Overview
This English-taught MSc program brings together developmental and cell biology, neurobiology and behavioural biology, allowing you to specialise deeply in one or more of these fields. The curriculum spans a broad spectrum of topics — from molecular and cellular mechanisms to higher-level cognitive function — giving a comprehensive view of biological processes across levels of organization.
Who it’s for and research environment
The degree is designed for students who are particularly interested in developmental processes, the structure and function of nervous systems, or experimental and theoretical approaches to behaviour. Teaching and supervision are provided by active researchers who work closely with the university, the German Primate Centre and several Max Planck Institutes, offering a strong, research-oriented environment and direct links to internationally recognised research centres.
Requirements
This four‑semester, 120 ECTS MSc is a highly research-driven programme designed for students with a BSc in biology or a closely related life‑science background. Taught within an active, internationally recognised research environment, the curriculum is modular and emphasises hands‑on laboratory experience alongside advanced theoretical training.
During the first two semesters students complete core modules—lectures, seminars and practical methods courses—that build foundational subject knowledge and experimental skills. These are followed by advanced, individually organised laboratory projects delivered as lab rotations, allowing students to gain experience in different research groups and techniques. Students may also choose university‑wide and cross‑faculty modules to develop additional professional and transferable competencies. The programme culminates in an independent Master’s thesis in the fourth semester, typically embedded in a current, externally funded research project.
Graduates emerge with advanced understanding of developmental, neural and behavioural biology, practical competence in experimental design and laboratory methods, quantitative data analysis, and scientific communication skills. The degree prepares students for professional roles in the biosciences and is a formal prerequisite for doctoral studies; a fast‑track route into the faculty’s consecutive PhD programmes is available for outstanding candidates.
Requirements (concise)
Applicants should hold a completed undergraduate degree in a biological discipline to be eligible for this MSc. The programme expects a Bachelor's-level qualification (or an equivalent university degree) in Biology or Biosciences as the academic foundation for graduate study in developmental, neural, and behavioural biology.
“Equivalent” covers comparable bachelor’s qualifications from institutions outside the issuing country; if your prior degree has substantial biological or bioscience content but is named differently, you may still meet the requirement. If you are unsure whether your qualification counts as equivalent, contact the admissions office for confirmation and guidance before applying.
Admission requirements (summary)
Winter Semester (International)
15 February 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 May 2026
The MSc qualifies graduates to pursue professional roles in biosciences or to continue with doctoral research; it is explicitly a prerequisite for undertaking a PhD and offers a fast-track option into the faculty's consecutive PhD programmes. Graduates are well prepared for research careers in academia and research institutes, and for positions in biotechnology, pharmaceutical industry, conservation and applied behavioural research, as well as science communication and laboratory-based roles.