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English Language Master's Programme Biotechnology

Biotechnology is one of this century’s key technologies. It involves the use of biosystems to create applications for industry, agriculture, the environment and medicine. The distinguishing feature of this degree programme is the unique combination of the focal points of gene expression, protein production and biocatalysis, as well as the high number of practical laboratory courses. In addition, students benefit from excellent laboratory infrastructure and internationally renowned lecturers from the fields of biotechnology, molecular biology and chemistry.

Quick Facts

  • Duration of study: 4 semesters
  • ECTS credit points: 120
  • Academic degree: Diplom-Ingenieurin or Diplom-Ingenieur (Dipl.Ing. or DI), equivalent to the Master of Science (MSc)
  • Language of instruction: English

The Master's Programme

In the interdisciplinary NAWI Graz master’s degree programme Biotechnology, you will learn significantly more about the technological preparation of biosystems as well as the development and operation of biotechnological applications and processes.

You will learn working and analytical techniques in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, genetic engineering, enzymology and fermentation technology. In addition to the focal point of gene expression, protein production and biocatalysis, you will also learn the basics in the area of environmental and food biotechnology.

In practical laboratory courses, for example, students learn how to use process control, adjust a pH and scale-up a fermentation process. You will be supported by an experienced team and will have access to optimal laboratory infrastructure with state-of-the-art fermentation plants of various sizes (pilot plants).

Focus Areas

You will acquire basic knowledge in the subject in the following compulsory modules:

  • Molecular Biotechnology and Bioinformatics: You will learn working and analytical techniques of cell, protein and metabolic engineering and become familiar with the use of methods for the computer-aided analysis of DNA and protein sequences.
  • Bioprocess Technology: You will acquire knowledge about the development and optimisation of modern bioprocesses.
  • Environmental and Food Biotechnology: You will become familiar with biotechnological processes used for the production of food and animal feed, as well as microbial and enzymatic processes applied in these areas.
  • Laboratory Project Biotechnology: You will carry out experimental laboratory work under the supervision of experienced scientists.

In addition, you can choose individual focal points in the following elective modules:

  • Enzyme and Protein Technology
  • Systems and Synthetic Biotechnology
  • Bioprocess Engineering
  • Environmental Biotechnology
  • Food Biotechnology

Biotechnology is a key technology of the 21st century with a focus on applications in industry, agriculture, the environment and medicine. The interdisciplinary curriculum, positioned at the interface of basic and applied research, promotes problem solving capacities to educate and train bio-engineers prepared to tackle the challenges of the future.

Mario Klimacek, Dean of Studies

Collaborations and Networks

The close cooperation with acib (Austrian Research Centre of Industrial Biotechnology) enables students to establish firm contacts with potential employers and carry out master's thesis work with industrial partners. acib currently is constructing a network of about 300 partners in the field of industrial biotechnology.

In addition, firmly established networks with industrial partners in the pharmaceutical sector (e.g. Bayer Pharma AG, Sandoz GmbH, La Roche), as well as in the field of green chemistry (e.g. BASF SE) offers the students a good insight into practical applications.

Admission

The prerequisite for admission is a completed bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject (see curriculum).

Additionally, you need to provide evidence of competence in the English language.

1. Admission Procedure

Summer Semester 2024

There will be no admission procedure. You can go directly to the next step (2. Admission).

Academic Year 2024/25

Registration for the admission procedure: 15 December 2023 to 15 March 2024

Details on the admission procedure

2. Admission

If you have already been admitted to a degree programme at TU Graz, or have studied at TU Graz before, please come to the Registrar's Office in person to complete your admission during the admission period.

Information and Advice

Contact studynoSpam@tugraz.at

Career Prospects

Professional Fields

Biotechnologists work in both the private sector (biotech, chemical and pharmaceutical industries, consulting) and the public sector (research and test facilities, certification authorities, quality management, interest groups).

The employment opportunities are diverse. They range from careers in scientific research and development to the planning, control and monitoring of biotechnological processes and applications and on to the development of processes for the production of biological substances. Biotechnologists are active in the following areas:

  • in industrial biotechnology
  • in chemical production with biocatalytic processes
  • in pharmaceutical research
  • in food technology
  • in environmental biotechnology
  • in agricultural research
  • in relevant university and non-university research institutions
  • with authorities or institutions in the public sector

Graduates apply their knowledge practically, for example, as follows:

  • in industry in the field of green chemistry, to make chemical processes more environmentally friendly.
  • in the pharmaceutical industry in the area of biologicals development, i.e. to develop genetically engineered drugs that are used in cancer therapy, among other things.