Molecular lnfection Biology (Double Degree)

The Double Degree Programme in Molecular Infection Biology at Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education in the fields of microbiology, molecular biology, immunology, and infectious diseases. This programme is designed for students who aspire to deepen their understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying infections and host-pathogen interactions, preparing them for a variety of careers in research, healthcare, and industry. Throughout the course of study, students engage in rigorous coursework that covers fundamental concepts such as microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, and immunology, complemented by specialized modules focusing on infectious diseases, diagnostics, and innovative treatment strategies.

Students also gain practical laboratory experience through state-of-the-art experiments and research projects, which foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for scientific inquiry. An important aspect of the programme is its international orientation, allowing students to study at partner universities abroad, thus broadening their academic perspective and cultural understanding. The Double Degree structure enables participants to earn two official qualifications upon successful completion: one from Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg and another from the partner university, enhancing their employability and academic credentials on a global scale.

The programme is suitable for highly motivated students with a strong interest in molecular medicine, infectious diseases, and biological research. It prepares graduates for diverse professional pathways, including research roles in academia, biotechnology, pharmaceutical industries, or for further academic pursuits such as a PhD. The close cooperation with research institutions and hospitals in and around Würzburg ensures access to cutting-edge research facilities and clinical data, enriching the learning experience. Graduates leave equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for advancing in the rapidly evolving field of infection biology and contributing to the development of innovative solutions to global health challenges.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme Molecular Infection Biology is offered at both universities. The students enrol at one of the partnering universities for the double degree programme. They select among the modules offered at either of the universities to accomplish a minimum of 30 credits at the partnering university. The subsequent thesis and preferentially a preceding training unit in the field of interest are co-supervised by professors of each university.

Study abroad unit(s)

Participants accomplish at least 30 credits (not including the thesis) of the study programme at the partnering university. The final thesis is co-supervised by professors of both universities.

Internships

Laboratory research training courses in scientific working groups are an integral part of the study programme, and students are strongly encouraged to join a research group at the partnering university. The students get advice and support to find and join research groups of interest and may also directly contact group leaders. The research training is part of the regular study programme, and students are credited upon providing a scientific report. In addition, students may also find opportunities for comparable research training internships in enterprises. These may also be credited.

Forms of assessment

Written exams, oral exams, scientific reports, and presentations of scientific data

Course objectives

The double degree holders have a deepened scientific knowledge and understanding in a selected field of infection biology. Based on a state of the art understanding of molecular, intra- and intercellular processes and signalling, they are able to further investigate and develop novel strategies for future therapeutic approaches.

Language requirements

The proof of English language skills should be at a level of at least:

• the Test of English as a Foreign language (TOEFL) with at least 570 paper-based, 240 computer-based or 90 Internet-based or
• the International English Language Test System with a score of 6.5 or better or
• a Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE) or
• an English-language Bachelor's degree or
• any certificate issued by the Admission Committee of the Faculty of Biology from the University of Würzburg after approving of English skills based on the assessment of a Bachelor's thesis written in English language, of a language course other than specified above, or an interview held in English language.

Academic requirements

Criteria for the admission in Würzburg:

Bachelor of Science in Biology or in a study programme that fulfils the criteria of the "Fachkanon Biologie", in particular:
(i) Required skills in basic biology in the fields of botany, zoology, and microbiology which may have been achieved in the areas of cell biology, developmental biology, genetics, systematics, physiology, ecology, neurobiology, or behavioural biology: 30 ECTS in total
(ii) Required skills in advanced biology achieved in any of the following areas: cell biology, developmental biology, behavioural biology, virology, immunology, neurobiology, human genetics, microbiology, biotechnology, ecology, pharmaceutical biology, bioinformatics, biophysics, biochemistry: 45 ECTS in total
(Please note: A differentiation between skills in basic and advance biology is not necessary, as long as you prove at least a sum of 75 ECTS in biology)
(iii) Required skills in chemistry (inorganic, organic, physical): 15 ECTS
(iv) Required skills in physics, mathematics, biostatistics: 15 ECTS

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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

104 EUR per semester. The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transportation in the Würzburg metropolitan area.

Costs of living

Approx. 700 EUR per month

Job opportunities

See: http://www.international.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/studying_in_wuerzburg/degree_programs_at_the_university_of_wuerzburg/before_arrival/costs_and_financing/

Services and support for international students

International students are invited to use the university's support service for enrolment and visa affairs, for orientation in town, etc. Mentors can help during the first weeks in Würzburg with:

• pick-up at the train station
• support with moving into the hall of residence (get the key to your room, contact with the caretaker)
• accompanying students to official offices (town hall, health insurance, Studentenwerk, etc.)
• assistance with filling out necessary forms (enrolment at university, residence permit, etc.)
• answers to questions about everyday life in the city of Würzburg (shopping, how to open a bank account, free time/sport and much more)

For more information, see: http://www.international.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/studying_in_wuerzburg/information_for_all_foreign_students/find_assistance/student_tutors/

The senior adviser to international students (International Office) can be contacted with questions and problems and will do his best to provide adequate assistance throughout their stay. He is also in charge of coordinating the semester programme, which includes cultural events, excursions, guided library tours, etc.

Several other institutions within and closely related to the university offer services for international students: http://www.international.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/studying_in_wuerzburg/information_for_all_foreign_students/activitiesfriends/get_connected/#c365184

At the University of Würzburg, international students are well taken care of.

Accommodation

International students can apply for a place in a student hall of residence or find private accommodation in Würzburg. Prices for housing are reasonable and range from 180 to 350 EUR per month for a single room. Information on housing can be found online at:
http://www.international.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/studying_in_wuerzburg/degree_programs_at_the_university_of_wuerzburg/before_arrival/living/