This international Master of Science programme addresses both applied and research-oriented topics across the value chain from raw materials to industrial products. Taught in English, the course equips students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills in materials chemistry and mineralogy, preparing graduates for roles in research, industry, and related sectors.
The curriculum is split into a compulsory core and a flexible elective section that allows you to specialise in either materials chemistry or mineralogy. The compulsory portion (42 CP) delivers foundational lectures and practical exercises in mineralogy, crystallography, solid-state and surface chemistry, materials science, and a broad training in analytical techniques. The elective portion (48 CP) lets you deepen subject-specific knowledge and acquire specialised skills relevant to your chosen focus.
The programme is genuinely interdisciplinary, run jointly by the faculties of Geosciences and Chemistry with significant input from the Engineering faculty and the University of Applied Sciences. This collaborative setup gives students access to a wide range of expertise, laboratory infrastructure and applied research projects spanning both fundamental science and industrial applications.
Program requirements (study-related)
The first semester builds a broad interdisciplinary foundation with lectures and exercises in mineralogy, crystallography, chemistry and materials science. At the same time a practical, two‑semester training course in analytical methods begins and continues into the second semester. A dedicated profile section (48 CP total) runs across the first two semesters: you choose a main profile—Mineralogy or Chemistry—where you must complete 30–42 CP, and select 6–18 CP from the other profile.
A General Studies module complements the technical courses by strengthening transferable skills: you pick a soft‑skills course from the university’s offerings and also complete a programming class. In the third semester you move into hands‑on research: students carry out two individual laboratory research modules offered by research groups (at least one must belong to your chosen profile). These research modules train you to design, execute and present research projects and directly prepare you for the Master’s thesis. The fourth semester is dedicated to writing the thesis and defending it in a colloquium.
Most courses follow a weekly timetable during the two academic semesters (October–February and April–July). Short field excursions, concentrated lab work or special project blocks may be scheduled as multi‑week blocks during semester breaks, depending on elective choices. The programme therefore balances classroom theory, regular practical training and intensive field or lab blocks to develop both analytical and research skills.
This program seeks applicants with a clear interest in natural sciences and materials — especially their application, characterization and development. You should hold a Bachelor of Science (or an equivalent degree) in a natural science subject that has a focus on chemistry, crystallography, materials science or mineralogy. International equivalents are considered, provided they match the subject-related requirements below.
In addition to the academic background, candidates must demonstrate relevant subject-specific coursework, pass the programme’s aptitude test, and show strong English language ability. Personal qualities such as the capacity to work independently, to collaborate effectively in teams, and intercultural competence are also required.
Admission requirements (summary)
Winter Semester (International)
30 April 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
30 April 2026
This programme prepares graduates for technical and research roles in sectors dealing with raw materials, materials development and characterisation, analytical laboratories, and related industrial applications. The combination of laboratory experience, analytical skills and subject specialisation also provides a solid foundation for doctoral studies or research positions.
Graduates will be equipped to work in interdisciplinary teams in industry, public research institutions or consultancy, and to engage in international collaborations thanks to the English-language training and intercultural study environment.
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