Biomedizin, Molekulare Medizin (weiterführend)

The Studium (university studies) takes 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 involves preparing for and reviewing courses, completing assignments, and possibly participating in online courses.

The standard duration of the Studium (university studies) is 2-4 semesters.

Studium (university studies) costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for the Studierendenwerk, student union, semester ticket). Tuition fees may apply for 'long-term students,' a second Studium (university studies), or after exhausting a set amount of study credits. Expenses for learning materials and study needs, such as specialized literature and excursions, are also incurred. Contributions for student health insurance are typically required when exceeding the age of 25 or certain income limits. Information on funding opportunities can be found at the German National Association for Student Affairs (Deutsches Studierendenwerk) – Funding Opportunities, and the Federal Law on Individual Promotion of Education (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz - BAföG).

The Studium (university studies) content consists of modules, including Bioinformatics, Epidemiology, Genetically Caused Diseases and Epigenetics, Genomic Data Analysis, Hormones, Stress and Memory, Human Genetics, Immunology, Model Organisms, Molecular Microbiology, Molecular Oncology, Neurosciences, Pharmacology/Toxicology, Physiology/Pathophysiology, Stem Cell Biology, and Virology. Practical Studium (university studies) content varies by university but may include internships, practical modules, practical semesters (e.g., in research institutes), or semesters abroad.

Students should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: Attending lectures and seminars in university lecture halls and seminar rooms during the semester; possibly participating in online courses from home. Conducting practical exercises, such as microbiology experiments in laboratories. Independent work includes preparing for and reviewing courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (even during lecture-free periods). Deepening skills in scientific research. Independently planning the Studium (university studies), adhering to specified study periods, and submitting study and examination achievements on time (self-discipline and organizational talent are required). Potentially completing internships (e.g., in research institutes) to prepare for a career.

Students can complete parts of their Studium (university studies) abroad. For example, in France, there is a binational Master's program in "Human and Molecular Biology." This program is offered by the University of Saarland and the University of Strasbourg, leading to a double degree as Master of Science (M.Sc.). Further information is available from the University of Saarland: Human and Molecular Biology international.

The following study fields can be alternatives for Biomedicine, Molecular Medicine (advanced): In the field of Biology; Biology (advanced), Biosciences, Life Sciences (advanced), Biochemistry (advanced), Chemical Biology (advanced), Microbiology (advanced), Molecular Science (advanced). Common aspects include setting up experimental apparatuses, conducting experiments, documenting results, and performing biological measurements, analyses, and laboratory examinations. In the field of Medicine; Human Medicine (advanced), Pharmacy (advanced), Toxicology (advanced) can be alternatives. Their commonality is acquiring knowledge in areas such as medicine, anatomy or biochemistry, micro and molecular biology, toxicology, and physiology.

Universities typically require the following undergraduate (grundständig) degrees for admission: Biomedicine, Molecular Medicine (undergraduate), Biochemistry (undergraduate), Biology (undergraduate), Biosciences, Life Sciences (undergraduate), Molecular Science (undergraduate).

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career start. For example, foreign languages, presentation techniques, and negotiation techniques can be considered. Internships, for instance in research institutes, specifically prepare for professional life. Offers for acquiring additional and key qualifications can be found at the Career Centers of universities. For universities in Germany, the Hochschulkompass's university search can be consulted.

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

Examples: Biomedicine (Master), Biomedical Management and Marketing (Master), Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience (Master), Genetics and Biology of Aging and Regeneration (Master), Human Biology (Principles of Health and Disease) (Master), Medical Immunosciences and Infection (Master), Medical Sciences (Cardiovascular Research) (Master), Molecular Medicine (Master), Radiation Biology (Master), Stem Cell Medicine (Master).

For Master's graduates in Biomedicine, Molecular Medicine, 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 an academic career at a university usually need to pursue a doctorate (promovieren). A doctorate may also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector and research.

In the 20th century, with the development of DNA analysis methods and the use of cell biological procedures to research diseases or develop therapies, Biomedicine and Molecular Medicine became an independent discipline. In 1999, the first Molecular Medicine Studium (postgraduate study) was established at the University of Erlangen-Nürnberg. The Bologna Process, which began in the same year, aimed to create a unified European higher education area, harmonize Studium (study programs) and degrees (Bachelor and Master), and improve the mobility of students and lecturers.

The degree awarded upon completion of this Studium (postgraduate study) is Master of Science (M.Sc.).

During the Studium (postgraduate study), no remuneration is typically received. However, compensation can be agreed upon for practical phases.

Legal regulations for the Studium (postgraduate study) are determined at the federal level by the Higher Education Framework Act (Hochschulrahmengesetz - HRG) and by inter-state structural guidelines for the accreditation of Bachelor and Master Studium (study programs). Additionally, a Qualifications Framework for German higher education degrees exists. At the state (Bundesland) level, there are higher education laws, accreditation regulations, and qualification/university admission regulations. At the university level, the university's statutes and the study and examination regulations for the respective Studium (study program) apply.

A prerequisite for this Studium (postgraduate study) is a first professionally qualifying university degree; usually, an undergraduate Studium (study program) in Biomedicine or Molecular Medicine is required. Depending on the university, an internal university selection process takes place. Selection criteria include, for example, performance in the first professionally qualifying Studium (study program). Proof of English language skills may be required. Proof of measles protection is necessary for practical phases in communal and medical facilities. Furthermore, institutions may require additional vaccinations (e.g., against Hepatitis A and B) or corresponding immunity certificates.