This Master's programme is designed to give you a highly flexible, research-focused education in biology. You choose advanced courses from a broad catalogue to build either a customised study plan (general track: Biological Sciences) or follow one of three pre-designed priority tracks that bundle complementary advanced modules. Course selection is based on your interests, academic background and career goals, so you can shape a programme that best fits your ambitions.
The three priority tracks provide focused training:
Teaching is practical and small-group oriented to foster independent research skills. Advanced courses are limited to around 15 students and emphasise contemporary research topics and methodological approaches. All instruction is in English. The curriculum includes a mandatory external internship of at least two months (research institute or industry), and nominated students may be offered a fast-track route to PhD qualification.
Key programme requirements and features
This two-year (regularly four semesters; maximum eight semesters) Master’s program comprises 120 ECTS and culminates in a research-based Master’s thesis. The curriculum is built to deepen advanced knowledge in molecular, ecological and computational areas of biology while offering flexibility to tailor the course of study through elective and preference modules, internships or credits earned abroad.
Students complete a combination of large advanced courses, smaller elective blocks and a dedicated thesis-preparation course that supports the research project. Practical and methodological training is emphasised through laboratory- and field-oriented modules, applied bioinformatics, novel in vitro methods, and options for an external internship or study abroad credit. The programme also includes an oral master’s examination based on colloquia from two advanced courses.
Learning outcomes focus on developing independent research skills, experimental design and data analysis, and the ability to integrate molecular, organismal and ecological perspectives. Graduates will be prepared for doctoral research or for specialist roles in academia, industry and environmental or health sectors, with competencies in advanced laboratory techniques, computational biology, and critical interpretation of primary research.
Candidates must document completion of at least a three-year study programme in biology (or a closely related discipline) at a state or officially recognised institution of higher education or at a Berufsakademie, with a minimum degree of Bachelor of Science or an equivalent qualification. This academic credential is the basic eligibility requirement for the Master’s programme.
If your higher education degree was awarded in a country that is not part of the Bologna Process, you are required to take the GRE General Test and meet the specified score threshold. International applicants should check whether their country participates in the Bologna Process and, if in doubt, contact the programme’s admissions office to confirm how their degree will be assessed for equivalence.
Winter Semester (International)
15 June 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 June 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
The programme equips you for further academic research and provides a solid foundation for PhD study, particularly through ties with the Konstanz Research School Chemical Biology and the IMPRS in Quantitative Behaviour, Ecology & Evolution. Students gain the methodological skills, subject‑specific knowledge and independent research experience needed to apply for competitive doctoral programmes.
Beyond academia, graduates are prepared for scientific roles in industry (e.g., biotechnology, pharmaceuticals), research institutions, environmental and conservation organisations, and other science‑based sectors where advanced analytical, laboratory and problem‑solving skills are required.