Degree programme Biochemistry (Master) accredited

Admission requirements

In order to be accepted into the programme, you must have obtained a degree or a qualification that is recognised in Germany in the fields of chemistry, biology, molecular biotechnology or a comparable field from a university or state/state-approved university of cooperative education. A further requirement is proficiency in the English language at the B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is also required. For applicants whose native language is not English, this level must be verified by presenting a certificate for English at the 12th or 13th grade level of the German Abitur system or, alternatively, by presenting the results of a completed language test offered internationally (preferably IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 550 points).

NC (numerus clausus) selection

General information regarding NC selection procedures can be found here.
A short version regarding the NC selection procedure in English can be found here.

Application hints and tips

The course is being offered for the first time. If you wish to apply and begin your studies in the winter semester of 2019/2020, you may only apply and enrol for the 1st, 2nd or 3rd semesters. To begin in the following summer semester 2020, you many only apply and enrol for the 2nd, 3rd or 4th semesters.

General information for the degree programme

The master's programme in biochemistry, which builds on a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biochemistry, biology or molecular biotechnology, prepares students for jobs in modern research centres and companies in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology and the life sciences.

The graduates have in-depth specialist knowledge necessary for professional practice, can grasp interdisciplinary contexts and are qualified for highly qualified jobs at teaching and research institutions, in the industry and with authorities. They are additionally prepared for further qualification in national and international graduate programmes.

Study contents

The master's programme in biochemistry is research-oriented.

The contents of the degree programme are based on the recommendations for the establishment of master programmes in biochemistry of the German Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (GBM), the Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker (GDCh) and the Verband der Chemischen Industrie. The focus is hereby on protein and enzyme biochemistry as well as metabolic processes, especially in natural substance biosynthesis, with a chemical orientation. Another focus is on cellular processes in prokaryotes and eukaryotes with a strong biological orientation. Practical activities in these areas form an essential part of the studies. In addition, the course includes environmental issues and regulations as well as guidelines for good scientific practice.

The graduates have a broad theoretical and practical background in biochemistry and the chemistry of biological systems that is supplemented by extensive knowledge of materials and current methods. They are thus able to deal with complex questions of biochemistry in a scientific, sound and critical manner. At the same time, they learn to solve tasks independently as well as in an interdisciplinary manner. Graduates acquire key professional qualifications such as communication and team skills, work organisation and project planning.

The master's programme in biochemistry is carried out across all faculties and is highly interdisciplinary, international and research-oriented. The degree programme is comprised of modules, and courses are spread over three semesters. The fourth semester is dedicated to the master's thesis and the colloquium. The third semester is designed in such a way that it is particularly suitable for a temporary stay at another university (mobility window). The programme comprises six compulsory modules as well as elective modules with 35 credit points in technical biochemistry, chemistry of biological systems and general modules.

The course of studies comprises the focal points "technical biochemistry" and "chemistry of biological systems" and is completed by associated cross-sectional modules.

Professional field

The course enables graduates to work in a variety of fields in modern research centres and companies in the fields of biochemistry, chemistry, biotechnology and the life sciences.

There is also the possibility of obtaining a doctorate.