Genetics and Biology of Ageing and Regeneration University of Cologne

All courses are held in English (100%).

With demographic changes leading to a growing elderly population, there is a pressing need to address age-associated diseases. However, many causes and mechanisms of such diseases remain unclear today. As a result, the wide field of research into the ageing process has swiftly emerged to investigate mechanisms, prevention, and treatment of ageing and age-associated diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to educate students in this innovative and fast-growing area.

Our Master's programme in Genetics and Biology of Ageing and Regeneration combines theoretical and practical learning through lecture series, method-oriented seminars, and practical research projects.

You can learn not only about molecular mechanisms and processes governing the functions of cells and tissues in organisms but also about how their dysfunctions contribute to ageing and age-related diseases. Topics will also include strategies for prevention, clinical intervention, and potential treatment of age-related diseases. You will be taught and supervised by internationally renowned and experienced scientists from the fields of genetics and research into the ageing process.

The close collaboration with the CECAD Cluster of Excellence for Ageing Research and the Max-Planck-Institute for Biology of Ageing will offer you an extensive environment with a broad range of interdisciplinary research topics within the field of ageing research. Whether aspiring to pursue further doctoral studies or embark on a career in the life science industry, our Master’s programme will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your endeavours.

The application deadline for the winter semester is 15 July each year.
This deadline is applicable for all applicants (German, EU and non-EU applicants).

The Master's programme is an interdisciplinary study programme that focuses on basic and biomedical research-oriented training using state-of-the-art technologies.

Basic modules

The programme starts with a mandatory lecture and seminar to provide a detailed overview about genetics and the biological processes underlying ageing and regeneration, paving the way for a deep understanding of biological systems at the molecular level:

• Principles of Molecular Genetics, Development, and Ageing (Lecture)
• Modern Techniques and Approaches in Genetics, Ageing, and Development (Seminar)

In addition, students can choose two more lectures out of the following:

Computational Biology; Ecology, Evolution, and Environment; Molecular Plant and Microbial Sciences; Neuroscience; Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine.

Subject modules

Continuing, students can choose two advanced courses that not only enhance their theoretical foundation but also incorporate a significant practical component, enabling them to apply their acquired knowledge in practice.

Examples of the range of courses include:

• Post-translational Regulation of Proteins
• Mitochondria and Neurodegeneration
• Cell Death in Inflammation, Immunity, and Disease
• Molecular Mechanisms of Human Diseases
• Proteostasis in Health and Disease

Project modules

All students conduct two individual research projects in a lab of their choice. The duration is a minimum of seven weeks each, including six weeks of experimental work, followed by one week for preparing an oral presentation and a written report. Project modules can be undertaken at the University of Cologne, an external institution, or abroad.

Master thesis & defence

The Master's programme concludes with a written thesis lasting at least six months. These six months include the actual experimental research work as well as the writing of the thesis. After handing in the thesis, students have to defend their theses with an oral presentation in front of examiners. The Master's thesis can also be undertaken at the University of Cologne, an external institution, or abroad.

Students can complete their project modules or the Master's thesis at other universities abroad.

No tuition fees

The semester contribution amounts to approx. 305 EUR per semester. This fee includes a "semester ticket" that covers public transport in Germany ("Deutschlandsemesterticket").

The cost of living for students in Cologne are around 800 EUR to 1000 EUR, with rent comprising the largest portion (see accommodation).

More information about the cost of living in Germany, specifically Cologne

Formal requirements:

• Final Bachelor's grade of at least 2.7 (according to the German grading system)
• Proof of English language proficiency (see language requirements)

Subject-related requirements:

Submit proof of academic background in biology, biochemistry, biomedicine, or other related fields in the life or natural sciences:

1. Fundamentals in Biology (75 ECTS credit points):

• Min. 40 ECTS credit points in at least three of the following areas: Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Developmental / Regenerative Biology, Genetics, Immunology, Molecular Biology or Animal Physiology
• An additional min. 35 ECTS credit points in Biochemistry, Bioinformatics / Biomathematics / Computational Biology, Biophysics, Botany/Plant Science, Cell Biology, Developmental/Regenerative Biology, Genetics, Immunology, Virology, Evolutionary Biology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Neurobiology/Neuroscience, Physiology, and/or Zoology

