Program Overview

Master's Programme in Biochemistry with Specialization in Protein Chemistry

The Master's programme in Biochemistry with Specialization in Protein Chemistry is designed to provide students with a detailed understanding of proteins, from their physical properties and structures to their behavior, interactions, and functions in complex environments.

Programme Overview

The programme is 120 ECTS and starts at the end of August each year. It consists of four obligatory courses for a total of 30 ECTS, 30 ECTS from a list of optional courses given by the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and an obligatory independent master thesis degree project comprising at least 30 ECTS.

Year 1

• Fall Semester:
  • Advanced Methods in Biochemistry, 7.5 ECTS
  • Integrative Structural Biochemistry, 7.5 ECTS
  • The Molecular Properties of Proteins, 7.5 ECTS
  • Cryo-EM for Structural Biochemistry, 7.5 ECTS
• Spring Semester:
  • Structure and Dynamics of Biological Membranes, 15 ECTS
  • Proteins in Eukaryotic Cells, 7.5 ECTS
  • Introduction to Data Analysis for Life Scientists, 7.5 ECTS

Year 2

• 60 ECTS independent degree project
• or 15 ECTS freely chosen courses and 45 ECTS independent degree project
• or 30 ECTS freely chosen courses and 30 ECTS independent degree project

Independent Project

The independent project is an opportunity for students to focus on research and study something they are really interested in. The project can be performed in a research group at Stockholm University, at another university, or at a research organization.

Eligibility and Selection

To be eligible for the programme, students need a Bachelor's degree in Natural Sciences or equivalent, including at least 60 ECTS in Chemistry, of which at least 15 ECTS should be in Biochemistry. The degree should also include an additional 30 ECTS in either chemistry, physics, or molecular life sciences. Knowledge equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6 or equivalent is also required.

Selection is based on the relevance of previous studies in relation to the programme and a motivation letter. No interview will be held.

Motivation Letter

As part of the application, students will be asked to provide a motivation letter in English, addressing their full name, email address, the name of the Master's programme they are applying to, a list of completed courses that count toward meeting the specific eligibility requirements, what inspired them to apply, lab experience, why they are a good candidate, what they hope to achieve with their degree, and what research questions interest them.

Tuition Fee

Applies to citizens from outside EU, EEA, or Switzerland. The first installment is 70,000 SEK, and the complete course is priced accordingly.

Career Opportunities

Many students use this programme as a stepping stone towards obtaining a PhD and an academic career. However, alumni from the programme have also landed jobs with top pharmaceutical and biotech firms.

Research Areas

The programme is surrounded by internationally recognized biochemistry researchers, including some of the people who choose the Nobel Prize winners. Students will have the opportunity to attend Nobel lectures and be part of a vibrant research community.

Study Abroad

The programme is structured to allow students to study abroad for one semester (the third). One of the exchange partners is the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which many students take advantage of for its great experience and focus on biomolecular science.