Explore the top UK universities for Biotechnology in 2026. Our rankings highlight institutions excelling in research innovation, teaching quality, and graduate success in this fast-growing field.
Best Universities for Biotechnology: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Glasgow | 90 | 80 |
| 2 Silver | University of Manchester | 89 | 75 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Leeds | 87 | 70 |
| 4 | University of Nottingham | 86 | 74 |
| 5 | University of Sheffield | 85 | 78 |
| 6 | University of York | 84 | 72 |
| 7 | University of Edinburgh | 83 | 70 |
| 8 | University of Birmingham | 82 | 76 |
| 9 | University of Liverpool | 81 | 69 |
| 10 | University of Southampton | 80 | 68 |
1. University of Glasgow Gold
2. University of Manchester
3. University of Leeds
4. University of Nottingham
5. University of Sheffield
6. University of York
7. University of Edinburgh
8. University of Birmingham
9. University of Liverpool
10. University of Southampton
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Biotechnology rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Biotechnology Universities Explained
University of Cambridge
World-class research facilities and strong industry links.
University of Manchester
Known for cutting-edge biotech research and high employability rates.
University of Edinburgh
Excellent teaching with diverse course options and strong student support.
University of Glasgow
Balanced academic excellence and vibrant student life.
University of Nottingham
Strong focus on practical skills and real-world applications.
University of Leeds
Noted for collaborative research and industry partnerships.
University of Sheffield
High student satisfaction and innovative course content.
University of Birmingham
Robust research output and excellent graduate prospects.
University of Southampton
Known for its cutting-edge labs and employability support.
Newcastle University
Welcoming campus community with solid academic reputation.
Career Prospects After a Biotechnology Degree
Graduates can pursue careers in pharmaceuticals, medical research, environmental biotech, and more. For related fields, check out Biomedical Science and Biology.
Biotechnology Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Entry usually requires A-levels in biology and chemistry, with UCAS points ranging from 120 to 160 depending on the university. Visit our entry requirements guide for full details.
Cheapest Cities to Study Biotechnology in the UK
Consider studying in Glasgow, Leeds, or Sheffield for a great balance of cost and quality of life.
Best Biotechnology Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Newcastle, and Leeds offer vibrant nightlife and social scenes to complement your studies.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Universities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Sheffield lead in mental health services and student support for biotech students.
Not Sure About Biotechnology? Consider These Alternatives
Explore related courses such as Pharmacy, Chemistry, or Biomedical Science.
Summary: Which Biotechnology Uni is Right for You?
Focus on research opportunities, teaching quality, and campus life when making your choice. Use our rankings to find the university that fits your ambitions and lifestyle.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Biotechnology
Leading universities for Biotechnology include University of Cambridge, University of Manchester, and University of Edinburgh. Check our 2026 rankings for the latest on teaching and student satisfaction.
University of Cambridge often ranks top for Biotechnology, thanks to its world-class research and excellent graduate prospects.
Biotechnology degrees offer strong career paths in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental sectors, with good graduate demand.
The UK is renowned for Biotechnology, but countries like the USA, Germany, and Canada also offer top-tier programs and opportunities.
Typical A-level requirements include Biology and Chemistry, with Maths or Physics often recommended. Always check university-specific entry requirements.
Graduates can pursue roles in biotech firms, pharmaceuticals, research, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental management.
Demand remains strong, especially in medical research, pharmaceuticals, and environmental biotech sectors.
Starting salaries typically range from £23,000 to £30,000, with growth depending on sector and experience.
Courses with intensive lab work, research projects, and interdisciplinary subjects can be the most challenging.
Graduates work in biotech companies, pharmaceutical firms, research institutes, environmental agencies, and healthcare.
Biotechnology is highly respected, combining biology and technology to solve real-world problems in health and environment.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked