Molecular Life Sciences

The Master's programme in Molecular Life Sciences at Radboud University offers an in-depth exploration of the fundamental processes that govern life at the molecular and cellular levels. This comprehensive program is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the mechanisms underlying biological functions and diseases, as well as developing innovative solutions in health, biotechnology, and research. Throughout the program, students gain a solid foundation in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics, and cell biology, complemented by training in cutting-edge techniques such as microscopy, molecular cloning, sequencing, and bioinformatics.

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical laboratory skills, enabling students to conduct independent research projects and contribute to scientific advancements. A unique feature of this Master's is its focus on interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to work at the interface of molecular biology, systems biology, and biotechnology. The programme prepares graduates for careers in academia, industry, or healthcare by fostering critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a thorough understanding of scientific methods.

Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities, and benefit from close collaboration with faculty members who are leading experts in their fields. The programme also emphasizes professional development, including scientific communication, ethics, and project management. Additionally, students can participate in international exchange programs or internships, broadening their global perspectives and practical experience. With its comprehensive curriculum and innovative approach, the Master's in Molecular Life Sciences equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a rapidly evolving scientific landscape, ultimately contributing to advancements in medicine, biotechnology, and environmental science.

Each academic year starts in September and is divided into quarters of ten weeks each. You will attend lectures and do lab courses during the first eight weeks, followed by an examination period of two weeks. You will have a full-time working week of 40 hours, consisting of various forms of education. The majority of the courses include lectures and tutorials, which will take up 40 percent of your time. Tutorials are typically held in groups of approximately twenty students. In addition, you will spend one third of the time on lab courses. Some of these are done individually, others, in pairs or with a project group. The lab courses follow the themes as the lectures. In addition you are expected to spend 25 percent of your time in self-study.

First year: In the Molecular Life Sciences programme you’ll study biological and biomedical processes from a molecular perspective. This molecular basis and molecular way of thinking are key for the next years. You will put your newly gained knowledge into practice. For example, you will analyse molecules techniques such as infrared, UV and NMR spectroscopy, and research how alcohol is removed from the body by the liver.

Second and third year: From the second academic year on, the focus of the programme shifts to biomedical research. Halfway through the second year you can choose from of a variety of courses such as Advanced Bioinformatics where, for example, you can predict protein conformations through intelligent programming and design medicines through computer simulation. In the Toxicology course, you’ll learn how the body reacts to various toxic substances from, for instance, medicines and their effect on the liver, kidneys, and other organs. Other courses include Immunology, Pharmacochemistry, Cell Biology of Animals, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Organic Chemistry, Neurobiology, Nanobiotechnology, Molecular Basis of Diseases, and Comparative Genomics. You’ll finish your Bachelor’s programme with a research internship in which you participate in ongoing research at Radboud University, and you might even discover something that is yet unknown. During your Bachelor’s programme, you’ll also look into what you intend to do with your Molecular Life Science degree and various options for a Master’s programme. 

Language requirements

You should have sufficient proficiency in English. This requirement is fulfilled when you meet one of the following conditions:

• obtained a Dutch VWO diploma
• obtained a German Zeugnis der Allgemeinen Hochschulreife, and English has a minimum grade 08 as a final year subject (either “geprüft” or “ungeprüft”)
• obtained an International Baccalaureate diploma
• obtained a European Baccalaureate diploma, in which the course English Language 2 or 1 has been taken
• obtained GCE A-levels from AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC or CCEA in the UK or outside the UK
• obtained an American High School Diploma in the US or outside the US
• obtained a diploma in which English has been part of the final examinations from European countries mentioned in the list of language requirements (pdf, 264 kB)
• obtained a diploma equivalent to or higher than the DutchVWO level by completing education at an institution in the one of the member states of the EU/EEA, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or the United States of America, where the language of instruction is English
• you are a citizen of Australia, Canada (with exception of Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, the UK, or the USA

If you do not meet one of the above conditions, then you must satisfy one the following conditions:

• obtain an IELTS Academic certificate with a result of at least 6.5 on the overall band and scores of at least 6.0 on all four sub-bands
• obtain a TOEFL iBT certificate with a total score of at least 90 and scores of at least 20 on all four parts
• obtain a Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English with a mark of at least C
• obtain a Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English with a mark of at least C

Governmental student finance: EU/EEA students might qualify for a student loan from the Dutch government. To be entitled to this loan, you need to work for fourteen hours a week (56 hours a month) in the Netherlands (next to your studies). If you are entitled to receive the student loan from the Dutch government, you may receive up to € 1,000 per month, in addition to your salary. After graduation, you will need to pay back the loan. In order to determine how much you need to pay back each month, the Dutch government will take your financial situation (such as income) into account. More information is available on www.duo.nl

The Molecular Life Sciences master's programme at Radboud University offers students an in-depth understanding of the fundamental processes governing life at a molecular level. This interdisciplinary programme combines aspects of biology, chemistry, and biochemistry to explore the complex mechanisms that underpin molecular functions in living organisms. Throughout the course, students gain comprehensive knowledge of areas such as biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, and systems biology, enabling them to analyze and manipulate biological molecules and systems effectively. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for diverse career paths in research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and academia, emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical laboratory skills.

Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects, working alongside renowned scientists in state-of-the-art laboratories. The curriculum includes courses on protein structure and function, genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and experimental techniques used in molecular biology research. Radboud University emphasizes a hands-on approach, where students are encouraged to develop their own research ideas, participate in collaborative projects, and contribute to advancements in the field. The programme also offers specializations, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests, such as molecular biotechnology or structural biology.

The university's strong international orientation means that students from all over the world come together, fostering a diverse and collaborative learning environment. International exchange opportunities, internships, and networking events further enhance students' academic and professional development. The multidisciplinary nature of the programme ensures that graduates are well-equipped with both the scientific expertise and the soft skills necessary to succeed in competitive and innovative sectors. Overall, the Master’s in Molecular Life Sciences at Radboud University aims to cultivate the next generation of scientists capable of addressing complex biological challenges and contributing to advancements in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.