Overview The Master of Science in Plant Sciences at the University of Bonn is embedded in a broad research environment that includes six departments and more than 20 dedicated plant-science research groups. Launched in the winter semester of 2008, the programme gives students a comprehensive view of modern plant biology, spanning molecular and cellular processes through physiology to biotic/abiotic interactions and global biodiversity.
Curriculum and research focus The course places strong emphasis on hands-on research: students undertake practical laboratory work in the participating research groups and build toward an independently conducted Master’s thesis. Core compulsory modules include Plant Biochemistry and Physiology, Plant Cell Biology, and Plant Biodiversity and Systematics, supported by elective laboratory courses during the first and second semesters. At the same time, learners can tailor their studies by concentrating on a specific research area or by choosing from a wide selection of elective topics.
Who this is for This programme suits students who want an integrated training in contemporary plant science with a clear research orientation—especially those aiming for careers in academic research, applied plant science, conservation, or related industries. The university’s large network of research groups provides opportunities for interdisciplinary supervision, practical skills development, and collaboration across subfields.
Key facts and application information
This master’s curriculum is organised according to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) and spans two years, during which students accumulate a total of 120 ECTS (typically 30 credits per semester). The programme combines structured lectures and seminars with a strong practical component: integrated laboratory courses—designed to run in consecutive blocks of up to five weeks—are a central element, ensuring extended hands-on experience in experimental work.
Coursework is taught through morning lectures grouped into three major thematic areas: A) plant biochemistry and physiology, B) plant biodiversity and systematics, and C) plant cell biology. Each lecture stream is complemented by optional seminars, allowing you to deepen specific topics and engage in critical discussion. The modular design also permits flexibility: you may include laboratory placements at external (non-university) institutions as part of your study plan; these external lab courses are assessed and credited on the same basis as on-campus practicals.
Key modules and expected learning outcomes
Programme facts (concise)
You should hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree in the life sciences or a closely related area. Typical backgrounds include biology and biochemistry, but degrees such as agricultural biology, biotechnology or forestry are also appropriate. Candidates coming from pharmacy, chemistry, physics or geosciences will be considered as well.
In addition to your degree background, the programme expects solid academic performance, proof of English language ability, and hands-on laboratory experience. Specifically, applicants need a minimum German grade of 2.7 (or an equivalent local grade), English proficiency at CEFR level B2, and practical laboratory training amounting to 20 ECTS (or an equivalent level of practical coursework/experience).
Admission requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
30 April 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
30 April 2026
Graduates acquire strong practical and research skills suited to continuing in academic research (e.g. PhD programmes) or joining R&D teams in industry sectors such as plant biotechnology, crop science, environmental and conservation organisations. The programme’s emphasis on laboratory competence and project-based work also prepares students for technical and specialist roles in analytical labs, public research institutes and private-sector research units.
Practical internships and the option to work with external research centres broaden career pathways and can help students establish professional networks in both academia and industry.