Polymer Science MSc

This English-taught, two-year research master's prepares students to work with polymers as advanced functional materials. The programme is aimed at those curious about both natural and engineered materials who want to develop careers in industry, research institutes or academia. Courses and projects move from the molecular level (monomers, synthesis and catalyst design) through characterization and physics to processing and application of polymers and biomacromolecules.

You will study the full spectrum of polymer science: polymer and colloid chemistry, polymer synthesis, catalyst design, polymer analytics and physics, polymer processing, biomaterials and polymer technology. Teaching is research-driven and led by active scholars; students engage with current topics early on, work in small teams and benefit from close interaction with lecturers to build both fundamental and applied skills.

The curriculum emphasizes chemistry — chemical skills are essential — and covers the design of functional polymers and their testing in various application fields. While some engineering modules (e.g., processing) are included, the programme is not focused on plastic engineering. Graduates are highly sought after by the chemical and plastics-producing/processing industries, related sectors, and research institutions; with a PhD they also become competitive for management roles in Germany and internationally.

Requirements (concise)

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in polymer and colloid chemistry, chemistry, biochemistry, physics, materials science or a closely related discipline
• Strong foundation in chemistry (chemical skills are essential)
• Programme language: English
• Standard programme length: 2 years (Master’s level)

Curriculum overview

This two-year, 120‑credit Master’s programme is organised into modules that combine lectures and laboratory courses; the Module Handbook gives detailed workload information for each course. The curriculum is designed to build a solid foundation in polymer science, allow focused specialisation, and provide hands‑on research experience that prepares you for R&D roles, further doctoral studies, or positions in industry.

In the first semester you gain core knowledge by choosing four modules from a list of recommended topics. These modules (except for Polymer Physics I) include both an introductory lecture and a laboratory component to develop practical skills and experimental techniques. Key first‑semester options include Polymer Synthesis, Physical Chemistry of Polymers, Colloids and Surfaces, Polymer Materials and Technology, Polymer Physics I, Organometallic Chemistry, Polymerisation Catalysts, Catalysis and Sustainable Synthesis, and Biomaterials. Learning outcomes at this stage focus on fundamental polymer chemistry and characterization methods, basic lab competence, and the ability to interpret experimental results.

The second semester emphasises specialisation: you pick three advanced modules, each comprising a lecture and a lab, and carry out the labs within one of the programme’s research groups to introduce you to active research early on. Recommended advanced topics include Polymer Architectures; High Performance and Speciality Polymers; Advanced Methods in the Physical Chemistry of Polymers; Current Topics in Colloid, Polymer and Interface Science; Polymer Engineering; Polymer Physics II; Catalyst Design and Sustainable Polymer Chemistry; and Polymer Materials. During this semester you also prepare a research plan that can feed into your third‑semester research modules or your Master’s thesis. In the third semester you complete two research modules (together worth 15 credit points) — these can be undertaken as internships abroad and one may be placed in industry. The fourth semester is devoted to a six‑month Master’s thesis on a current polymer science topic (30 credit points). Core elective modules are offered subject to demand and are announced by the chair of examiners after the board’s decision.

Key learning outcomes

• Mastery of foundational and advanced polymer chemistry concepts and physical chemistry of macromolecules
• Practical laboratory skills in polymer synthesis, catalysis, materials processing and physical characterisation
• Ability to design and carry out research projects, analyse data, and communicate scientific results
• Experience of working in research groups and optional exposure to industry or international internships

Requirements and structure (concise)

• Total credits required: 120 ECTS
• First semester: choose 4 modules from 8–9 recommended basic modules; most include an introductory lecture + lab (Polymer Physics I is the exception)
• Second semester: choose 3 advanced modules; each includes a lecture and a lab conducted in programme research groups
• Third semester: complete 2 research modules (together worth 15 ECTS); may be completed as an internship abroad and one may be in the private sector
• Fourth semester: Master’s thesis worth 30 ECTS, completed over six months
• Detailed workload per course: see the Module Handbook
• Core elective availability: announced by the chair of examiners following the board of examiners’ decision prior to the semester

Graduates are in high demand across the chemical sector, the plastics-producing and processing industries, and related fields. The degree equips students for roles in research and development, product and materials development, and positions at universities and non-university research institutes.

Those who continue to doctoral studies have access to higher-level research and management positions in Germany and internationally. The programme’s strong laboratory and research orientation also makes graduates attractive to medium-sized and large companies seeking specialists in polymer science.