Microbiology

The Bachelor's degree program in Microbiology at the University of Jena offers a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts and methodologies of microbial sciences. This curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the biology, chemistry, and biochemistry of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Throughout the program, students will explore the roles of microbes in ecosystems, their impact on human health, and their applications in industrial and biotechnological processes. The program emphasizes practical laboratory skills, enabling students to conduct experiments, analyze data, and utilize modern microbiological techniques. Students will also gain knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and immunology, which are essential for understanding microbial functions and interactions.

The program combines theoretical coursework with hands-on laboratory training, encouraging critical thinking and scientific inquiry. Students will have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners, preparing them for careers in healthcare, research, environmental science, food safety, and biotechnology sectors. The curriculum is structured to foster interdisciplinary understanding and problem-solving skills, equipping graduates with the ability to address current challenges related to infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental sustainability.

At the University of Jena, students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, renowned faculty, and a vibrant academic community dedicated to scientific excellence. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and the societal impacts of microbiological research, preparing students for responsible professional practice. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will be well-equipped to pursue advanced studies or enter the workforce in various microbiological fields. This degree offers a unique opportunity to engage deeply with one of the most fascinating and vital branches of biological sciences, contributing to advancements in health, industry, and environmental protection.

Educational organisation

The study course is constructed in a modular manner. Individual modules consist of lectures, seminars, exercises, practical courses, field courses, excursions, project work, tutorials, laboratory classes, colloquia, independent studies, and examinations. Each module constitutes a learning and examination unit. Each module extends over one semester or one academic year. The modules for the first academic year provide a basis for extension of previously acquired knowledge and for preparation of independent project work as well as for learning how to present scientific results. Therefore, the first academic year comprises three basic modules (obligatory), as well as three advanced modules (compulsory elective). Additional modules can be recognised following evaluation by the board of examiners.
The basic modules are: Energy Metabolism of Bacteria, Molecular Genetics and Physiology of Communication in Fungi, and Microbial Interactions.
The advanced modules are: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Anaerobic Bacteria, Biotechnology of Fermentation Processes, Degradation of Natural Products and Xenobiotics, Microbial Genetics and Molecular Biology, Methods and Techniques in Microbial Genetics and Microbiology, Phylogeny of Fungi, Identification of Bacteria, Microbial Phytopathology, Cell Biology and Communication in Basidiomycetes, Molecular Biology/Biotechnology of Lower Eukaryotes, Molecular Biology of Pathogenic and Non-Pathogenic Yeasts, Immune Reactions of Humans Against Microorganisms and Pathogens, Secondary Metabolites, Limnochemistry and Microbial Ecology, Chemical Ecology, and Medical Microbiology.
The second academic year is devoted to research in a module designed to develop an individual research area. This includes a project module and the writing of the Master's thesis.
Part-time studies are possible.

Study abroad unit(s)

It is recommended that students study abroad during the second or third semester. Credit points acquired abroad are recognised if it is agreed upon in a mentoring session.

Internships

No internships

Forms of assessment

Assessments for the modules can be carried out in the form of examinations, written homework, an oral presentation, a graphical representation, an oral examination, experimental work, or a combination of these types of assessments.
The assessments are subdivided into
1. assessments in the modules of the first academic year
2. the Master's thesis
The study course comprises a total of 120 credit points, in accordance with the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). 60 credit points can be acquired each academic year. Therefore, the first academic year comprises three basic and three advanced modules, each with ten credit points. In the second academic year, a project and specialisation module are carried out (each 15 CP) and the Master's thesis is prepared (30 CP).

Course objectives

Besides subject-specific scientific abilities, graduates gain communication skills for displaying science in the public sphere. They can also gain the required international qualification, possibly by spending a semester abroad. The Master's programme offers a consecutive, scientific, graduate study course, especially for students coming from the fields of biology, microbiology, bioinformatics, biochemistry, cell biology, medical microbiology or biogeosciences. These fields of study are offered by the Friedrich Schiller University as well as by other universities in Germany and abroad.
Graduates of the study programme are perfectly trained for a scientific career or for industry (especially biotechnology).
Occupational fields for microbiologists include fundamental research and development at universities and other research institutions (e.g., Max Planck Institutes), industrial research and development, industrial production, public administration, education and training, and environmental protection and conservation.

Language requirements

In order to participate in the course of studies, an adequate level of knowledge of the English language is essential.

Academic requirements

A Bachelor of Science degree in biology entitles the applicant to apply for admission to the Master's degree course in microbiology. Admission is on the basis of selection criteria and grades, and a letter of motivation is taken into consideration.
The following application documents are to be submitted as authenticated copies by the set deadline:
a) Proof of having passed academic examinations and detailed documentation of completed studies in the first course of study for a vocational qualification
b) If relevant, proof of research work (research, publications, research work, periods spent abroad carrying out research or studying)
c) If relevant, proof of having carried out a relevant job (biology technician, industrial experience, etc.)

---

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

Enrolment fees

The semester fee covers the cost of student services and the student self-government. It also includes a semester ticket for free use of public transportation. The fee is approx. 190 EUR per semester. Additionally, there is one-off fee of 20 EUR for a multifunctional student ID card (Thoska).

Costs of living

We recommend that you budget at least 600 EUR per month for accommodation and food. For books, we recommend that you budget a further 50 EUR per semester.

Job opportunities

Students can work as student assistants.

Arrival support

Students are advised to arrive at Jena University by 1 October for the winter semester. Before classes start, Jena University offers an orientation week in order to introduce international students to the city and university. Information about the orientation week will be sent with the letter of admission.

Services and support for international students

At the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, the International Office assists all international students and can direct them to the department responsible for answering any questions they may have. Jena University has ERASMUS agreements with more than 200 European partners and 30 bilateral agreements with partners in Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, the USA, Canada, and Japan. Jena University has 2,200 international students who come from 85 countries.
There is a comprehensive programme of counselling, administrative support, language courses, and tutoring for incoming students. The International Office also arranges accommodation for students who come to Jena on exchange or scholarship programmes.
The rooms in the student residences are allocated by Student Services ("Studentenwerk Thueringen": http://www.stw-thueringen.de). Private flats are also available, but students must find them on their own. Student mentors assist incoming students by meeting them at the train station, showing them to their rooms, introducing them to the university and its facilities, familiarising them with the city of Jena, introducing them to student life, and helping them with their paperwork. Student associations and groups offer a wide variety of joint activities and events, tandem language courses, concerts, excursions, etc., to help the international students to feel welcome and integrated. The Language Centre offers German language courses at several different levels.

Accommodation

Accommodation in student residences is available. Please apply at the "Studentenwerk Thüringen" (http://www.stw-thueringen.de).
For further information, please visit our website at: http://www.stw-thueringen.de/english/housing/wohnen.html.

You can also look for single or shared private accommodation yourself. In the buildings of the university, there are numerous information boards with accommodation offers. Note, however, that the availability of private accommodation in Jena is rather limited.