Bio- and Pharmaceutical Analysis

The course of studies provides high-level multinational, interdisciplinary and research-oriented education and training for candidates who wish to develop skills and knowledge in this area of study. The study programme leads to advanced expertise in the field of analytical sciences.
The Master of Bio- and Pharmaceutical Analysis is a consecutive programme to the International Bachelor of Applied Chemistry (eight semesters, 240 ECTS Credit Points), also offered by Fresenius University of Applied Sciences (HSF). HSF wishes to encourage external applicants with a relevant background in chemistry and similar level of credit points to apply.

The Master's programme consists of five modules. Modules One, Two and Three are face-to-face lectures covering the following topics: analysis of proteins and proteomics, nucleic acids, polysaccharides and lipids. The methods include 3D-structure elucidation of biomolecules, immunoassay, mass-spectrometry and NMR. Analytical methods are critically compared. Major legal requirements concerning the development, registration, production, trade and examination of pharmaceuticals are imparted as well as the analysis of the product environment, packaging materials, containers, devices, raw materials and active ingredients. Advanced analytical approaches in clinical and forensic analysis are presented.
All lectures are accompanied by laboratory classes (Module Four) with real-life application examples. Students should be capable of evaluating, selecting and applying appropriate methods to analytical problems. For this purpose, modern instrumental analytical equipment, e.g. LC-MS/MS, MALDI-ToF-MS or DNA sequencer are applied to various matrices and types of samples.
As well as in-house training, excursions to major companies in the field of bioanalysis and pharmaceutical analysis are made, which are accompanied by small workshops.
During the second semester, when the Master's thesis is undertaken, students apply the acquired knowledge in complex and multidisciplinary contexts.

Educational organisation

This MSc programme is designed using a modular approach. In brief, the programme consists of 60 ECTS credits and includes modules offering essential qualifications in the field of analytical sciences in bio- and pharmaceutical analysis, one compulsory "applied research lab" including practical work experience in the industry, and one compulsory research project culminating in a thesis.

Stage One: Postgraduate Modules in Bio- and Pharmaceutical Analysis
The first stage consists of 30 ECTS credits and includes compulsory modules. This stage can be completed on a full-time (one semester) or part-time (two semesters) basis.
Stage Two: Master's degree in Bio- and Pharmaceutical Analysis
The second stage consists of the Master's thesis (one semester) worth 30 ECTS.

If your Bachelor's degree comprises less than 240 ECTS, any missing competencies can be obtained in a customised link programme (bridge course) (one to two additional semesters). For further details, please check http://www.hs-fresenius.de/en/study/school-of-chemistry-biology-pharmacy/study-paths/bio-and-pharmaceutical-analysis-msc/idstein.

Study abroad unit(s)

Although there are no compulsory units abroad, participants are encouraged to work and do research internationally as part of their module "applied research lab" and the research project leading to a thesis.

Internships

A placement period is part of the programme (see above).

Forms of assessment

Modules One to Three: written examinations
Module Four: participation in lab sessions/seminars, written documentation and interpretation of results of lab work, oral presentation, participation in excursions
Master's thesis

Course objectives

This Master's programme provides a research-oriented, scientific degree which qualifies students for a career in the chemical or pharmaceutical industry as well as at a chemical research institute or government agency. Students will be able to evaluate, select, and apply appropriate methods to analytical problems, and to justify their choices. Students become familiar with modern instrumental analytical equipment and advanced analytical techniques, for instance linear ion trap ESI-MS/MS, MALDI-ToF-MS, Q-ToF, or DNA sequencer. In the experimental work on which the written Master's thesis is based, students will apply the acquired knowledge in complex and multidisciplinary contexts.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills: TOEFL iBT 85 points, Cambridge Advanced Certificate (grade C), IELTS test 6.0, or ESP:C online course (see http://www.hs-fresenius.de/en/study/school-of-chemistry-biology-pharmacy/study-paths/bio-and-pharmaceutical-analysis-msc/idstein/full-time-master)

Academic requirements

A Bachelor's degree or comparable qualification from a university or university of applied sciences within the scope of the Framework Act for Higher Education (Hochschulrahmengesetz) is required. The aforementioned degree must carry the equivalent of 240 ECTS credit points and a grading of 2.4 (B-) or better and/or a standard period of study of at least four years (see: Where to apply).
Missing competencies can be obtained through a specially designed bridging course offered at Fresenius University of Applied Sciences.

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Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Enrolment fees

• Administration charges for admission procedures: 650 EUR (non-EU citizens)
• Students' Union fees/semester ticket: 130 EUR per semester (please check homepage). The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the Rhine-Main region.

Costs of living

General estimates for minimum monthly living expenses range from 650 to 700 EUR (source: DAAD).

Job opportunities

In general, EU citizens are not subject to any limitations for employment in Germany and are treated legally as German citizens. Exceptions to this rule are students from the new entries to the EU (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Croatia), who need a work permit for employment and should consult their local German Embassy for detailed information.
Non-EU nationals are subject to employment regulations according to the individual country and should also consult their local German Embassy for detailed information.

Arrival support

An orientation programme for students of the MSc programme will be held prior to the start of the academic semester. During the orientation sessions, students will be provided with detailed practical information on studying and student life at Fresenius University of Applied Sciences. Furthermore, they will have the opportunity to meet key members of staff. There will also be social events that will enable students to meet other students.

Services and support for international students

Each student will receive a special service package and individual assistance from the MSc Programme Office.
In addition, a buddy programme is in place at Fresenius University of Applied Sciences which is designed to help new international students meet other students quickly and easily at the beginning of the programme.

Accommodation

Fresenius University of Applied Sciences offers support to students seeking accommodation. There is a platform on the website which announces private accommodation vacancies. The Central Administration Office also distributes current lists of available flats and contacts new providers of accommodation.