Cardiovascular Science

The Master's degree program in Cardiovascular Science at the University of Göttingen offers an interdisciplinary and research-oriented education designed to prepare students for a professional career in cardiovascular research, diagnostics, and therapy. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines fundamental sciences such as anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology with clinical applications related to cardiovascular diseases. Students will engage with advanced topics including vascular biology, cardiac function, heart failure, hypertension, and imaging techniques, fostering a deep understanding of the pathophysiology of cardiovascular disorders.

The program emphasizes practical skills through laboratory work, research projects, and internships, enabling students to acquire hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies used in cardiovascular research. Collaboration with leading experts and participation in ongoing research projects at the university's renowned institutes offer students the opportunity to contribute to scientific advancements in this vital field.

Graduates of the program will be well-equipped to pursue careers in medical research, pharmaceuticals, healthcare consulting, or further doctoral studies. The program also aims to develop critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication skills, preparing students to meet the evolving challenges in cardiovascular health and disease management. By enrolling in the Cardiovascular Science Master's program at Göttingen, students join a vibrant academic community committed to innovation and excellence in biomedical research and healthcare. The program’s multidimensional approach ensures graduates are competent in both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for impactful contributions to cardiovascular medicine.

Educational organisation

First semester:
M.CVS.101: "Cardiovascular Basics I" (lectures, seminars, and practical courses in anatomy, physiology, embryology, endocrinology)
M.CVS.102: "Cardiovascular Basics II" (lectures and seminars in cell biology, biophysics, biochemistry, signal transduction, genetics)
M.CVS.001: eight-week lab rotation I

Second semester:
M.CVS.201: "Cardiovascular diseases and therapies" (lectures, seminars, and practical courses in clinical aspects of cardiovascular diseases, cardiovascular pharmacology, interventional therapies)
M.CVS.002: eight-week lab rotation II

Third semester:
M.CVS.301: "Cardiovascular research in academia and industry" (lectures and seminars in clinical trials, state-of-the-art methods)
M.CVS.003: eight-week lab rotation III

Fourth Semester:
six-month Master's thesis

Study abroad unit(s)

Participants can spend a lab rotation or the Master's thesis at a cooperating university in Germany, the Netherlands or the UK.

Internships

During the Master's programme, all students carry out three lab rotations of eight weeks each in the research labs of the programme or in research labs of collaborating universities in Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK.

Forms of assessment

Examinations at the end of the modules, written (written exam, lab book, portfolio) or oral (seminar presentation)

Language requirements

Applicants who are not native English speakers should demonstrate adequate competence of the English language by acceptable results on an internationally recognised test (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, APIEL, CPE). Participation in such a test is recommended but not mandatory as language skills can also be evaluated during the personal interviews with selected candidates. Proven higher education in English or a reasonably long stay in an English-speaking country is also acceptable.

Academic requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor's or equivalent degree in molecular medicine, biology, biochemistry, or related fields (not medicine).
For further details, see: http://www.med.uni-goettingen.de/en/content/studycourses/21292.html

Enrolment fees

Enrolment fees are approx. 300 EUR per semester. Fees include a pre-paid semester ticket which entitles students to use regional trains free of charge within the federal states of Lower Saxony and Bremen as well as city buses. Students of the University of Göttingen receive discounts for cultural events. Meals and drinks are also available at reduced prices at all university canteens.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/fee

Costs of living

The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books reach approx. 700-750 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age. Living expenses might be slightly higher.

Job opportunities

Because of the intensive nature of the programme, there will not be much time to work while studying.

Arrival support

The International Office provides a complimentary pick-up service ("Buddy Exchange Service") from Göttingen railway station to the accommodation. German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city during their first weeks. There is also an orientation week for new international students, which provides valuable information about Göttingen and the university.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/49307.html
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/196392.html

Services and support for international students

The International Office assists international students with all administrative questions regarding their stay in Germany, e.g. enrolment, visa, foreigners' registration office, health insurance, and financing of their studies. Furthermore, it features a broad cultural programme, e.g. international cultural evenings, language workshops, theatre courses, films, dance classes, theatre and opera visits. Trips to various tourist destinations in Germany are offered throughout the year.
The coordination office for the Master's programme Cardiovascular Science and the Office of International Affairs, both at the University of Göttingen, also offer individual support.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/48483.html

Accommodation

The International Office, in collaboration with the student services organisation ("Studentenwerk"), helps students find adequate accommodation. Many international students live in student residences. These have single apartments or shared apartments with individual rooms. There are also apartments available for couples and families with children.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/364086.html