Bachelor in Biotechnology

Biotechnology brings together the best of two worlds: Biology and Technology. It is a dynamic, innovative, and opportunity-rich field that is transforming the future and driving economic growth. Through creativity, science, and entrepreneurship, Biotechnology develops solutions that make a real difference in key areas such as health and well-being, food and agriculture, and environmental protection, responding to the challenges of the One Health concept.

In the Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology at the University of the Azores, learning goes far beyond theory. The program strongly emphasizes learning by doing, with early exposure to scientific research and hands-on practical experiences. All of this takes place in a truly unique setting: the Azores.

This archipelago is a natural laboratory, with exceptional ecological richness. From the depths of the ocean to volcanic landscapes on land, the Azores offer diverse and fascinating ecosystems, ideal for studying, researching, and innovating. It is within this singular environment that Biotechnology truly comes to life.

Throughout the degree program, critical thinking, social awareness, and a strong sense of responsibility are actively fostered, preparing students to face real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to the solutions that will shape tomorrow.

Candidates may enter through:

1) General Access Regime through National Contest of Access and Admission to Public Higher Education, having to:

i) Take two Entrance Exams according to the following options:

- Biology and Geology + Physics and Chemistry

- Biology and Geology + Mathematics

- Biology and Geology + Portuguese

ii) Minimum Grades:

- Application score: 95 points

- Entrance exams: 95 points

iii) Calculation Formula:

- Secondary school average: 60%

- Entrance exams: 40%

2) Special Regimes through Special Competitions organized by the UAc:

- Over 23 years old

- Holders of a Technological Specialization Diploma

- Holders of a Higher Professional Technician Diploma

- Holders of Other Higher Education Courses

- Holders of dual certification courses in secondary education and specialized artistic courses

- Re-entry and Change of Institution/Course Regimes

- Special competition for access and admission of international students to the UAc

Degree holders in Biotechnology may pursue professional careers in areas such as:

• Agri-food and agricultural industries, including biological improvement, plant biotechnology, food safety, and the development of new products;

• Bioindustries, involving industrial fermentation, biomolecule production, and the optimisation of production processes;

• Pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries, particularly in research, development, production, and quality control;

• Analytical and diagnostic laboratories;

• Environmental biotechnology, working in the sustainable management of natural resources, waste treatment, bioremediation, and environmental monitoring;

• Scientific institutions, as researchers or technicians on scientific projects;

• Technology-based companies and start-ups, in the fields of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology transfer;

• Public and private organisations, in areas such as regulation, biosafety, and quality control.

In addition, the degree provides a solid foundation for the continuation of studies at the Master’s and Doctoral levels in Biotechnology or related fields, at national and international institutions, broadening opportunities for specialisation and professional advancement

With a strong scientific and practical foundation, the Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to create, optimize, and apply biological technologies in areas such as food, agriculture, human and animal health, industry, and the environment, promoting the intelligent use of natural resources.

Throughout this degree program, students will develop teamwork skills, critical thinking, and the ability to respond to real-world challenges, always paying attention to the social, economic, and environmental impact of their decisions.

By the end of the Bachelor’s Degree in Biotechnology, graduates will be able to transform biological resources into innovative products, processes, and solutions, generating economic value in a responsible and sustainable way. They will thus be prepared to actively contribute to the development of the Bioeconomy, one of the pillars of a sustainable future.

This degree program will therefore train professionals capable of linking science, innovation, and sustainability, prepared to enter a growing job market or to pursue advanced studies, contributing to a circular, intelligent, and resilient economy.