Research Master's programme BioMed (M.Sc.)

The research Master's programme in BioMed is jointly offered by the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Technology, the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science. The following departments are involved in the programme:

• Biosciences
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Pharmaceutical Science
• Physics
• the departments from the Faculty of Medicine

Through both the theoretical modules and experimental modules involving lab work, you will acquire fundamental knowledge of the subjects, use modern research methods and dive deep into scientific research, all while learning how to implement good academic and research practices.

Over the course of the year, you will gain a broad foundation of knowledge in natural sciences and in related life science fields. At the same time, you will have the opportunity to further polish your profile in your chosen specialist area. The self-directed learning and independent research required by the programme promote a sense of responsibility.

The degree programme encompasses 60 ECTS credits. Of these, at least 52 credits shall be from graded assignments. As a rule, students are required to earn 30 credits per semester. The language of instruction and examination is English.

The programme is composed of 52 ECTS credits in mandatory modules and 8 ECTS credits in mandatory elective modules.

Mandatory modules (52 ECTS credits)

• Research module: research seminar, guidance on your scientific research, research project (22 ECTS credits)
• Master's thesis (30 ECTS credits)

Mandatory elective modules in BioMed (5 ECTS credits)

Examples of possible mandatory elective modules:

• Experimental Biophysics
• Data Science in Medicine
• Single Cell Bioinformatics for BioMed

Other modules from areas such as biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, pharmacy, physics and from the Faculty of Medicine can also be chosen. To find out what modules can be selected, get in touch with the programme adviser.

Foreign language mandatory elective (3 ECTS credits)

• German or another foreign language

For further details, please refer to the module catalogue.

The BioMed Master's programme will prepare you for a challenging research career in the biomedical field, whether in Germany or internationally. The degree programme provides you a deeper understanding of the field and teaches you the skills and methods needed to undertake independent scientific work, develop innovative ideas, critically appraise research findings and act responsibly, thoroughly preparing you for a future career in research. Throughout the programme, you will develop interdisciplinary skills and hone your ability to synthesize information, write and present in a structured manner, meaning you will also be well suited to careers in other fields such as industrial research and development.

Admission requirements

• Bachelor's degree with at least 240 ECTS points or an equivalent degree with a final grade of at least 2,.0. The Bachelor's degree programme must have at least 60  ECTS credits from biology, bioinformatics, biophysics, biotechnology, chemistry, computer science, pharmacy, physics or the Bachelor Plus MINT programme.
• At least 2 ECTS points each from at least four of the following subjects: biology, bioinformatics, biophysics, biotechnology, chemistry, pharmacy, physics or the Bachelor Plus MINT programme.
• Excellent command of English (at least CEFR level B2).
• At least 80 points in the subject-specific aptitude assessment (see subject-specific regulations, section 5). Sign up for the assessment by 15 October at the latest by emailing carsten.baltes(at)uni-saarland.de

For further details, please refer to the subject-specific regulations.

Information on English proficiency requirements

English proficiency at or above B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Language (CEFR) is required. The following English certificates are accepted. Other certificates or proof of language proficiency can only be accepted once they have been approved by the examination committee.

• Cambridge Certificate, First Certificate in English (FCE) or higher
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS), at least 5 points
• London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), English for Business (EFB) level 3 or above
• The European Language Certificates (TELC), B2 or above
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), at least 72 points
• Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC), at least 400 points in listening comprehension and 385 points in reading comprehension

Students enrolled at Saarland University can also use the UNIcert II-Certificate to demonstrate their language proficiency.

How to apply

Beginning the programme in summer semester is recommended, though it is possible to begin in either winter or summer semester. The application deadline is typically 15 December to begin in summer semester and 15 June to begin in winter semester.

Applications for admission are submitted online via Saarland University's student information management (SIM) portals. If you have any questions about using the SIM portals, please refer to our SIM Saarland help pages.

Regulations

• Study regulations
• Examination regulations
• Subject-specific regulations

Study plan and more information

• Module catalogue
• Study plan