Computational Biology and Bioinformatics University of Göttingen

The main programme-specific courses are taught in English. Additionally, students have the option to join courses that are held in German.

The MSc programme in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics connects objectives of biological and computational sciences. Core fields of the programme are bioinformatics and systems biology, meaning the analysis and modelling of data in molecular biology and biochemistry, in particular from genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics. Computational methods will be supported via hands-on training in the wet lab. Graduates will have a strong biological background and will be able to understand and develop software for the handling and analysis of biological data.

New students should arrive in Göttingen in early September to attend the introductory and preparatory meetings. Lectures start in October.

For applicants who do not have EU citizenship or a Bachelor's degree from an EU country:
1 January to 15 February for the following winter semester

For applicants with EU citizenship or a Bachelor's degree from an EU country:
1 April to 15 May for the following winter semester

The programme structure can be found on the course website.

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No tuition fees

The fees are around 400 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket, which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as buses in Göttingen. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals are available at reduced prices at university canteens.

The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about 850 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age.

International students should note that it is not possible to study in Germany without sufficient financing.

For admission to our Master's programme in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, you need a BSc degree with a minimum of six semesters and 180 ECTS (European Credits); however, 30 ECTS can be handed in after admission. Your credits must contain either

• min. 50 ECTS in Biology (including Organic Chemistry) or Bioinformatics and min. 40 ECTS in Mathematics, Statistics, Informatics, Bioinformatics or Physics

OR

• Min. 30 ECTS in Biology or Bioinformatics and min. 60 ECTS in Mathematics, Statistics, Informatics, Bioinformatics or Physics.

English: Applicants who are not native English speakers or who do not hold an English degree must provide proof of proficiency in English, which may be

1. UNIcert®: minimum UNIcert® III certificate;
2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic): minimum band score of 7.0;
3. Test of English as a Foreign Language, internet-based test (TOEFL iBT): minimum score of 100 or minimum score of 95 and minimum speaking score of 25;
4. Cambridge English Qualification, minimum 180 points;
5. KMK foreign language certificates, minimum level C1;
6. Nulte certificates, minimum level C1;
7. PTE Academic, minimum 76 points;
8. telc English, minimum level C1;
9. Other accredited or standardised certificates may also be recognised after examination of their equivalence.

The test result must be less than six years old on the date the application is received.

Proof of advanced knowledge of the English language may also be provided by

1. at least two years of relevant study or professional experience in an English-speaking country within the last six years immediately preceding the application date, or
2. by the successful completion of at least two years of study in an English-language degree programme.

For applicants who do not have EU citizenship or a Bachelor's degree from an EU country:
1 January to 15 February for the following winter semester

For applicants with EU citizenship or a Bachelor's degree from an EU country:
1 April to 15 May for the following winter semester

Germany Scholarship (Deutschlandstipendium): https://uni-goettingen.de/en/218085.html

The university supports students in finding part-time jobs in local industries and businesses. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. They are announced on the following website: www.stellenwerk-goettingen.de

Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or visa.

Non-EU students are subject to special regulations. Some proficiency in German is an advantage to find a job. Non-EU students are permitted to work a maximum of 120 full days (240 half days) per year.

The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.

The Career Service of the university offers individual support for the job entry. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme.

The "Start Guides" project also offers assistance in developing and realising individual career perspectives in Germany.

If you are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The university supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts. Start-up support

The International Office provides a wide range of services for international students.

German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city during their first weeks.

An orientation week for new international students provides valuable information about Göttingen and the university.

Study Buddy Programme: part of the project Integration and Diversity at Göttingen University (InDiGU)

Foyer International: Meetings and activities for all students  

German courses during studies (free of charge)