Microbiology

Microorganisms have dominated the history of the earth and life for many millions of years. To this day, most chemical reactions on earth are based on their metabolism. They are responsible for the re-mineralisation of organic matter, but they are also involved to a large extent in the production of biomass and in the biogeochemical cycles. Microbiology is a rapidly developing science and the diversity of microorganisms seems enormous. However, only a fraction have been studied so far. Modern techniques in biotechnology are based on the application of microbial pure cultures with clearly defined properties, and progress in the fields of gene technology and genome and proteome analysis relies largely on the study of microorganisms.
The Master of Science in Microbiology is designed to give both German and international students a professional qualification in a field with unlimited potential. The course is designed and run by the Institute for Marine Chemistry and Biology (ICBM) at the Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg, and is focused on environmental and research-oriented microbiology.
Highlights are:

• Close contact to current marine research programmes, e.g. the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Centre Roseobacter
• Excellent facilities for analytics, modelling and molecular biology
• International, well-guided group
• Small research projects are part of the study programme
• Cooperation with research institutes in Oldenburg, Wilhelmshaven, Bremen, and Braunschweig
• Professional qualification for fields such as research, molecular biology, biotechnology, environmental protection
• Master's degree in a certified programme in English qualifies graduates for PhD programmes worldwide
• Good opportunities for PhD project at the ICBM and in research institutes nearby

In the first semester, students gain knowledge about the diversity and physiology of prokaryotes, unicellular eukaryotes and viruses. The work groups involved in the study programme offer a range of broadening lectures covering a variety of subjects. In the first two semesters, two four-week practicals are undertaken in which ambitious projects, mostly derived from current scientific programmes, are carried out. Students typically work in pairs under the guidance of a lecturer or PhD student. In the accompanying seminars, recent scientific studies in international journals are researched and presented by the students. The results are recorded and discussed in a protocol fulfilling scientific requirements. In two profile modules of two weeks in length, selected areas of microbiology are studied in theory and practice. At present, the following profile modules are offered: analytical methods of microbiology, DNA sequencing, fermentation, electron microscopy and bacterial physiology.

As a special part of the study programme, two six-week research projects are offered. Here, students are able to work independently on an ambitious project, and they receive only minimal input from tutors. During the course of these practical modules, students learn to research and understand recent scientific literature, and have the opportunity to apply it for their own work. The projects furthermore serve as preparation for the final Master's thesis.

Educational organisation

As students progress through the course, they collect a total of 120 credit points (CP). The course begins with the completion of two modules; these serve to give students a common grounding in the relevant theory and also train them in standard scientific communication. In addition, a pair of main modules teaches students practical scientific skills. Each module is worth 12 CP. Three modules (profile modules) are studied which cover current applications of microbiology. These are valued at six CP each.
Students will then undertake two modules of independent scientific research projects. 12 credit points are awarded per project. The programme is then concluded with a Master's project and thesis, valued at 30 CP.

The Microbiology Course consists of the following modules:

• Microbial Physiology and Diversity (12 CP)
• Molecular Mechanisms and Interactions (12 CP)
• Main Modules (24 CP)
• Profile Modules (18 CP)
• Research Projects (24 CP)
• Master's thesis (30 CP)

The overview can be found at:
http://www.pmbio.icbm.de/mamibi/program_overview.html

Study abroad unit(s)

Students are encouraged to perform part of their studies at a foreign laboratory. However, this is not obligatory.

Internships

None

Forms of assessment

Written or oral exams after the lecture period, controlled lab reports, written thesis to be defended

Course objectives

Many of our graduates have the opportunity to obtain PhD positions at the Institute for Marine Chemistry and Biology at the University of Oldenburg, or in other research institutes nearby. In addition, a wide range of attractive employment fields are available for microbiologists.
Our graduates have excellent opportunities in the biotechnological, chemical and food industries, as well as prospects in environmental protection, e.g. wastewater treatment and bioremediation. Microbiological and molecular techniques are also applied in agriculture in order to evaluate the quality and microflora of soils, and to detect potential pests. A wide range of options are available to the microbiology graduate. Due to the rapid development in molecular biology, job opportunities are increasing every day.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills: TOEFL 550 (paper-based), 213 (computer-based), 79 (internet-based), IELTS 6.5, CEFR B2, or equivalent. German students should have earned 11 points on average during the last two years at secondary level II or an equivalent qualification.

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in biology, life sciences, microbiology or equivalent

Enrolment fees

Approx. 280 EUR per semester
The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the Oldenburg area.

Costs of living

Approx. 600 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

Student assistant positions are available.

Funding opportunities within the university

Oldenburg University has become the first university in Lower Saxony to introduce a scholarship programme for international students to cover tuition fees. Students can apply for the scholarship from the second semester onwards and must demonstrate regular study activity and the appropriate examination results. Applicants must be on track within the standard period of study (plus a maximum of four semesters). The amount of money granted with each scholarship is equal to the amount of tuition fees due.

Scholarship for foreign students - Oldenburger Modell (STOM)
Starting in the second semester, foreign students (non-EU) can apply for a performance-based grant of 500 EUR to cover student fees. Students need to fulfil 75% of the curriculum.
http://www.iso.uni-oldenburg.de/en/60602.html

Arrival support

The International Student Office offers an orientation week to new students providing information about studying and living in Oldenburg, residence permits, etc. The programme includes tours of the university and the city of Oldenburg as well as cultural activities. Tutors - advanced foreign and German students - give guidance and support on academic and social matters. Further information: http://www.uni-oldenburg.de/en/iso

Services and support for international students

Intensive study guidance counselling is provided by professors and lecturers.
There are special campus activities for international students.

Accommodation

Furnished accommodation is available at a cost of 150 to 250 EUR per month (halls of residence or private).
If you want to come to Oldenburg from abroad, there is now less need to worry about accommodation or other organisational matters. The Studentenwerk Oldenburg offers international students a service package for 964 EUR, which includes accommodation for six months and other services that should help you get started. Furthermore, a counselling service is available to get you safely through your first weeks and months in Oldenburg.
For further information and application form, please check:
http://www.studentenwerk-oldenburg.de/internationale-studierende.html