2. Fundamentals in Practical Biology:

• Min. 30 ECTS credit points in practical/hands-on courses in the field(s) of Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Developmental/Regenerative Biology, Genetics, Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Physiology, and/or Neurobiology

3. Fundamentals in other Natural Sciences:

• Min. 10 ECTS credit points in the Fundamentals of Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Physical, and/or Theoretical Chemistry
• Min. 5 ECTS credit points in the Fundamentals of Mathematics, Statistics, and/or Physics

*Students can also apply if they have not yet finished their Bachelor's degree, as long as they have already attained at least 80% of their total credit points by the time of application and will complete their Bachelor's programme before the start of the Master's programme.

Non-native English speakers need to demonstrate upper-level B2 English proficiency, according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) by submitting either:

• TOEFL: Paper-based 580 / Computer-based 237 / Internet-based 93
• IELTS: 6.5 (level of each subcomponent at least 6.0)
• Cambridge English Qualifications: B2 First, Cambridge English Scale 175
• TOEIC: 460 (listening), 425 (reading) / 170 (writing), 175 (speaking)
• Evidence of having completed a high school or Bachelor's degree programme taught in English
• German University Entrance Qualification (Abiturzeugnis/Hochschulzugangsberechtigung), specifying at least 6 years of English classes

The application deadline for the winter semester is 15 July each year.
This deadline is applicable for all applicants (German, EU and non-EU applicants).

Master's students have the opportunity to apply for the Master Fellowship programme of the Cologne Graduate School of Ageing Research (CGA).

The Master Fellowship programme includes:

• Monthly financial support (currently 992 EUR)
• An employment contract for the duration of the Master thesis project
• Regular meetings with a chosen mentor of the CGA faculty
• Participation in various CGA events at an early career stage.

The Kölner Studierendenwerk operates 90 student dormitories with 5,000 spots for students from all of Cologne’s universities. Additionally, there is a range of private student dormitories operated by other institutions.

Please note that the rooms are highly sought after and in short supply. Therefore, applications to any of the aforementioned student dormitories must be submitted by the applicant as early as possible (three to six months prior to moving in).

Other options include renting a room in a shared apartment or renting your own apartment. Helpful information and links on how to find accommodation are provided on the university's website.

Rental prices:

• Student dormitory: 140 EUR to 360 EUR
• Shared apartment: 400 EUR to 550 EUR
• Own apartment: approx. from 600 EUR

At the beginning of the semester, there will be an introductory welcome event providing information about the programme structure, along with the opportunity to ask open questions.

Additionally, students can seek counselling and helpful advice from the International Office of the University of Cologne, the coordinators of the Master's programme, and the student council of the Department of Biology.

With more than 45,000 students, offering over 300 study programmes across six faculties, the University of Cologne is one of the largest universities in Germany. It is a modern university in the heart of Europe. Academic excellence, internationality, and a diverse range of curricula combine to foster a vibrant and inspiring environment for students, scientists, and scholars alike. Since its distinction within the scope of the 2012 German Excellence Initiative, the University of Cologne has been part of a select group of elite universities in Germany for seven years.

With its self-chosen core research theme "Biology of Health," the University of Cologne has established itself as a leading global research hub. It boasts a pioneering assembly of dedicated scientists and state-of-the-art research facilities focusing on ageing research in Life Sciences.

With over one million inhabitants, Cologne is the fourth largest city in Germany. Founded by the Romans over 2000 years ago, it is one of the oldest cities in Germany. Located in the heart of Europe next to the Rhine River, Cologne is a popular travel destination in Germany and Europe and is especially known for its impressive cathedral, the Dom.

Cologne is one of Europe's most important media hubs and is home to a variety of television and radio broadcasters. It is a vibrant city with numerous cultural opportunities, including a strong visual arts and cinema scene, theatre, opera, orchestra, jazz, and live music scene. Museums, concerts, and sports events abound. It is indeed a vibrant city, most famous for its globally renowned Carnival festivities.

Cologne integrates 300,000 residents from all over the world into its social environment. Despite its large size, the open and warm-hearted character of the locals creates a unique atmosphere of acceptance and tolerance. Cologne welcomes people regardless of their origin, religion or beliefs, age, disabilities, gender, or sexual orientation.