Department of BIOTECHNOLOGY

INTRODUCTION

Zimbabwe is currently facing the huge challenge of improving the living standards of the vast majority of its population. In order for this to be accomplished, it is necessary to create employment and infrastructure through a thriving economy. The Zimbabwean government has identified Biotechnology as one of the vehicles that may be used to meet the requirements necessary to generate wealth in the country. Biotechnology is the exploitation of biological processes to produce commercially valuable products and processes. Biotechnology is an exciting multidisciplinary field of study with excellent career opportunities. This programme draws on expertise from a number of scientists including Food Technologists, Molecular Biologists, Biotechnologists, Biochemists, Microbiologists, Mathematicians and Chemical Engineers.
 

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

This programme aims to:-

To enable students to become Biotechnologists, providing them with the necessary scientific and entrepreneurship skills that will allow them to contribute to the development of Zimbabwe To promote biotechnology for more efficient utilization of agricultural resources To strengthen the farming sector through promoting conservation and processing of produce to make them economically more remunerative. To improve food security in Zimbabwe and the region, particularly for the vulnerable groups To stimulate the development of new biotechnological products for the benefit of the community

Qualifications for entry to programme

Normal Entry:
  Candidates should:-

good Advanced Level passes in Chemistry and Biology plus any of the following Mathematics or Physics. For selection purposes, credit will be given for O' level passes in Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics or Physics. 'O' Level pass in English is a requirement. A candidate who holds a National Diploma in Applied Biology and Biochemistry or Chemical Technology, or an equivalent qualification from a recognized Institution may be considered for direct entry into Second year Semester 1 of the degree programme provided they have covered all the necessary courses.

Special Entry:
  A candidate who holds a National Diploma in Biotechnology, Applied Biology and Biochemistry or Chemical Technology, or an equivalent qualification from a recognized Institution may be considered for direct entry into first year Semester II of the degree programme provided they have covered all the necessary courses.
 

Programmes on Offer

  Bachelor Of Technology Honours Degree In Biotechnology
 

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

In accordance with the General Regulations, the Bachelor of Technology Honours Degree in Biotechnology requires the study of a range of courses over four years. This includes one academic year of Industrial attachment.
 

Career opportunities

Bright career opportunities await those who successfully complete the Bachelor of Technology Honours Degree in Biotechnology. They can be employed as Biotechnologists, Production Managers, and Research Scientists and in Research Institutes or Universities. Graduates can also work for Non Governmental Organizations and the Government. Some can pursue Higher Degrees in the field of Biotechnology. More importantly, the programme is designed to equip students with knowledge and skills in setting up and running their own Businesses and Consultancy firms.