Program Overview

Master of Science in Biological Chemistry

The MSc programme in Biological Chemistry integrates a One Health perspective and focuses on important areas of human, organism, and ecosystem health from the organismal to the molecular and cellular level.

About the Programme

Our world is facing major challenges, and sustainable solutions will be central to our future development. This programme provides a deeper understanding of the limitations and opportunities that lie within the world of biology.

• In the first year, students receive a solid foundation in core courses that prepare them for the second year, which consists of a nine-month real research project.
• During the research project, students can choose to work in one of the laboratories at the University of Stavanger, with the public sector, or in the private sector.
• By the end of the programme, students will have acquired practical and theoretical skills in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and protein biochemistry.
• Students will also gain experience with many analytical techniques and research methods.
• Furthermore, students will develop skills in presenting scientific results.

Duration and Language of Instruction

• Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
• Language of instruction: English
• ECTS credits: 120
• Start of studies: August every year

Career Prospects

Graduates can qualify for work in various research and industrial companies, within a wide range of positions, including:

• Public and private research institutions
• Laboratories
• Hospitals
• Aquaculture
• Oil industry
• Food processing
• Academic institutions
• Consulting services

Further Education

Graduates can qualify for admission to the PhD programme in Science and Technology with relevant specialisation at the University of Stavanger.

Learning Outcomes

After completing the masters programme in Biological Chemistry, students shall have acquired the following learning outcomes, in terms of knowledge, skills, and general competences:

• K1: Advanced knowledge within the basic areas in biological chemistry, and specialized knowledge within a focused area through working with the thesis.
• K2: Broad knowledge of the fields scientific and instrumental methods and theories and can apply expertise with respect to new scientific challenges and challenges within the subject area.
• K3: Ability to use databases and search tools/engines to obtain relevant information about a subject, technique, or problem within the field.
• S1: Ability to conduct and present a larger scientific project within the field.
• S2: Ability to work independently in the laboratory, use standard laboratory equipment, modern instrumentation, and classical techniques to conduct experiments.
• S3: Knowledge of timely laboratory techniques and ability to apply them.
• S4: Understanding of the aim of various analytical methods, ability to conduct experiments, and document and analyse results.
• S5: Knowledge of appropriate procedures for keeping healthy and secure conditions in a laboratory.
• S6: Ability to communicate research results both orally and in written form in a precise way using scientific terminology.
• G1: General competence/expertise within biochemistry/biotechnology/bioinformatics/molecular biology/biomedical sciences, and how environmental factors influence organisms and their physiology.
• G2: Ability to reflect over central ethical and scientific issues in relation to their own and others work.
• G3: Ability to develop new competence/expertise within the fields subject areas and contribute to innovation processes within these areas.

Study Plan and Courses

• Compulsory courses:
  • Molecular Therapy (BIO520)
  • Protein Design (BIO580)
  • Instrumental Analysis (MLJ540)
  • Master's Thesis in Biological Chemistry (BIOMAS)
• Electives or exchange studies:
  • Bioinformatics (BIO510)
  • Advanced Cell Biology (BIO515)
  • Sustainable Future Foods (BIO600)
  • Environmental Biotechnology and Bioprocessmodeling (MLJ640)

Academic Requirements

• A bachelors degree within one of the following disciplines is required: Biological Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Chemistry.
• The degree must include at least 90 ECTS credits in chemistry and molecular biology/biology, and 10 ECTS credits in mathematics/statistics/calculus.
• Admission to this master's programme requires a minimum grade average comparable to a Norwegian C (according to ECTS Standards) in the bachelor's degree.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees apply to non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.

Student Exchange

Students can go on a study abroad experience during the 2nd semester of the master's programme in Biological Chemistry. The University of Stavanger has partnerships with various universities worldwide, including:

• Ghent University (Belgium)
• Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology (Japan)
• University of Twente (Netherlands)
• University of Otago (New Zealand)
• Carl von Ossietzky University Oldenburg (Germany)
• University of Ulm (Germany)
• San Diego State University (USA)