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New Master of Science programmes as of winter term 2023/2024

Biological Master of Science Degree Programmes of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences of the University of Cologne

The previous Master of Science in Biological Sciences programme will be replaced by five specialised Master programmes as of winter term 2023/2024.

All programmes are research-oriented and taught as two-years full-time study programmes in English. Here, students acquire an excellent understanding of modern biological research practice both in the broad biological science context and in particular in the specialised field.

Master's Degree (M. Sc.) in Biological Sciences of The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences of the University of Cologne

The Master of Science in Biological Sciencesprogram is research-oriented and taught in English. The successful completion of the two years program will lead to the award of the Masters of Science (MSc) degree. With the program students will acquire a strong background in basic biological science and in modern biological research practice, which will fit them well for many careers in both academic and applied environments. The program has been launched in winter term 2005/2006.

Structure of the program

In the first year of the program students choose 4 subject modules on scientific topics of their preference (12 CP each, 15% each of overall grade). In addition, students conduct one elective module (12 CP) whose content is chosen to broaden and enrich the individual study program.
The second year of the program is dedicated to research. First 2 project modules (12 CP each) are conducted in research groups of choice. The program is completed by a 6 month research project thatwill be written up in a Master’s thesis and presented in a Colloquium (36 CP, 40% of overall grade).


Specialisations and scientific topics as of winter term 2020/2021

Structure of the M.Sc. Biological Sciences programme

As of winter term 2021/22

For students who intend to study abroad the Elective and Project Modules are the most suitable, but details need to be arranged with a student adviser.

Please Note

For students who intend to study abroad the Elective and Project Modules are the most suitable, but details need to be arranged with a student adviser.


Scientific topics and specialisations until summer term 2020

  • Modules will be offered in seven research areas:
  • (B) Biochemistry, Biotechnology and Biophysics
  • (C) Computational Biology
  • (D) Developmental Biology
  • (E) Ecology and Evolution
  • (G) Genetics and Cell Biology
  • (N) Neurobiology
  • (P) Molecular Plant Sciences

A research area may be indicated as specialisation in the Masters of Science in Biological Sciences certificate, for students who have conducted at least 4 of 7 modules (including subject, elective, and project modules) as well as the Master’s Thesis in one research area.