Biologie (weiterführend)

The studies take place at universities and universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen). Learning locations at the university include lecture halls, seminar and exercise rooms, libraries, and laboratories. At home, learning activities include preparing for and reviewing courses, completing assignments, and potentially participating in online courses.

The standard duration of studies is 2-4 semesters.

Study costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for the student union (Studierendenwerk), student body, semester ticket). If applicable, tuition fees may apply for 'long-term students,' for a second degree, or after exhausting a set study credit. Expenses for learning materials and study needs, such as specialized literature and excursions, are also incurred. Contributions for student health insurance (typically when exceeding the age limit of 25 or certain income limits) may also apply. Information on funding opportunities can be found from the German Student Union (Deutsches Studierendenwerk) and the Federal Education Assistance Act (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz - BAföG).

Modules include, for example: plant biochemistry, digital methods of organismic structural analysis, evolutionary biotechnology, hormones and stress, immunology, methods of ecosystem analysis, microbial biotechnology, molecular enzyme technology, molecular parasitology, molecular virology and structural biology, ecology of terrestrial habitats, plant-environment interactions (genes, proteins, secondary metabolites), proteins (structure, dynamics and function), animal-plant interactions, and behavioral ecology. Practical study content may include internships (e.g., in research laboratories) and semesters abroad.

One should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: Attending lectures and seminars during the semester in university lecture halls and seminar rooms; potentially participating in online courses from home. Practical exercises involve conducting investigations in microbiology, for example, in a laboratory. Independent work includes preparing for and reviewing courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (also during the lecture-free period). Deepening skills in scientific work is essential. Organizing and planning studies independently, adhering to given study periods, and submitting study and examination achievements on time (self-discipline and organizational talent required) are important. Career preparation may involve completing internships (e.g., in research laboratories, potentially abroad).

Students can complete parts of their studies abroad. For example, there is an international Master's program 'Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution' in the Netherlands/France. This program is offered by Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, and Université de Rennes 1, leading to a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree, with the possibility of a double degree. Further information is available from Georg-August-Universität Göttingen.

The following study programs can be alternatives for the Biologie (weiterführend) (Biology (advanced)) study program: Biochemistry (advanced), Bionics (advanced), Biotechnology (advanced), Biosciences, Life Sciences (advanced), Chemical Biology (advanced), Marine Biology (advanced), Microbiology (advanced). Common aspects include acquiring knowledge about natural and environmental interrelationships, and collecting, processing, and analyzing data.

Universities typically require degrees such as Biology (undergraduate), Applied Natural Sciences (undergraduate), or Biosciences, Life Sciences (undergraduate).

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career entry. For example, topics such as radiation protection, genetic engineering, communication, and scientific writing are relevant. Internships, for instance in research laboratories, specifically prepare for professional life. Opportunities to acquire additional and key qualifications can be found at the Career Centers of universities (see contact details of the respective university): Universities in Germany - Hochschulkompass University Search.

This advanced study program deepens knowledge from the undergraduate study program and, if applicable, professional experience. Students usually specialize in specific topics, such as botany, developmental biology, or evolutionary biology. Additionally, there are master's programs that cover a broad spectrum of biology. This study leads to a second university degree. Biology is also available as a part-time and teaching degree program.

Examples: Biodiversity and Ecology (Master), Biological Resources (Master), Biology (Master), Biology (Microbial and Plant Biotechnology) (Master), Biology and Society (Master), Ecology, Evolution and Environment (Master), Integrative Zoology (Master), Molecular and Cellular Biology (Master), Synthetic Biology (Master), Technical Biology (Master).

For master's graduates in Biology, various fields of activity are available in the private sector, such as laboratory analysis, pharmaceutical consulting, pharmaceutical sales, or process and product development. Those aiming for a scientific career at a university usually need to pursue a doctorate. A doctorate may also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector and research.

In the 19th century, Biology established itself as a scientific discipline. The 20th century saw further development of the field through technical innovations like the electron microscope and advancements in genetics and evolutionary theory. In 1999, the Bologna Process began, reforming the European higher education landscape with goals such as creating a unified European higher education area, harmonizing study programs and degrees (introducing Bachelor and Master programs), and improving the mobility of students and faculty.

Degree Awarded: Master of Science (M.Sc.)

No remuneration is received during studies. However, compensation can be agreed upon for practical phases (Praxisphasen).

At the federal level, the Higher Education Framework Act (Hochschulrahmengesetz - HRG) and joint structural guidelines from the federal states (Bundesland) for the accreditation of Bachelor and Master programs are in place. There is also a qualifications framework for German higher education degrees. At the state (Landesebene) level, higher education laws in conjunction with administrative regulations (e.g., on program accreditation) and qualification or university admission ordinances apply. At the university (Hochschulebene) level, the university's statutes and the study and examination regulations for the respective study programs are relevant.

The prerequisite for this program is a first professionally qualifying university degree; typically, an undergraduate degree (grundständiges Studium) in Biology is required. Depending on the university (Hochschule), an internal selection process takes place. Selection criteria may include performance in the first professionally qualifying degree. Proof of English language skills may be required.