German-French Human and Molecular Biology

The German-French Master's degree programme in Human and Molecular Biology offered by Saarland University provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in biomedical research, healthcare, and biotechnology. This programme emphasizes the integration of molecular biology, genetics, and human biology with a strong international focus, fostering cross-cultural competence and collaboration skills. Throughout the course of study, students gain in-depth knowledge of cellular and molecular processes underlying human health and disease, supported by state-of-the-art laboratory techniques and modern research methodologies. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical laboratory work, enabling students to develop critical thinking skills, scientific writing, and experimental planning abilities. Furthermore, the programme benefits from close cooperation with research institutes and hospitals, offering students opportunities for internships, research projects, and networking within the scientific community. The multilingual environment facilitates effective communication in both German and French, preparing graduates for careers across Europe and beyond. Graduates are equipped to continue their academic careers through doctoral studies or to pursue professional roles in medical research, diagnostics, pharmaceutical development, or biotech enterprises. The programme’s structure includes coursework in molecular genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, human physiology, and bioinformatics, among other areas, ensuring a well-rounded education. Emphasis is placed on fostering innovation and interdisciplinary thinking, enabling students to contribute effectively to advancements in human health sciences. Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern biomedical research and to make meaningful contributions to solving complex biological problems.

Educational organisation

Students spend the first two semesters studying at their home university. Students at Saarland University then switch to the University of Strasbourg (Université de Strasbourg) where they spend their third and fourth semesters studying with their French counterparts. Both groups then relocate to Saarland University where the fifth semester is spent studying at the Saarbrücken and Homburg campuses. Students spend their sixth and final semester at the respective partner institution where they carry out an experimental project, which they submit as their final-year Bachelor's thesis.

Study abroad unit(s)

Saarland University students enrolled in the French-German programme spend the first year studying in Saarbrücken/Homburg and the second year in Strasbourg. The fifth semester is spent studying at Saarland University's Saarbrücken and Homburg campuses. Students from Saarland University then return to Strasbourg for the sixth semester to complete their final-year thesis.

Forms of assessment

Exams, project work, thesis in the final year

Course objectives

The course aims:

• to provide students with a solid understanding of human and molecular biology, including their chosen fields of specialisation
• to acquaint students with issues of current research relevance
• to prepare students for a Master's programme
• to provide students with the skills needed to work internationally in an academic or industrial environment

Language requirements

Applicants must have German (DSH certificate required for non-native speakers) and French skills. English skills are also necessary.

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

Applications to the international BSc programme are only accepted from candidates who have already been accepted into the non-international BSc programme "Biology (Human and Molecular Biology)".
Applicants must have a German higher education entrance qualification (Abitur) or a recognised equivalent higher education entrance qualification from the student's home country.

Enrolment fees

Approx. 200 EUR per semester, including a semester ticket covering public transport in the Saarbrücken area

Costs of living

About 800 EUR per month to cover personal expenses (incl. accommodation)

Job opportunities

Students may be able to work at the department doing laboratory work or supervising BSc students during lab courses or seminars.

Funding opportunities within the university

Students receive mobility grants from the Deutsch-Französische Hochschule DFH (German-French University). They can also apply for support from the "Deutschlandstipendium" national scholarship programme or from the EU's ERASMUS programme.

Arrival support

The International Office can help incoming students with a number of issues that need to be dealt with on arrival, including finding suitable accommodation as well as registering with the university and with the local authorities. The International Office also organises social and recreational events and intercultural training sessions.

Services and support for international students

Saarland University offers a special support and guidance service for the international students and visiting scholars. As well as welcoming new foreign students to the university, we organise excursions and cultural events where students and scholars from abroad can meet German students and colleagues. We also provide support in dealing with official and administrative matters. To encourage interaction between German and international students, the international office also runs a successful peer mentoring programme called "you and me".

Accommodation

Rooms and apartments are relatively easy to find and are affordable. For more information, please visit: http://www.studentenwerk-saarland.de/en/Wohnen