Program Overview

Master in Biochemistry and Biotechnology

The Master in Biochemistry and Biotechnology is a 2-year full-time program (120 credits) taught in Dutch at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences, located on the Drie Eiken Campus.

Program Overview

This program provides students with the latest techniques in biochemistry and biotechnology. The general education components cover the analysis of genetic information and proteins, as well as the application of biotechnological methods. Additionally, students learn to address bio-ethical questions, as science cannot be separated from society and its responsibilities.

Curriculum Structure

The program includes lectures, work colleges, and practical sessions where theory comes to life. Students learn to perform scientific assignments and experiments independently and in groups.

Specialization Options

Students can personalize their study program through elective courses. There are three types of elective courses that can be combined:

• Focus on Biotechnology: Applying technical principles to biological and medical problems. This includes computation gene development, chemo-informatics, or bio-electric cell biology.
  • In the first master's year, students delve into computational drug development, chemo-informatics, or bio-electric cell biology.
• Focus on Management: Equipping students with the knowledge and skills to work as biochemical scientists in the middle or top management of biotech companies, bioscientific institutions, and government agencies, or to start their own business.
  • In the first master's year, the focus is on the organization, communication, and financial or legal aspects of a company.
  • In the second master's year, innovation, process management, and quality assurance are covered.
• Focus on Research: For those aiming for a scientific career or a career in research, these elective courses delve deeper into recent developments and research methods within biochemistry and biotechnology.
  • In the first master's year, students can choose specialized courses in immunology, epidemiology, bio-informatics, molecular mechanisms, or proteome analysis.
  • In the second master's year, students can choose a follow-up module of Laboratory Animal Science: Fish or Rodents, receiving the Felasa C certificate, which allows them to conduct research across Europe. Alternatively, they can deepen their knowledge in neurosciences, cell biology, or add an international component to their program.

Master's Thesis, Research Project, and Internship

The culmination of the program is the master's thesis, a written dissertation on research conducted on a topic of interest. Additionally, students undertake a research project that includes an internship. The internship takes place in a laboratory of the University of Antwerp or another university, a scientific institution, or a company, chosen in consultation with the Education Committee. The goal of the internship is to perfect practical laboratory skills and complete scientific knowledge of the used technologies.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, students must meet specific admission requirements, which are detailed on the university's website.

Conclusion

The Master in Biochemistry and Biotechnology at the University of Antwerp offers a comprehensive and specialized education in biochemistry and biotechnology, preparing students for a variety of careers in research, industry, and academia. With its strong focus on practical skills, research, and specialization options, this program equips students with the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in their chosen field.