Plant Science

The MSc in Plant Science at the University of Basel offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of plant biology, encompassing a wide range of disciplines including plant physiology, ecology, genetics, and molecular biology. This program is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for advanced research and development in plant sciences. Students will have the opportunity to study the fundamental processes that govern plant growth, development, and adaptation, as well as to investigate the complex interactions between plants and their environment. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating latest technologies such as genomics, bioinformatics, and imaging techniques to understand plant function at various levels. Through coursework, laboratory work, field studies, and thesis research, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving abilities applicable to sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, and biotechnology. The program also emphasizes innovative research methods and encourages students to participate in current projects, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Graduates of this MSc will be well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, environmental consultancy, agricultural industries, or pursue further doctoral studies. The University of Basel's Plant Science program benefits from state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty with international reputations, and strong partnerships with industry and research organizations. This facilitates a rich educational experience that combines rigorous scientific training with practical exposure, preparing students to address pressing global challenges related to plant health, food security, and environmental sustainability. Whether you aim to contribute to scientific advancement or applied solutions, the MSc in Plant Science at Basel provides a solid foundation and a stimulating environment to achieve your academic and professional goals.

The core of the program is the Master's Thesis, in which you participate actively with your own individual research project, in the current research efforts of a team of plant scientists. You will combine your practical research efforts with courses designed to broaden your knowledge in life sciences and ecology. With a M Sc degree in Plant Science, you will have acquired cutting-edge research capabilities in your chosen field of specialization, as well as broad general knowledge in plant biology. This will enable you to enter a PhD program in all areas of biology, and to grasp opportunities in the agro-, pharma- and biotech-industries as well as in public research units and private enterprises in the domains of ecology and life sciences.

Main topics include:

• Physiological plant ecology: Plant and ecosystem water relations – carbon balance and plant growth – biodiversity and ecosystem services – stable isotope biogeochemistry – sustainable land use.
• Plant-microbe interactions: Innate immunity in plants – microbial ecology in the soil and rhizosphere – mycorrhizal symbiosis.
• Genetic and epigenetic regulation in plants: Plant hormones – transcriptional and post­transcriptional silencing – epigenetics and plant development.

Course structure

The Master of Science degree is a postgraduate degree that requires a successfully completed Bachelor’s program (B Sc in biology or equivalent). The program awards 90 ECTS credits in total. The Master’s degree program Plant Science is a so-called mono-course consisting of only one core subject. Supervised practical work over the course of one year constitutes the core of the studies. One ECTS credit point roughly equals 30 hours of studying.

Combination of subjects

The degree programs at the Faculty of Science are generally mono-courses with the possible addition of an in-depth subject and an elective subject. The Master’s degree program Plant Science does include an elective subject; however, no other subjects are required.

Career opportunities

After successfully completing their Master degree the graduates can study further for a doctoral qualification or follow a profession in all fields of life sciences. Biology is a subject that covers many disciplines and the career opportunities include research and related activities in the fields of medicine, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. The practical advantages of the subject are found not only in basic research but also, increasingly, in business, society and politics. Numerous jobs are on offer to biology graduates, within the university and also in private industry, government service, schools and organizations, be it as researchers, communicators, teachers or advisors. For these reasons, biology can rightly be considered as this century's key science.

The following degree allows for direct admission to the Master's degree program Plant Science: Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology from the University of Basel. Other Swiss or foreign degrees from an education institution recognized by the University of Basel have to be approved by the examination commission of the Faculty of Science. 

Application under http://www.unibas.ch/application; the application fee amounts to CHF 100.-. Application deadline for the fall semester is April 30, for the spring semester the deadline ends November 30. 

The University of Basel offers a comprehensive overview of financing options for students enrolled in the Plant Science degree program. As a respected institution committed to accessible education, Basel provides various funding opportunities to support both domestic and international students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for the Plant Science program are competitive and are structured to ensure affordability for a diverse student body. International students are often eligible for scholarships, grants, and financial aid packages designed to offset costs and promote academic excellence. The university also collaborates with external organizations to facilitate additional funding sources such as research grants, fellowship programs, and sponsorships tailored to students pursuing scientific research in plant biology and related fields.

Students are encouraged to explore departmental scholarships specific to Plant Science, which recognize academic merit and research potential. Furthermore, the university offers guidance on obtaining federal and regional financial assistance, including information on applying for student loans where applicable. Basel's financial support services provide comprehensive counseling to help students navigate the application process for various funding opportunities, ensuring they can focus on their studies without undue financial stress. Additionally, many students engage in part-time work or research assistantships within the university that not only offer monetary compensation but also valuable professional experience in their field.

The university also promotes international mobility through exchange programs that include financial support, allowing students to gain global exposure while managing costs effectively. Overall, the University of Basel's approach to financing studies emphasizes accessibility, diversity, and support through a multifaceted system of scholarships, aid programs, and work opportunities, enabling students to pursue their passion for Plant Science with financial confidence and stability.

The University of Basel currently collects CHF 850 in tuition fees per semester, along with CHF 10 for the student body.

Please note that there are also costs for books and, of course, your personal living expenses. The following list provides a general indication of monthly living expenses if you are not living at home with your family.

Rent (room, shared living space, student dormitory)
Minimum: CHF 400; Average: CHF 600

Food, household, clothing
Minimum: CHF 450; Average: CHF 600

Insurance/healthcare
Minimum: CHF 200; Average: CHF 300

Transportation
Minimum: CHF 60; Average: CHF 90

Learning materials
Minimum: CHF 100; Average: CHF 150

Tuition Fees
CHF 140

Recreation/culture
Minimum: CHF 150; Average: CHF 220

Total
Minimum: CHF 1500; Average: CHF 2100