Biology

Do you want to learn about the complexity of biological systems ranging from single molecules to whole ecosystems? Or about subjects such as evolution, ecology, molecular evolution and biodiversity? The two-year Master of Science Biology programme at Wageningen University offers you tailor-made programmes fitting your personal interests. This will allow you to become a specialist in your chosen field. A choice out of nine specialisations will chart the course of your biology studies here. Biological issues are at the forefront of the technological advance of modern society and play a central role in global concerns about how people and the environment influence each other.

The MSc Biology Programme (MBI) is a two year programme, which comprises of 120 credits (ECTS). The programme consists of various courses, an internship and a master thesis which are carried out within one of the nine specialisations.

Design your tailor made study programme

Together with your study advisor you can design a tailor made study programme. Below you see which elements are part of a MSc Biology study programme:

Compulsory courses

The following compulsory courses must be successfully completed by all students taking part in the MBI program:

• Frontiers in Biology (6 ECTS): This course deals with the latest developments in biology and covers a wide range of themes. Highlights in modern biology will be addressed by studying recent articles and by keynote speakers who are active in various biological disciplines.
• Master biology thesis proposal (6 ECTS): The aim of this course is to design, plan, write, and present a detailed research proposal for a major thesis subject.
• Academic consultancy training (9 ECTS): During this course students will work in groups on an assignment for an external client.
• Modular skills training (3 ECTS): The modular skills training teaches skills that are necessary for graduates to function in jobs at MSc level. These skills are obtained by selecting and following a couple of modules.
• Thesis (30 ECTS): The thesis must be a minimum of 30 credits, which is carried out within one of the nine specialisations.
• Internship (24 ECTS): The internship must be a minimum of 24 credits, which is carried out within one of the nine specialisations.

SpecialisationsThe MSc Biology offers nine specialisations:

• Animal adaptation and behavioural biology
• Bio-interactions
• Molecular ecology
• Conservation and systems ecology
• Evolution and biodiversity
• Health and disease
• Marine biology
• Molecular development and gene regulation
• Plant adaptation

Specialisation coursesWithin a specialisation there are two courses that should be completed in order to obtain the level of knowledge needed to carry out a thesis or internship. Which courses are required varies among specialisation.
Optional coursesOptional courses can be selected from any relevant MSc programme offered either at Wageningen University or any other academic institution (subject to approval).
The combination of specialisation and optional courses gives students the opportunity to graduate with a profile that is tailor made to their specific interests.

You have obtained a BSc degree (or equivalent) in a field of science relevant to the MSc Biology programme:Unconditional admission with regard to content: With a BSc Biology degree from a Dutch University (the general requirements of Wageningen University should still be met).Possible admission: With a BSc from Wageningen University or a bachelor from a Dutch HBO.International students admission: depends on the previous education.Possible admission means that an individual pre-master programme might be required (the pre-master programme is only for Dutch students). This pre-master programme is a period (usually 0.5 to 1 years) in which the student follows courses to increase his or her background knowledge up to the required level.Attention: If you have an HBO degree in a green subject it does not necessarily mean that you are admissible to the MSc Biology programme. We expect you to have (possible after a pre-master programme) the knowledge on all the subjects that are taught at the BSc Biology at Wageningen University. This means that if you have graduated at an HBO, you can be admissible after a pre-master programme, but you can also be not admissible. To avoid disappointments you should start the application procedure on time to see if you are admissible. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 CAE score: (read more) Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at a high level (IETLS 6.5-8.0). It is an international English language exam set at the right level for academic and professional success. Developed by Cambridge English Language Assessment - part of the University of Cambridge - it helps you stand out from the crowd as a high achiever. 75 (Grade B) FCE score : (read more) Cambridge English: First (FCE) is part of the Cambridge English suite and is targeted at an upper-intermediate level (IELTS 5.5-6.5). It is an international English language exam which provides the perfect foundation for success in study and work. Take Cambridge English: First to prove your ability to use everyday written and spoken English when applying to study abroad. 60 (Grade C) TOEFL iBT® test: 80

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

Scholarships / Grants:

Neso Indonesia:
StuNed Scholarships for Master studies, short courses and customized training programmes are available for Indonesian professionals with at least two years work experience in a development-related organization.
For additional information: Website

Nuffic:
The Erasmus programme is a component of the European programme 'LifeLong Learning' from the European Commission for mobility of higher education in Europe. An Erasmus scholarship covers a period of 3-12 months. Only students or graduates from educational institutions can take part in the programme.
For additional information: Website

Nuffic:
The Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program (Ford-IFP) provides opportunities to exceptional individuals for advanced study. If you are a resident of an eligible IFP country and would like to study in Europe, Nuffic can act as a placement partner for you.
For additional information: Website

World Bank:
Successful applicants for the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program will be awarded funding covering all tuition and admission fees, as well as housing and subsistence allowance. Travel expenses between the awardees' home countries and Tokyo will also be provided.
For additional information: Website

Wagening Univerisity:
The Wageningen University Fund aims to maintain and strengthen the unique character of Wageningen University. Since 1951, the Fund has been organising and financing activities that support excellent research and education and stimulate the academic development of students.
For additional information: Website

:
This fund exists to enable promising students from developing countries to study at Wageningen University. The long term goal is the training of talented experts who will go on to play leading roles in improving the agricultural production, rural development and environment in their own countries.
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For additional information: Website

United Nations:
For additional information: Website

Accreditation

Accredited by: NVAO in: Netherlands