Biomathematik (weiterführend)

The program takes place at universities. Learning locations at the university include lecture halls, seminar and exercise rooms, libraries, and laboratories. Additionally, work is done at home (e.g., preparing for and reviewing courses, completing assignments; possibly participating in online courses).

The standard duration of study is 2-4 semesters.

Study costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for the Studierendenwerk (student services organization), student body, semester ticket). Where applicable, tuition fees may apply for 'long-term students,' those pursuing 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 thresholds) may also apply. Information on funding opportunities can be found at the Deutsches Studierendenwerk. The Federal Law on Individual Promotion of Education (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz - BAföG) is another funding option.

Compulsory modules include biophysical chemistry, biosignal analysis, human genetics, clinical epidemiology, mathematical methods of image processing, neuroinformatics, signal processing, statistical pattern recognition, stochastic processes and modeling, and test and estimation theory. Elective modules may include algorithm design, computer vision, genetic epidemiology, artificial intelligence, and matrix algebra. Practical study content varies by university but may include internships, practical modules, or practical semesters (e.g., in pharmaceutical companies in software development).

One should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: Lectures and seminars are attended in person in the university's lecture halls and seminar rooms during the semester; online courses may be attended from home if applicable. Practical exercises involve, for example, conducting chemical analyses in the laboratory. Independent work includes preparing for and reviewing courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (also during the lecture-free period). Scientific research aims to deepen skills in scientific work. Organization and planning require self-responsible planning of studies, adherence to given study periods, and timely completion of study and examination achievements (self-discipline and organizational talent are required). Career preparation involves completing internships if necessary and preparing for entry into the profession.

The following study programs can be alternatives for Biomathematics (advanced): In the field of Mathematics and Statistics: Biometry, Biostatistics (advanced), Statistics (advanced), Technomathematics (advanced), Mathematics (advanced). The commonality is processing and evaluating data with mathematical methods. In the field of Hardware and Software Development: Bioinformatics (advanced), Medical Informatics (advanced), Computer-aided Natural Science, Computational Science (advanced). The commonalities are developing algorithms as a basis for software creation and taking on programming tasks.

Universities typically require degrees such as Biomathematics (undergraduate), Mathematics (undergraduate), Applied Natural Sciences (undergraduate), or Engineering Sciences (undergraduate).

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career entry. Topics such as business administration, self-management, and rhetoric are relevant. Elective modules like Artificial Intelligence can also provide additional qualifications. Internships 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) and through the Hochschulkompass university search engine for universities in Germany.

This advanced (weiterführend) field of study deepens knowledge from the undergraduate (grundständig) study program and, if applicable, professional experience. The study leads to a second university degree. Biomathematics is also available as a part-time (Teilzeitstudiengang) program.

Examples include Biomathematics (Master) and Mathematics in Medicine and Life Sciences (Master).

For Master's graduates in Biomathematics, various fields of activity are available in the private sector, such as data collection, analysis, software development, or process and product development. Those aiming for a scientific career at a university usually need to pursue a doctorate (promovieren). A doctorate can also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector and research.

Around 1900: Establishment of biology as a scientific discipline. Around 1925: Emergence of biomathematics from theoretical biology, aiming to clarify biological questions with mathematical methods and models. Around 1950: Founding of the world's first biomathematics degree program in Chicago (USA). Since 1998: Establishment as an independent, interdisciplinary degree program in Greifswald. 1999: Beginning of the Bologna Process: Reform of the European higher education landscape with goals including the creation of a unified European higher education area, harmonization of study programs and degrees (introduction of Bachelor's and Master's programs), and improvement of student and lecturer mobility.

Upon graduation, you will receive a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree.

No remuneration is provided during the Studium (university studies). However, compensation can be agreed upon for practical phases or internships.

Legal regulations for the Studium (university studies) are determined at the federal level by the Higher Education Framework Act (HRG) and at the state level by Higher Education Acts. There are also joint structural guidelines among the Bundesländer (federal states) for the accreditation of Bachelor's and Master's programs. The qualifications framework for German higher education degrees is also part of these regulations. At the university level, the university's statutes, along with the study and examination regulations for the respective fields of study, apply.

A prerequisite for the Studium (university studies) is a first professionally qualifying university degree; usually, an undergraduate degree in Biomathematics is required. Depending on the university, an internal selection process may take place. Selection criteria often include academic performance in the first professionally qualifying degree. Proof of English language proficiency may also be required.