics continued… Year 2013 Course description This laboratory-based course aims to give students broad-ranging skills required to excel in the rapidly developing field of biotechnology. The curriculum covers key elements of biotechnology and the manipulation of molecular biological data. It provides a wide range of practical experiences in laboratory settings, including intensive short projects, industry visits, and multiple weekly practical sessions. The course has a strong research focus, and comprises coursework (50 per cent) and research-based thesis (50 per cent). Students work in a specifically designed research laboratory with computer access. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0. TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English). TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22. La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0. Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59. Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher. Or approved international equivalent. Academic entry requirements An Australian Bachelors degree with at least second-year University-level biology, or an approved international equivalent. Additional information Students may exit with a Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics after completing first year, but only if they decide not to proceed to the second year. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (Master)Melbourne
2013	Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (049586J)	Melbourne	1 year	Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)	$25 060
Postgraduate Diploma in Biotechnology and Bioinformatics continued… Year 2013 Course description This unique course aims to train students in the key elements of biotechnology and the manipulation of molecular biological data. With a strong emphasis on embedding research skills, the course offers a wide variety of practical experiences in laboratory settings - including intensive short projects, industry visits, and multiple weekly practical sessions. The program also provides opportunities to develop communication and higher-order thinking skills, including analysis, critical inquiry and problem-solving. Second-year students undertake a year-long individual project as a member of a specialised research group, under the supervision of a scientific mentor. Furthermore, all students have the chance to conduct research in our new facilities within the La Trobe Institute for Molecular Sciences (LIMS) or AgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, both located at the Melbourne campus. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0. TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English). TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22. La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0. Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59. Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher. Or approved international equivalent. Academic entry requirements An Australian Bachelor's degree containing at least second-year university-level biology, or an approved international equivalent. Additional information This course forms the first year of the Master of Biotechnology and Bioinformatics. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (Postgraduate Diploma)Melbourne
2013	Postgraduate Diploma in Science (003303E)	Albury-Wodonga Melbourne	1 year	Semester 1 (March)	$25 060
Postgraduate Diploma in Science continued… Year 2013 Course description This course offers students study options in various disciplines, depending on campus of enrolment. Melbourne: biochemistry, botany, chemistry, genetics, mathematics, microbiology, physics, statistical sciences, and zoology. Albury-Wodonga: environmental management and ecology, botany, chemistry, genetics, microbiology, statistical science and zoology. English Language Requirements IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0. TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English). TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22. La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website. English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0. Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59. Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher. Or approved international equivalent. Academic entry requirements An Australian Bachelor's degree or approved international equivalent, with a major in a relevant area. Additional information Please note this course has January and July start dates at the Albury-Wodonga campus. Also, start dates vary according to the discipline chosen. Some disciplines begin in February, before the start of Semester 1 (March); while other subjects had no Semester 2 (July) dates. For details on structure and subject, check with relevant departments of the faculty Professional recognition Depending on the specific studies chosen, graduates may be eligible for accreditation with a relevant scientific professional association. Full course details Course structures and subject information for the following cours(es): Science (Postgraduate Diploma)Melbourne

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Related study options

Your study experience

Overseas study opportunities

Gain valuable overseas experience by studying with one of our global exchange partners. La Trobe has partnerships with over 100 universities in more than 30 countries in Asia, Europe, and North and South America. See education abroad.

Find out about the experiences of our students.

Ms Sophie Wayth,
Bachelor of Science
"Transferring to La Trobe has greatly enhanced my education and my career opportunities."

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academic staff during your studies, from tutors through to lecturers and supervisors. You can view staff in Biochemistry and molecular biology or search all staff in the Faculty of Science, Technology and Engineering.