Program Overview

Introduction to the International Master Program "Molecular Sciences - Spectroscopy and Simulation"

The International Master Program "Molecular Sciences - Spectroscopy and Simulation" (iMOS) is a research-oriented, interdisciplinary Master's program held in English. The program focuses on the molecular understanding of chemical and biochemical processes with a focus on modern laser spectroscopy and microscopy, computer simulation, and quantum chemistry.

Program Structure

• The program is designed to be completed in 4 semesters.
• The standard period of study is 4 semesters.
• The start of studies is in the winter term.
• The type of studies is Grundständig (undergraduate).
• The language of instruction is English.
• Admission is licence-free.

Scope and Curriculum

• The program scope is 120 CP (full-time).
• The curriculum includes:
  • 45 CP for lectures and exercises.
  • 45 CP for practical training.
  • 30 CP for the final thesis.
• Students undertake research studies in the areas of physical and theoretical chemistry.
• The first two semesters consist of lectures taught by instructors from the Faculties of Chemistry and Biochemistry, as well as the research consortia RESOLV, ICAMS, and PPT.

Mandatory and Elective Lectures

• Mandatory lectures in the first year include:
  • Dynamics and Simulation.
  • Concepts of Spectroscopy 1.
  • Concepts of Molecular Chemistry 1.
  • Electronic and Molecular Structure Theory.
  • Concepts of Spectroscopy 2.
  • Theoretical Spectroscopy.
• Elective lectures include:
  • Concepts of Quantum Mechanics.
  • Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics.
  • Biomolecular Simulation.
  • Concepts of Molecular Chemistry 2.
  • Biophysical Chemistry 2.
  • Scientific Programming Methods for Chemists.

International Course and Focal Point Practical

• During the second year, students focus on specific projects both locally and abroad.
• A 10-week practical in a local research group of the student's choice provides exposure to innovative research in the Ruhr area.
• The three-month international course takes students to a research group in a globally leading academic institution.

Research Topics

• Students have investigated a wide range of (bio)chemical systems, from the assignment of tunneling motions in small water clusters to single-point analysis on selected frames of a CPMD trajectory file.
• Recent projects include the acquisition of sum frequency generation (SFG) measurements of protein at air/water interface and the calculation of birefringence and dichroism effects induced by external and/or internal sources of magnetic field in chiral and achiral molecules.

Module Handbook and Examination Regulations

• The Module Handbook contains detailed curriculum information for current and prospective students.
• The Examination Regulations (EN), Prüfungsordnung (PO-1305), and Prüfungsordnung (AB-999) guide the program, with the German versions being binding.

Admission and Requirements

• The program is highly competitive and relies on skills in quantum mechanics, mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
• Basic knowledge of classical mechanics and thermodynamics/statistical mechanics is required.
• Required credits and prerequisite knowledge include:
  • 10 CP in Mathematics.
  • 8 CP in Theoretical Chemistry, Spectroscopic Techniques, Quantum Mechanics, and/or equivalent topics.
• Compatible degrees may include Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Biology/Biochemistry, or a related Engineering field.

Minimum Grade and Recognized Universities

• Grade equivalencies vary, but an average of at least 2.0 in the German rating system is recommended.
• For foreign equivalencies, an average of at least 3.0 in GPA-ratings or 70% in percentage-ratings is recommended.
• Recognized universities are typically top-ranking universities in the applicant's country.

Language Requirements

• The language of course instruction is English.
• Applicants must fulfill one of the following:
  • Completion of their first degree program in English.
  • TOEFL minimum score of 600 (paper-based), 250 (computer-based), or 100 (internet-based).
  • IELTS minimum score of 6.0.

Application Process

• Admissions are open from December 1 to June 15 every year for an October start date.
• The program has open admissions with the Faculty's own admission process.
• Applicants should submit Application 1, which will be reviewed by the admission committee.
• Upon approval, applicants will be requested to submit Application 2, which includes supporting documents.

Required Documents

• Application Form 2, completed and signed.
• 1 passport photo.
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Certified copy of high school certificate or equivalent school leaving certificate.
• Certified copy of qualifying academic degree (Bachelor's Degree Certificate).
• Certified copy of subjects and grades (Transcript).
• A personal statement describing motivation to apply for the program.
• Students from India, China, Mongolia, and/or Vietnam must provide the APS document.

FAQs - Admissions Process

• A certified copy is a copy of a document that has been affirmed to be a true copy by an authorized person or authority.
• The average time for an admissions decision is 3 weeks, starting with the receipt of Application 2.
• Funding may be available for top-qualified candidates.
• DAAD Scholarship applicants should contact the iMOS Office over a year ahead of time.