Biotechnologie (weiterführend)

This degree (Studium) 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, students prepare for and follow up on courses, complete assignments, and potentially participate in online courses.

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

Degree (Studium) costs include enrollment and administration fees, as well as semester contributions (e.g., for student services, student union, semester ticket). Tuition fees may apply for 'long-term students,' for a second degree (Studium), or after consuming 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 be required. Information on funding opportunities can be found at the German National Association for Student Affairs (Deutsches Studierendenwerk) and the Federal Education Assistance Act (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz - BAföG).

Compulsory modules include Biodata Processing, Biodata Visualization, Bioprocess Engineering, Genomic Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering and Gene Law, Industrial Cell Culture Technology, Interaction of Organisms, Molecular Biotechnology, Nanobiotechnology, Synthetic Biology, and Environmental Metagenomics. Elective modules may cover topics such as Biomedicine, Industrial Biotechnology, Molecular and Cellular Biophysics, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, and Environmental Chemistry. Practical study content varies by university and may include internships, practical modules, practical semesters (e.g., in research institutes), semesters abroad, and excursions.

Universities may conduct aptitude tests or selection interviews as part of the admission process.

Students should be prepared for the following conditions and requirements: Attending lectures and seminars in the university's lecture halls and seminar rooms during the semester; potentially participating in online courses from home. Conducting practical exercises, such as experiments on biochemical reactions in the lab. Independent work, including preparing for and reviewing courses, researching in libraries, preparing presentations, and completing assignments (even during lecture-free periods). Deepening skills in scientific work. Independently planning the degree (Studium), 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, possibly abroad) and preparing for career entry.

Students can complete parts of their studies abroad. For example, there is a binational Master's degree program in 'Bio- and Chemical Engineering' in France. This program is offered by Technische Universität Braunschweig and Université de Technologie Compiègne, France, leading to a Master of Science (M.Sc.) and Diplôme d'Ingénieur. Further information can be found on the Technische Universität Braunschweig website.

The following subjects can be alternatives for the advanced (weiterführend) study field of Biotechnology: In the field of Biology: Biology (advanced), Biosciences, Life Sciences (advanced), Biochemistry (advanced), Chemical Biology (advanced), Microbiology (advanced). Common aspects include conducting measurements, analyses, and laboratory tests, setting up experimental apparatuses, and documenting results. In the field of work preparation: Food Technology (advanced), Pharmaceutical Technology (advanced), Production Engineering (advanced), Process Engineering (advanced). Common aspects include conducting measurements, analyses, and laboratory tests, and developing technical systems or components or planning their use.

Universities typically require the following undergraduate (grundständig) degrees for admission: Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Biology, Biophysics, Biosciences, Life Sciences, Biomechanics.

Additional and key qualifications facilitate a successful career start. Examples include time management and presentation techniques. Elective and compulsory modules, such as Industrial Biotechnology, can also provide additional qualifications. Internships, for example in research institutes, specifically prepare students 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). For universities in Germany, the Hochschulkompass's university search can be used.

This advanced (weiterführend) field of study deepens knowledge gained from an undergraduate (grundständig) degree and, if applicable, professional experience. Students usually specialize in specific topics, such as Bioanalytics. Additionally, there are Master's degree programs that cover a broad spectrum of biotechnology. This study leads to a second university degree.

Examples: Agrobiotechnology (Master), Biotechnology (Master), Bio- and Chemical Engineering (Master), Bioprocess Engineering (Master), Chemistry and Biotechnology (Master), Genomic Biotechnology (Master), Insect Biotechnology and Bioresources (Master), Medical Biotechnology (Master), Plant Biotechnology (Master), Pharmaceutical and Industrial Biotechnology (Master).

For Master's graduates in biotechnology, various fields of activity are available in the private sector, such as quality assurance, quality management, 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.

Since the 1980s: Introduction of independent Studium (degree) programs for biotechnology or bioengineering. Since the 1990s: Expansion of Studium content to include newly developed genetic engineering methods and application possibilities, for example, in plant breeding and medicine. 1999: Beginning of the Bologna Process: Reform of the European higher education landscape with goals including: Creation of a unified European higher education area, harmonization of Studium programs and degrees (introduction of Bachelor's and Master's Studium programs), and improvement of mobility for students and lecturers.

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

No Vergütung (remuneration) is received during the Studium (degree program). Compensation can be agreed upon for practical phases.

At the federal level, the Higher Education Framework Act (HRG) in the version of the announcement from 19.01.1999, last amended by Article 1 of the law from 15.11.2019, applies. Also, joint structural specifications of the Bundesländer (federal states) for the accreditation of Bachelor's and Master's Studium programs, and the Qualifications Framework for German Higher Education Degrees are in place. At the state level, Higher Education Acts in conjunction with administrative regulations, e.g., on the accreditation of Studium programs, and qualification or higher education access regulations apply. At the university level, the university's statutes and the study and examination regulations for the Studium programs in the respective field of study are applicable.

The prerequisite for the Studium (degree program) is a first professionally qualifying university degree; usually, an undergraduate Studium in biotechnology 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. Proof of English language skills may be required.