Food Biotechnology

The interdisciplinary and research-oriented Master's programme in Food Biotechnology is concerned with the properties, the production processes and the manifold applications of enzymes and microorganisms in the food industry, in its supplying industries and for bioanalytical purposes. Microorganisms are especially good producers of enzymes and can be cultivated in bioreactors under controlled, safe and standardised conditions.

In this programme, students explore enzymatic production processes. Biochemical methods, including the purification, characterisation and immobilisation of enzymes, enzyme kinetics, gene expression and the mutagenesis of recombinant enzymes, find their application here. A thorough understanding of pathogens and the importance of hygiene in food production is essential for utilising microorganisms and enzymes in the life science industry. The combination of innovation and safe processing is at the core of this programme.

Educational organisation

During the first semester, you acquire fundamental knowledge of the identification and recovery of enzymes and microorganisms in the life sciences and its connected industries. This includes a comprehensive introduction to food microbiology, enzyme analysis, and their corresponding methodologies and research strategies.

From the second semester onwards, you freely plan your studies according to your individual interests and preferred areas of specialisation. You may choose to either specialise in one of two majors or to become a generalist in the field of food biotechnology. While your approach to the programme may thus differ, you will, in all cases, increasingly conduct independent research from the second semester onwards.

The major in Enzyme Biotechnology focuses on enzymatic production processes and their utilisation in the industrial sector. You acquire expertise in biochemical methods, including the purification, characterisation, and immobilisation of enzymes, enzyme kinetics, and gene expression. You focus on the development and analysis of the effectiveness of biofunctional and technofunctional components, such as enzymes, antioxidants, pro- and prebiotics, dyes, and bioactive peptides.

The major in Food Microbiology demands a thorough understanding of pathogens and the importance of hygiene in food production, which is essential for utilising microorganisms and enzymes in the life science industry. You focus on controlling the reproduction of microorganisms - from starter cultures to bioreactors - and determining their genetic functions by regulating gene expression to produce specific proteins.

A research-intensive Master's thesis at a department of your choice is preceded by completing a research project at the same department, introducing you to the research group and their current projects. Your Master's thesis will then be integrated into ongoing research at the Institute of Food Science and Biotechnology and will allow you to demonstrate your ability to conduct independent scientific work.

Internships

Students have the opportunity to complete an internship lasting a minimum of six weeks, in the context of an elective module. This internship may be integrated flexibly into the course of studies.

Forms of assessment

There are written and oral exams. In addition, most practical courses require students to write a report. A few modules demand a term paper.

Course objectives

Graduates of the programme have an extensive overview of the wide-ranging possibilities for practical applications of biotechnology, microbiology, and enzyme technology. In addition, they know how to apply these techniques in the food industry.

The programme is designed to develop expertise in this field. Graduates are well prepared to synthesise ideas and apply their knowledge by developing transdisciplinary and innovative strategies to find solutions to persistent problems. Students are introduced to key concepts in the theory and practice of enzyme technology, food microbiology, and biotechnology, as well as to their respective qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques. Graduates are able to independently plan, execute and report on projects dealing with primary research and practical application, as well as publish their findings afterwards.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of good English language skills. Proof of language proficiency can be presented by obtaining one of the following accepted certificates:

• Internet-based TOEFL test with a minimum of 90 out of 120 points
• IELTS certificate with a minimum of 6.5 out of 9 points
• UNIcert II certificate with a minimum grade of "good"

Applicants can be exempted from producing proof of language proficiency if they declare English to be their mother tongue and are citizens of one of the following countries: the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United States of America, Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, Belize, Guyana OR have completed a Bachelor's or Master's programme with English as the language of instruction at a university in a country listed above or a in member state of the European Union.

Applicants also have to provide proof of basic German language skills. Proof of language proficiency can be presented by obtaining one of the following accepted certificates:

• UNIcert I certificate with a minimum grade of "good" ("gut")
• the Goethe-Zertifikat B1: Zertifikat Deutsch of the Goethe Institut
• the Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz, level DSD 1
• the Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Test DaF) with a minimum score of 3 in all 4 examinations
• the examination certificate of the DSH I (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang, German Language Examination for University Admission)

Applicants can be exempted from producing proof of language proficiency if they declare German to be their mother tongue or have a German higher education entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur).

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

1. A Bachelor's or equivalent degree completed at a domestic or foreign university that meets the following criteria:

• programme lasted a minimum of three years and awarded a minimum of 180 ECTS credits
• programme with a profile in the natural sciences or engineering

2. Documented proof of good English language skills:
Minimum level required is B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

3. Documented proof of basic German language skills:
Minimum level required is B1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

4. Successful completion of the obligatory aptitude assessment

Enrolment fees

160 EUR per semester

Costs of living

Approx. 700 EUR per month to cover personal expenses, including rent

Arrival support

The Office of International Affairs organises Orientation Days for all incoming international students. They offer informational as well as recreational events and provide you with information on how to best get settled in Hohenheim.

The International Student Organisation runs a buddy programme, which provides international students with a buddy, if so desired. The buddy helps with all formalities concerning the university and government agencies. In addition, the buddy is the contact person for all questions about life in Germany and at the university.

Services and support for international students

The International Student Organisation (ISO) offers a buddy programme as well as an extensive recreational programme.

Accommodation

Hohenheim owns several dormitories within walking distance of university buildings. All rooms have internet access and a phone. Communal facilities include washing machines, tumble dryers, and common and party rooms. Rent for single rooms ranges from 210-400 EUR.

Private accommodation is available starting at approx. 300 EUR per month. The Office of International Affairs offers assistance when looking for private accommodation. More information can be found at www.uni-hohenheim.de/wohnraummentoring.