M.Sc. Molecular Medicine

This site provides general information about the M.Sc. Molecular Medicine degree programme, including details on the following topics:

How do I apply?

Prospective students

I just enrolled in the programme – what do I need to know?

Starting your studies

I am currently studying Molecular Medicine – what do I need to know?

Enrolled students

What happens after graduation?

PhD programmes in Freiburg

Career prospects

Overview

Degree	Master of Science (M.Sc.)
Credit Points	60 ECTS
Type of study	Postgraduate studies
Form of study	Full-time
Standard period of study	2 semesters
Start of programme	Winter semester only
Application period	15 April – 15 July
Restricted admission	Yes (see ‘Prospective students’ for details)
Study places	20 per year
Language	English
Course of study	Course catalogue

Profile: M.Sc. Molecular Medicine in Freiburg (60 ECTS credits)

The consecutive Master’s programme builds on the content covered in the Bachelor’s programme, providing an in-depth insight into the cutting-edge biomedical research conducted at the University of Freiburg. It is a joint programme of the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Biology.

The programme offers advanced training in biomedical research based on the research focus areas at the faculties involved in the programme, namely genetics and epigenetics, immunology and infectiology, molecular cell and tissue research, neuroscience, and oncology, as well as biological signalling studies. Students will complete two compulsory modules addressing the basics of independent research, such as legal and ethical aspects of working with laboratory animals and genetically modified organisms, and discussing recent topics of basic and applied biomedical clinical research. They also have the opportunity to specialise individually in the above-mentioned subject areas within the framework of four elective modules. These include courses on basic research (e.g. cellular quality control and signalling), disease-related research (e.g. medical metabolomics and oncogenic signalling) and clinical research (e.g. experimental cardiovascular research and molecular pathology). Through these electives, students will extend their practical skillset and gain extensive experience of working in a scientific environment.

The programme aims to prepare students in particular for careers in biomedical research at universities, private and governmental institutions and pharmaceutical companies.

Special features of the M.Sc. Moleculare Medicine in Freiburg: Academic Fast-Track

As the programme is short, it is not recommended that students go abroad during the programme. International students are welcome, and the entire programme is taught in English.
The standard period of study is one academic year and comprises 60 ECTS credits. The curriculum is divided into two parts. The first part provides a general introduction to the field of molecular medicine and extends the knowledge of good scientific practice. It also gives students the opportunity to create an individual specialisation through three blocks of research electives and one block of biomedical electives. The second part comprises the research for the master’s thesis project and its defence.

This curriculum is designed to facilitate the transition to PhD studies, which can begin immediately after the master’s thesis defence.

Qualification objectives of the M.Sc. Molecular Medicine

The aim of the Molecular Medicine programme is to train researchers with the basic qualifications to work independently on their own research projects. Our graduates make decisions based on critical analysis, discussion and in-depth knowledge, acting conscientiously and with self-criticism. To this end, the programme provides ample opportunities to acquire advanced knowledge and hands-on experience in selected disciplines aligned to the life science research focus areas at the University of Freiburg, as well as offering insight into relevant legal and ethical issues.

Subject-related qualification objectives

Students are familiar with the latest research in the fields of molecular medicine, particularly in the specialized fields chosen for their elective modules
Students are familiar with the molecular and physiological processes that underlie pathological conditions in the human body
Students have in-depth knowledge of state-of-the-art laboratory methods in the biomedical sciences
Students are able to execute modern laboratory methods in the biomedical sciences independently
Students are able to apply statistical methods and models to analyse empirical data in order to describe molecular processes
Students are able to independently identify relevant research questions and the appropriate methods for addressing them, as well as their impact on research and society
Students have an excellent understanding of good scientific practice in study design, laboratory work, data management and publishing
Students are familiar with the legal and formal requirements of scientific research
Students are able to communicate and discuss scientific ideas orally and in writing

Interdisciplinary qualification objectives

Students can assess complex issues on the basis of critical discussion and consideration
Students can approach questions from different angles and transfer problems across disciplines
Students can integrate into multicultural and multidisciplinary teams
Students can provide and process feedback
Students can plan and coordinate projects

Prospects

After successfully graduating from the one-year M.Sc. Molecular Medicine programme, graduates are perfectly equipped for a career in the pharmaceutical industry or diagnostics. To continue on the academic track, students need to complete a PhD-programme.