Curriculum M. Sc. Biochemistry

The Master's program in Biochemistry is an interdisciplinary full-time study program. The standard period of study is four semesters. The education is provided across multiple locations in Garching, Weihenstephan, the downtown campus including Klinikum rechts der Isar, as well as potentially in associated research institutions. The language of instruction is primarily German, however, many modules are taught in English.

In addition to some mandatory modules for all Biochemistry Master's students, there are further compulsory modules in two elective study focuses, one in chemistry and one in biology. The professionally complementary elective modules allow for a strong customization of individual study goals and qualifications. Further information, including the examination and study regulations, can be found on the central TUM website for the M.Sc. Biochemistry program.

Focus Area Selection

  • In the Master's program in Biochemistry, one chemical and one biological focus area are to be chosen. Each focus area consists of a focus-specific research internship, subject-appropriate lectures, and is supplemented with a thesis including an oral examination.
  • The choice of the combination of the biological and chemical focus areas must be submitted to the study office for approval.

  • Bioinformatics
  • Biophysics
  • Botany
  • Developmental Biology of Plants
  • Developmental Biology of Animals
  • Genetics (Plant Breeding)
  • Human Genetics
  • Immunology
  • Food Microbiology
  • Microbiology
  • Neurobiology
  • Oncology
  • Pathophysiology
  • Pharmacology & Toxicology
  • Physiology
  • Virology

  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Biological NMR Spectroscopy
  • Biophysical Chemistry
  • Industrial Biotechnology
  • Clinical Chemistry
  • Food Chemistry
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry
  • Protein Chemistry and Bioorganic Chemistry
  • Protein Engineering
  • Radiopharmacy
  • Chemical Engineering

Mandatory Modules Part 1 (Basic Examination)

  • Lecture
  • Type of examination: written exam

To module description CH0448 Biological Chemistry

  • Lecture
  • Type of examination: written exam

To module description CH0226 Molecular Medicine

  • Lab Course & Seminar
  • Type of examination: Laboratory performance & presentation

To module description CH0410 Physical Biochemistry and Lecture Seminar

  • Lecture
  • Examinations
  • Type of examination: Written exam

To module description CH0437 Cellular Biochemistry 2

Mandatory Modules Part 2

The following modules are completed within the chosen focus areas. The selection of focus areas should be made by the end of the 1st semester.

  • 8-week research internship with a biochemical focus
  • Type of examination: Laboratory performance

To module description CH0554 Research Internship Biochemistry 1

  • 6-week research internship with a biochemical focus
  • Type of examination: Laboratory performance

To module description CH0555 Research Internship Biochemistry 2

  • 4-week research internship with a chemical focus
  • Type of examination: Laboratory performance

To module description CH0510 Research Internship with Focus on Chemical Aspects

  • 4-week research internship with a biological focus
  • Type of examination: Laboratory performance

To module description CH0511 Research Internship with Focus on Biological Aspects

  • Term paper with a chemical focus
  • Type of examination: Oral exam

To module description CH0445 Self-study of Special Aspects of Chemistry

  • Term paper with a biological focus
  • Type of examination: Oral exam

To module description CH0451 Self-study of Special Aspects of Biology

  • Term paper
  • Excursion
  • Attendance at specialist lectures
  • Type of examination: Oral exam

To module description CH0556 Self-Study of Special Aspects of Biochemistry

  • Scientific thesis at a chair or research group
  • Can be registered starting from 75 CP

Elective Modules

  • 5 CP must be earned from each of the elective areas.
  • Elective Areas: Biological Focus, Chemical Focus, Natural Science Elective Area.
  • Additionally, 3 CP must be earned from general education content.