This MSc is a research-focused, interdisciplinary programme taught in English that brings chemistry into conversation with adjacent life and physical sciences. Students follow a curriculum that emphasizes current scientific and technological advances and is built around intensive research training. The course is designed to develop the analytical and practical skills needed to work with molecules across different scientific contexts.
You choose between two complementary pathways: Molecular Life Science, which merges chemistry with pharmacy, medicine and biology to address molecular problems in the life sciences; or Molecular Nanoscience, which combines chemistry with materials science, technology and physics to explore molecular and nanoscale materials. Both routes stress cross-disciplinary approaches, giving you exposure to methods and perspectives from several fields.
Graduates are prepared for careers in contemporary, molecule-centered areas such as the molecular life sciences, nanomaterials and other advanced applications that rely on up-to-date scientific and technological know‑how. The programme’s research orientation also makes it a strong stepping stone for doctoral studies or research positions in academia and industry.
Admissions — typical documents and prerequisites (confirm exact requirements on the official programme page)
The programme combines lectures, seminars and hands-on laboratory courses to build both theoretical depth and practical skills. Early in the course students commit to one of two 40-credit specialisations — Molecular Nanoscience or Drug Discovery — which form the backbone of the degree. That chosen core is supported by a closely related compulsory elective (20 credits) that deepens topical expertise; examples include Advances in Bioorganic & Bioinorganic Chemistry, Advances in Organic Chemistry, Advances in Homogenous Catalysis, Advances in Interface & Catalysis Research, and Advances in Energy Materials.
In the third semester you broaden your profile through a flexible 15-credit elective package (allowing choices beyond traditional chemistry topics) and a 15-credit advanced research module carried out within one of the research disciplines represented at FAU. Successful completion of these modules leads into the fourth semester, which is devoted to an independent research project and the Master’s thesis.
Typical learning outcomes include advanced competence in experimental and analytical techniques, the ability to design and execute research projects, specialised knowledge in either molecular nanoscience or drug discovery, and the capacity to communicate scientific results clearly and work across disciplinary boundaries.
Requirements (concise)
Applicants must hold a completed, relevant Bachelor's degree with strong academic performance. Your qualification must be documented by a Bachelor’s certificate/diploma issued by a German or an internationally recognized university.
In addition to the degree, the programme expects substantial subject-specific preparation. You should be able to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of molecule-based disciplines and advanced practical skills in molecular synthesis; evidence of this is a high proportion of laboratory practicals or lab-based coursework in your undergraduate studies. International applicants should be prepared to submit transcripts and course descriptions that clearly show the extent of laboratory training.
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for research and development roles in molecule-based life sciences, nanomaterials, pharmaceuticals, and related high-tech industries. The programme's strong laboratory training and research component also make alumni competitive candidates for PhD programmes and academic research positions.
Additionally, the interdisciplinary training supports careers in industry R&D, technical specialist roles, and positions that require bridging chemistry with biology, medicine or materials science.