Units / BPS3021
BPS3021 · Biotechnology
2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 3Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTCOverview
This unit introduces you to the principles of biotechnology and the application of these principles to pharmaceutical product development. The unit also aims to further develop your skills in information literacy and scientific writing. You will identify and research issues and questions to develop your knowledge of biomolecular pharmaceutical products. You will review published literature addressing the manufacture, purification and formulation of these products. The unit is compatible with Monash University's goals for research-led teaching.
Offerings
| Campus | Teaching period | Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Malaysia | Second semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
| Parkville | Second semester | Teaching activities are on-campus (ON-CAMPUS) |
Assessment
The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.
| # | Assessment | Type | Weight | Hurdle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Laboratory assessments | Project | 20% | — |
| 2 | Individual assignment | Written | 20% | — |
| 3 | Workshop assessments | Written | 10% | — |
| 4 | Mid-semester test | Quiz / Test | 10% | — |
| 5 | Final assessment | Examination | 40% | — |
In-semester assessment 60%, final assessment 40%
Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.
Requisites
The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.
Learning outcomes
- Explain and demonstrate (using standard laboratory techniques) the biotechnology processes used in the production and purification of a recombinant protein pharmaceutical active.
- Discuss the principles involved in the formulation of biomolecules, vaccines and gene therapies.
- Research and report on the considerations affecting the development of biosimilars.
- Methodically interrogate the scientific literature to find, evaluate and discuss relevant sources.
- Write an effective research proposal or product report that follows conventions in the discipline.
Workload
• Eight 3-hour online preparation modules (Discovery) • Eight 2-hour workshops • Six 2-hour laboratories • One hour of scheduled assessment
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Laboratories | 12 hours |
| Workshops | 16 hours |
| Assessments | 1 hours |
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