MSc Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement at University of East Anglia

Programme overview

Explore the science of plant breeding and discover how emerging technologies are helping develop crops for a changing world. All while studying at the John Innes Centre, a global leader in plant science. Explore plant breeding, genetics, genomics, bioinformatics, and statistics while learning from internationally recognised experts.

Faculty: Faculty of Science | Department: School of Biological Sciences | Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Intake: Entry points: September; next start September 2027 | Location: Norwich, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

On this one-year course, you’ll take a number of taught modules while completing your research project plan and the six-month laboratory research project. Compulsory modules by year: Year 1: Target Traits for Crop Improvement, Research Project Plan, Practical Skills in Plant Molecular Genetics, Sustainable Food Systems, Laboratory Research Project.

Career pathways

With a MSc in Plant Genetics and Crop Improvement, you could launch a career as a: Plant Breeder: Develop improved crop varieties to support sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental resilience Plant Science Researcher: Contribute to scientific discoveries in genetics, crop improvement, and plant biology Plant Biotechnology Scientist: Apply innovative technologies to solve challenges in agriculture and plant production University Researcher: Conduct cutting-edge research and contribute to advances in plant science and breeding Data Analyst: Use biological, genetic, and genomic data to support research, innovation, and decision-making across industries

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Degree classification Bachelors degree - 2.1. Degree Subject Biological Sciences or Plant Biology. Employment experience with a plant breeding company or related research experience also Applicants are required to submit two references with their application - at least one of these must be related to your most recent academic study. English language: IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component).

Domestic applicants: GBP 15,150 a year (2027/28). Full-time annual tuition fee; part-time fees are charged pro rata Source

International applicants: GBP 29,650 a year (2027/28). Full-time annual tuition fee; part-time fees are charged pro rata Source

Intake: Entry points: September; next start September 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 years part-time

Apply through the official page: https://www.uea.ac.uk/apply/postgraduate/taught

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