This English-taught international Master's programme offers an integrated, interdisciplinary education in both plant and animal breeding. It brings together the full range of breeding research topics — from quantitative and molecular genetics to biotechnology and breeding informatics — so you learn how genetic theory, lab methods and data-driven tools combine to develop improved crop and livestock varieties. The curriculum explicitly connects plant and animal perspectives to close the gap between these traditionally separate fields.
The course is enriched by input from external lecturers representing leading international breeding companies, research institutes and national authorities, giving you exposure to current industry practice and policy issues. Teaching also situates breeding research within related areas such as nutrition, animal health and crop protection, as well as the economic, marketing and ethical questions that influence adoption of new varieties and breeding strategies.
Graduates are prepared to address real-world challenges — for example adapting livestock and crops to a changing environment while meeting evolving consumer expectations — and are in demand globally. Career paths include roles in academic research, commercial breeding companies, public-sector breeding programs and related agri‑biotech or policy organizations.
Requirements / Who should apply
This two-year, 120 ECTS Master's curriculum combines classroom teaching, hands-on experience and an independent research project. The study component (81 ECTS) comprises lectures, seminars and practical training; a research-focused internship of at least six weeks is credited with 9 ECTS; and the Master's thesis plus its colloquium/defence accounts for 30 ECTS. The programme is designed to give students both theoretical foundations and applied skills needed for modern plant and animal breeding.
Core modules emphasize quantitative and population genetics, breeding schemes and programme design, and statistical genetics including experimental design and breeding informatics. Molecular and biotechnological approaches in plant and animal breeding are taught alongside selection theory and optimisation methods, so graduates learn to plan, analyse and optimise breeding programmes using genomic, statistical and computational tools. Practical elements and internships reinforce the ability to carry out applied research in industry or public research institutes.
Elective options let students tailor their profile toward areas such as breeding informatics, legal and regulatory aspects of breeding, poultry genetics, forest biotechnology, and the management of genetic resources. The 30‑ECTS thesis plus defence demonstrates capacity for independent research and prepares students for careers in breeding companies, biotechnology firms, research institutes, or regulatory and conservation roles. Full curriculum details are available as a downloadable PDF.
Requirements — at a glance
Applicants must hold a completed undergraduate degree (BSc) of at least six semesters in duration in agricultural sciences, biology or a closely related field. A final result that is above average — preferably classified as a good grade — is expected.
This means the programme you finished should typically correspond to a minimum three-year bachelor’s course and your overall academic performance should be strong. International applicants should check that their prior degree matches the listed subject areas and meets the duration requirement.
Winter Semester (International)
15 February 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
1 June 2026
Graduates are prepared for roles in both academia and industry, including positions in breeding companies (plant, animal, forestry), public research institutes, seed and livestock enterprises, and national authorities. Typical activities include quantitative and molecular genetics research, breeding programme design, breeding informatics, and applied biotechnology.