Medical Biotechnology

The Master’s programme in Medical Biotechnology at KTH Royal Institute of Technology is an advanced interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for careers at the forefront of biomedical research, pharmaceutical development, and healthcare innovation. This comprehensive program integrates principles from biology, chemistry, engineering, and medicine to provide students with a solid understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying human health and disease. Throughout the course of study, students acquire skills in molecular biology, genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and bioprocessing, enabling them to develop innovative solutions for diagnostics, therapeutics, and regenerative medicine. The program emphasizes practical laboratory work, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the application of cutting-edge technologies such as CRISPR gene editing, bioreactor design, and systems biology. Students will engage with real-world challenges faced by the medical and biotech industries through project-based learning, internships, and collaborations with university research groups and industry partners. Graduates of this program will be equipped to pursue careers in biotech companies, pharmaceutical industries, biomedical research institutions, and healthcare organizations. They will also possess the necessary expertise to contribute to the development of personalized medicine, novel vaccines, and regenerative therapies. The programme is taught in English and benefits from KTH’s strong connections with industry and academia, providing students with excellent opportunities for networking and employment after graduation. With a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills, this Master’s programme aims to foster innovative thinking and scientific excellence to meet the growing global demand for skilled professionals in medical biotechnology.

Year 1

The first year consists of mandatory core courses, providing in-depth knowledge in different areas of biotechnology and molecular biology. The core courses are supplemented with a wide range of recommended courses in biotechnology, chemistry and management/economy.

Mandatory courses

• Theory and Methodology of Science with Applications (Natural and Technological Science) 7.5 credits
• Microbiology 9.0 credits
• Eucaryotic Cell Biology 7.5 credits
• Structure Biology 7.5 credits
• Bioinformatics and Biostatistics 7.0 credits
• Genetics and Genomics 10.0 credits
• Industrial Management, Basic Course 6.0 credits

Recommended courses

• Programming in Python 7.5 credits
• Molecular Enzymology 7.5 credits
• Molecular Modeling 7.5 credits
• Plant Biotechnology 7.5 credits
• The Immune System in Health and Disease 6.0 credits
• Biocatalysis 7.5 credits
• Micro and Nanotechnologies for Biotechnology 6.0 credits
• Applied Bioinformatics 7.5 credits
• Spectroscopic Tools for Chemistry 9.0 credits
• From Science to Business- Concepts in Biotechnology 7.5 credits

Year 2

The first semester of the second year consists of mandatory courses providing in-depth knowledge in biotechnology with an emphasis on medical applications. These courses are supplemented with recommended courses similar to those offered during the first year. The second semester of year two consists of an individual degree project in biotechnology.

Mandatory courses

• Degree Project in Biotechnology, Second Cycle 30.0 credits
• Drug Development 6.0 credits
• Molecular Biomedicine 7.5 credits
• Proteomics 6.0 credits

Recommended courses

• Ethics of Biotechnology 7.5 credits
• Environmental Toxicology 9.0 credits
• Glycobiology and Carbohydrate Technology 7.5 credits
• Analysis of Data fram High-throughput Molecular Biology Experiments 7.5 credits
• Advanced Organic Chemistry 7.5 credits
• Project Management: Leadership and Control 6.0 credits

Degree project and thesis

The degree project is performed during the last semester of the programme, where the student works on a research topic related to the theoretical courses in the curriculum. The project may be carried out either in a research setting at KTH, in industry in Sweden or abroad, or in another university or research institute anywhere in the world.

Requirements

• A completed Bachelor's degree, corresponding to a Swedish Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS credits), or equivalent academic qualifications from an internationally recognised university.
• Students in their final year of undergraduate education may apply to KTH and, if qualified, receive conditional acceptance. If you have not yet completed your studies, please include a written statement issued by the degree awarding university. This statement must be certified and stamped by the Academic Registrar's Office, the Examinations Office or equivalent of the institution. Statements from other staff members, such as faculty members, will not be accepted.
• Students who are following longer technical programmes, and have completed courses equivalent to a Bachelor´s degree (180 ECTS credits), will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Cover sheet (generated from the web-based application). However, if you have a Swedish personal ID number or if you choose to upload your documents, the cover sheet is not required.
• Certificates and diplomas from previous education at an internationally recognised university.
• Transcripts of records (including course list). All courses taken and grades must be included. Sort them in reverse chronological order, i.e. put the last received document on top.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• A copy of your passport or some other document of identification. If you are from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland and are required to document your citizenship status in order to be considered exempt from paying application and tuition fees, your passport copy must be certified. If you are not a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, certification of your passport copy is not required.
• Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of motivation
• Letters of recommendation
• Relevant work experience, if any
• List of qualifications for specific requirements
• IELTS A minimum overall mark of 6.5, with no section lower than 5.5 (only Academic Training accepted). 
• TOEFL Paper-based test: total result of 575 (written test, minimum grade 4.5)
• TOEFL  Internet-based test: total result of 90 (written test, minimum grade 20)

Scholarships

• KTH Scholarship
• Russian Presidency Scholarship for Abroad Studies

The Master's Programme in Medical Biotechnology at KTH Royal Institute of Technology is an advanced education aimed at training students to become experts in the application of biotechnological methods within the medical and healthcare sectors. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of molecular biology, cell biology, bioinformatics, and bioprocess engineering, all tailored towards developing innovative solutions for medical challenges. Throughout the programme, students explore cutting-edge techniques such as genetic engineering, stem cell technology, regenerative medicine, diagnostic methods, and the development of biopharmaceuticals.

The curriculum typically includes courses in molecular medicine, systems biology, pharmaceuticals, and regulatory affairs. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with laboratory work and project-based assignments forming a significant part of the education. The programme prepares graduates to work in research and development within biopharmaceutical companies, medical device firms, healthcare providers, or academic institutions. It also provides a solid foundation for doctoral studies in related fields, allowing graduates to pursue careers in academia or industry.

Students have opportunities for international collaboration and internships, often facilitated through partnerships with the industry and healthcare organizations. The program promotes interdisciplinary learning, combining biology, chemistry, engineering, and medicine to enable students to develop innovative biomedical solutions. Graduates will possess the necessary competencies to design, analyze, and optimize biotechnological processes and products, contributing to advancements in personalized medicine, diagnostics, and therapeutics.

The MSc in Medical Biotechnology at KTH is typically completed over two years (full-time study). Applicants are expected to have a background in engineering, science, or technology, with a strong interest in biomedical applications. The program is offered in English, attracting students from around the world, fostering an international academic environment. Upon completion, graduates receive a Master of Science in Engineering degree, qualifying them for leadership roles in biotech industries, research institutions, and healthcare organizations globally.