Master of Science in Chemistry TU Dortmund University

It is possible to study the Master's degree programme in Chemistry in English. In addition, some elective courses can be taken in the German language.

Students can choose to take their examinations and write the Master's thesis in either language.

Students of the Master's degree programme in Chemistry can choose between two major fields of study. Molecules and Materials mainly comprises courses in inorganic and organic chemistry. Experiment and Theory, on the other hand, focuses on courses in physical, theoretical, and industrial chemistry. Selected courses from the respective complementary major must also be taken. Courses in analytical chemistry are also offered, as summarised in the book of modules. In addition to compulsory elective lectures and laboratory courses, students will conduct a research practical in one of the sub-fields within their chosen major. Through the final Master's thesis in this same field, students will demonstrate their ability to work independently in science.

If students are unable to relocate in time (e.g. due to a missing visa), they will not be removed from the programme. All courses are taught on campus, but it is possible to learn the content of the lectures from the literature and lecture materials, and to attend examinations at a later point.

The official programme duration is four semesters. However, international students may wish to allow for one extra semester, as it often takes time to adjust to a new country and the Master's degree programme.

Non-EU/EEA nationals with a degree from a foreign university:

• winter semester: until 15 July
• summer semester: until 15 January

EU/EEA nationals with a foreign degree or non-EU applicants with an undergraduate degree from an EU/EEA country:

• Application is possible the whole year.

Please see the website of the International Office for more details about the application and enrolment process.

For specific questions about application, admission, and enrolment, you can contact the Admissions & Enrolment Office and check the website of the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology.

The Master's degree programme in Chemistry consists of 11 compulsory elective lecture modules, four advanced compulsory elective laboratory courses, one research project, and the Master's thesis (including its defence).

The compulsory elective lectures can be chosen from the examination subjects of inorganic, organic, physical/theoretical, and industrial chemistry as well as from various other natural sciences and additional courses in accordance with the regulations.

Studying abroad for one or two semesters is possible. Due to the structure of the degree programme, which consists mainly of compulsory elective courses, academic achievements from studies abroad can readily be recognised.

Research laboratory courses are integrated in the degree programme.

No tuition fees

The semester contribution amounts to approx. 300 EUR (e.g. for summer semester 2025) and includes, for example, a public transport ticket. You can find more details about the semester contribution on the website.

An overview of the approximate cost of living in Dortmund per semester can be found on the website of the university.

Admission to the Master's degree programme is only possible if the Bachelor's degree programme is comparable to the Bachelor's degree programme in Chemistry at TU Dortmund University. An application for admission must be submitted to verify this equivalence.

A German grade of at least 3.2 is required for admission to the Master's degree programme (on a scale from 1.0 = best to 4.0 = minimum pass).

Proof of English language proficiency according to level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is required.

Proof can be provided through:

• a certificate of a university entrance qualification from Germany
• an internationally recognised language certificate (for example, TOEFL or IELTS) or a comparable certificate

• attendance at an English-speaking school for at least one year

• English being the applicant’s native language

• a degree (in accordance with section 4, subsection 1 of the examination regulations) from an English-language degree programme

Proof of German language proficiency is not required.

Non-EU/EEA nationals with a degree from a foreign university:

• winter semester: until 15 July
• summer semester: until 15 January

EU/EEA nationals with a foreign degree or non-EU applicants with an undergraduate degree from an EU/EEA country:

• Application is possible the whole year.

Please see the website of the International Office for more details about the application and enrolment process.

For specific questions about application, admission, and enrolment, you can contact the Admissions & Enrolment Office and check the website of the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology.

No

International students can work part time, for example as a student or scientific assistant. More details about opportunities and the permitted number of working hours can be found on the website of TU Dortmund University.

Student dormitories: The Studierendenwerk Dortmund allocates over 2,400 places in ten residential complexes in Dortmund and four residential complexes in the surrounding region – ranging from single rooms to four-person shared flats. Since the demand is very high, early application is recommended.

If you are unable to find a place in a dormitory, you can look for rooms in shared flats or apartments on real estate platforms and housing exchanges online, as well as in daily newspapers.

Further information regarding accommodation can be found on the website.

The International Office provides information about starting a career in Germany on their website.

The International Office at TU Dortmund University offers a wide range of support and advice during your studies. Please have a look at the website to find out about formalities, finances and employment, accommodation, and many other topics. 

Each winter semester, there is a welcome event called Come2Campus for all international first-year students. The latest information about the event can be found online.

Get active on campus right from the start of your studies: become part of the international TU community. You can find an overview of various groups and clubs as well as music and sporting activities here.