Natural Products & Drug Chemistry University of Bayreuth

Language of instruction: English

Profile

The Master's programme in Natural Products & Drug Chemistry focuses on basic research and its application. Of particular interest is the synthesis of low-molecular weight natural products and drugs (ligands) as well as their interaction with macromolecular targets. A prerequisite for enrolment in the programme is an initial degree (Bachelor of Science) in chemistry, biochemistry or an equivalent degree with chemistry as the main subject.

Structure and content

The students will be trained in all aspects of modern organic synthesis, both in theory and in practical courses. They will also learn about current methods used in the analysis, characterisation and evaluation of bioactive molecules. The University of Bayreuth provides excellent laboratory facilities and instrumentation. Students participate early on in current research projects of the different groups as part of lab rotations.

Career prospects

Graduates are ideally qualified for positions in the classical areas of chemistry and for interdisciplinary career fields in the life sciences, agricultural sciences and health sciences. Large and medium-sized companies as well as universities and research institutes offer attractive career prospects in these future fields. After completing a doctorate, graduates have access to interesting management positions.

1 March to 15 June (for winter semester)
1 September to 15 January (for summer semester)

Programme Outline

The two-year Master’s programme in Natural Products & Drug Chemistry focuses on acquiring skills in the organic synthesis and analysis of natural products with biological activity. There is a balanced mixture of lectures and practical hands-on time in the laboratories covering topics from high molecular weight (biochemical) compounds to small molecules. Lab courses are organised in groups as well as on an individual basis for in-depth research topics.

No tuition fees

In Bayreuth, students do not have to pay any tuition fees.

They pay a semester contribution. It covers your contributions to student services and the student government. Attending the University of Bayreuth (which combines the campus in Bayreuth and our Faculty VII located in Kulmbach) includes a "semester ticket" that allows you to use public transportation in the region. The semester contribution is 163.04 EUR per semester.

The costs of living in Germany, e.g. living, food, clothing, and activities, are about average compared to other European countries. The city of Bayreuth, compared to other large German cities (Munich, Berlin, Hamburg), offers a uniquely attractive combination: low cost of living, affordable housing, and a high quality of life. This makes Bayreuth especially appealing to students, young professionals and families. Whether it's outdoor sports in the nearby Fichtelgebirge, cultural highlights like the world-famous Festival, or the rich culinary scene – the city offers a rich variety of experiences right at your doorstep. 

Bayreuth combines affordability with vibrancy – making it easy to study, live and enjoy life to the fullest.

Here is an example: https://www.gamechanger-campus.de/en/cost-of-living.

Qualification

A completed course of study in the Bachelor's degree programmes in Chemistry or Polymer & Colloid Chemistry or Biochemistry or Sustainable Chemistry & Energy or Physics or Materials Science & Engineering or Biology or Food & Health Sciences at the University of Bayreuth or a teaching programme with Chemistry as a major subject at the University of Bayreuth or an equivalent degree

Equivalency

The determination of the equivalency of the completed Bachelor's degree is the responsibility of the board of examiners and will only be bindingly examined within the framework of the application. Therefore, no advance information is possible. Equivalent degrees are specified in § 2 paragraph one, point one of the Examination Regulations.

Aptitude Assessment Process

The prerequisite for admission to the degree programme is passing the aptitude assessment process (see Examination Regulations, Annex 3), which includes an assessment of qualifications and, if applicable, an aptitude interview.

Applying without a degree certificate

An application is already possible before completion of the previous Bachelor's degree, but a total of at least 135 credits must have been completed.

Language proficiency

ENGLISH: level B2 
GERMAN: level A1 (Applicants must provide proof of basic German language skills (CEFR Level A1) within one year after enrolment.)

Special conditions

Admission subject to conditions is possible; conditions may comprise a maximum of 30 credits (see Examination Regulations § 2, paragraph two).

ENGLISH: level B2
GERMAN: level A1: Applicants must provide proof of basic German language skills (CEFR Level A1) within one year of enrolment.

1 March to 15 June (for winter semester)
1 September to 15 January (for summer semester)

Scholarships for international students: International students and doctoral researchers have the opportunity to apply for a study grant at the International Office. Limited funding from the State of Bavaria and the DAAD is available for this purpose. The application deadline for the winter semester is 31 August and for the summer semester 28 February. All grants can be awarded for up to two semesters.

Unfortunately, first-semester students cannot be funded, i.e. applications cannot be submitted until the second semester of study for funding starting in the third semester of study. Above all, academic achievements from the previous semester are decisive for the evaluation of the application.

There are many ways for international students to earn money while they study, but there are some restrictions. For more detailed information, please visit the DAAD website.

The University of Bayreuth’s Career Services team provides a central interface between student and professional life. The team offers guidance and support to students of all subjects with regard to starting their careers.

Accommodation for students
Bayreuth and Kulmbach have a number of student dormitories (both private dormitories and dormitories offered by the Association for Student Affairs) and a vast array of private rooms available. Under no circumstances should you assume that you will be assigned a room in the student dormitories! You will need to actively search for a room on your own – either in a private dormitory or on the private market.

More information regarding accommodation for students is available here: https://www.gamechanger-campus.de/en/accommodation. Please also read the DAAD’s information.

Accommodation for international guests
All other international guests are requested to register via the Welcome Services Database (WelSe).

Accommodation for short visits
For short visits, we recommend searching for accommodation on Airbnb. In addition, a limited number of apartments are available in the Alexander von Humboldt Guest House.

For in between: youth hostels

If you can not find a long-term accommodation from the start, you could look for a living space at the youth hostels directly next to our campus.

https://www.jugendherberge.de/en/youth-hostels/bayreuth/