Biochemistry - Master

The Master's degree programme is admission-restricted and subjected to the admission procedures. We will offer a total of at least 35 places to the highest scoring applicants per year (spring + fall selection). Typically the fall intake is larger than the spring one. We admit a minimum of 7 students in spring and 18 in fall. The total number depends on the quality of applications.

Selection criteria:

• 40 points (~60% of total) bachelor grade
• 20 points (~30%) written entrance examination
• 5 points (<10%) based on your CV

Application deadline for spring is 15 Jan. Application deadline for fall is 31 May.

Admission requirements

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Biochemistry
• Overall grade (CGPA) equivalent to or better than 2.8 German grading system
• English language proficiency: English test certificate or another proof of proficiency equivalent to level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR oder GER)

Please send the complete application documents via the university application portal.

Since the degree is completely in English, you will need very good written and spoken English. No formal certificate is required, if you are a native speaker, if your previous degree was taught in English or if your school-leaving exam gives evidence of a sufficient level of English. If the above does not apply, we accept any of the international English language certificates (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS). We do not require proof of German language skills.

It is a so-called "mono-master", i.e. the study is done in one scientific subject.

The 2-year degree in English will provide you with knowledge of the very latest developments in biochemical, molecular and cellular biology as well as with cutting edge laboratory and bioinformatics skills. The course is highly modular and adaptable to your personal preferences. Few elements of the degree are fixed and there is a wealth of options. You will be given the opportunity to work in several different labs to hone your skills and develop your preferences.

The master is organized by the Interfaculty Institute of Biochemistry (IFIB) which is a tight-knit community of a dozen research groups. Like the degree, the local labs cover a broad range of research topics from structural biochemistry to model organisms. On top of the in-house expertise, several excellent research institutions working in the fields of developmental biology, biocybernetics and neuroscience are located in the immediate vicinity. More details on the IFIB homepage.

What sets this program apart is its broad approach. It offers you an in-depth look at many aspects of molecular life science without early specialization, while allowing you to dig deeper in areas of your choice. Topics range from biochemical, structural, cellular and molecular biology to neuroscience, cell signalling, plant physiology as well as cancer biology.

Year 1 - introduction, modules, first labs
The 1st year kicks off with a joint lectures series by all the research group leaders of the institute. Departing from the basics you have acquired in your previous degree, this series takes you into the advanced topics of biochemistry and to the research frontier. In parallel, you will choose your first modules and your first lab placements. One of many possible arrangements is shown on the right.
In the 2nd semester, you will conclude the lectures on advanced topics and start a course on current topics, which includes a lecture series by guest speakers from outside the institute and abroad presenting their latest discoveries. In addition, you will select a 3rd module and a 2nd lab placement.

Year 2 - modules, labs & master project
As you enter the 2nd year, the elements of the program will become longer and more in-depth culminating in the master thesis at the end of the degree. You may decide to do one or more of the research placements outside the institute or abroad. We will support you with national and international placement using our contacts. At the end of the last semester, you will write up the data acquired during your thesis and present the results to the faculty.
During the entire degree you will be able to acquire transferable skills ranging from numerical proficiency, IT, self-management and communication to interpersonal skills. The IFIB faculty will support you in your future professional decision following your master in Tübingen and hope that you will actively join our alumni network.

We encourage international research rotations. Students usually organise these themselves and are supported by us. See also the website Internationality of the Tübingen Master of Biochemistry.

Optional time abroad
You may choose to spend some time abroad as part of any study program. You should start planning it 12 to 18 months before your departure. 
Here you will find general information and advice on studying abroad. In addition, some departments have their own subject-specific services providing information on studying abroad.

In the winter term 2023/2024 about 460 students are studying at the Department of Biochemistry:

You can find an overview of courses and modules here.

You can find a formal description of the degree here.

Most students go on to do a PhD in a competitive international institution after completing their Masters in Tübingen. Long-term employment perspectives are in the industry as well as in research.

Advice and internships
The University’s Career Service assists with careers orientation and getting started in your profession. Jobs and internships can be found in the Praxisportal.

Please find information regarding a PhD in biochemistry here. For further information see the website Faculty of Science - Doctoral Studies.

Information about the Alumni of Tübingen.