Biotechnology
Become an expert in Biotechnology
Key data
- Degree
- Master of Science in Life Sciences
- Studying type
- Double-Degree with foreign University optional
- ECTS points
- 90
- Studying mode
- Full-time and part-time
- School days
- Monday to Friday
- Teaching language
- English
- Place
- Muttenz (Basel-Land)
- Stay abroad
- optional
- Application fee
- CHF 200
The deadline for applications for the autumn semester is 30 April of the relevant year and 30 November for the spring semester.
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Biotechnology – Career Opportunities
Vaccines, antibodies and viruses used for gene therapy are among the biotechnological products known as biopharmaceuticals. These complex products are prepared with biological systems and enable completely new ways of treating diseases. The Biotechnology specialisation encompasses research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of biopharmaceuticals, and offers graduates excellent job prospects in this fast-growing field in both academia and industry. Moreover, students acquire knowledge that can facilitate a future career in manufacturing and commercial functions based on biotechnological processes, as well as related fields such as automation, digitalization, data analysis and project management.
Biotechnology – Curriculum
This programme combines courses in advanced pharmaceutical products such as cell and gene therapies, continuous bioprocessing, process analytical technologies and automation to control biotechnological processes, as well as formulation, analytical techniques and regulatory requirements of biologics. Graduates of the programme are familiar with real-world scientific and engineering principles for practical applications, and have detailed knowledge of the cutting-edge science in the field of biological therapies.
Modules from related specialisations, in particular Analytical Chemistry, Bioanalytics, Applied Cell Biology and Pharma Technology complement the specific courses. This wide range of specialised and generic modules allows each student to create an individually tailored study programme.
Students may also take an extra semester at a foreign partner university, allowing them to gain an additional degree.
The MSc includes an eight month thesis, usually conducted at the research, development or manufacturing facility of one of our industrial partners, or internally at the FHNW. Alternatively, the thesis can be carried out abroad at any institution (private or public) that meets the FHNW’s scientific standards. The thesis forms the basis for successful employment in industry or in academia.
The combination of two semesters of study with the practical experience gained during the thesis qualify our alumni for stimulating and demanding positions in research and development or for doctoral studies.
Biotechnology – Entry Requirements
The MSc in Life Sciences – Biotechnology is especially suited for students with a BSc degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering or related fields.
Graduates with an excellent Bachelor's degree are admitted directly if they:
- hold a Bachelor's degree in a related technical field from a university of applied sciences with a mark of A, B or ≥ 5 or an equivalent mark (≥ good)
- or demonstrate an equivalent background (BSc) and practical experience
- and have excellent English skills.
Prospective students who meet most but not all of the entry requirements are invited to an interview.
