Biotechnologist (VIC)

State/Territory Specific Information

Education and Training:

To become a biotechnologist you usually have to complete a biotechnology degree or a science degree with a major in one of the life sciences. You may also become a biotechnologist by completing a degree in chemical engineering with a major in any type of biological engineering. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your VCE. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of chemistry and mathematics are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas. Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

  1. Diploma of Laboratory Technology - Biotechnology *
  2. Associate Degree in Biotechnology
  3. Bachelor of Agricultural Science
  4. Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience
  5. Bachelor of Arts - Global / Bachelor of Science
  6. Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Science *
  7. Bachelor of Biological Sciences - Advanced Science
  8. Bachelor of Biomedical Science *
  9. Bachelor of Biomedical Science / Bachelor of Laws
  10. Bachelor of Biomedical Science / Bachelor of Science
  11. Bachelor of Biomedicine
  12. Bachelor of Biotechnology
  13. Bachelor of Biotechnology and Cell Biology
  14. Bachelor of Biotechnology and Innovation
  15. Bachelor of Civil Engineering / Bachelor of Science
  16. Bachelor of Environmental Engineering / Bachelor of Science
  17. Bachelor of Liberal Studies
  18. Bachelor of Science *
  19. Bachelor of Science (Alternative Entry)
  20. Bachelor of Science (Double Degree)
  21. Bachelor of Science - Applied Sciences *
  22. Bachelor of Science - Biochemistry and Chemistry
  23. Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology *
  24. Bachelor of Science - Biotechnology / Bachelor of Commerce
  25. Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Computer Science
  26. Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Education - Primary
  27. Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Education - Secondary
  28. Bachelor of Science / Bachelor of Engineering
  29. Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Advanced) (Honours)
  30. Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours)

Employment Opportunities:

Biotechnologists are employed in federal, state, territory and local government organisations, including research organisations. They are also employed in private industry, hospitals, educational institutions, primary production and fisheries. Entry to some jobs is highly competitive.

While many laboratory roles are more junior, these roles provide opportunities to expand your scientific knowledge with the aim of running your own laboratory or moving into allied business services such as clinical trial development, patenting, business development, project management and regulation. Senior positions in the industry often require an honours, masters or doctorate degree, demonstrating a high level of competence in the laboratory.

For Further Information:

Information for other states and territories: