Master of Biology
Master of Science
Education
The Master of Biology programme covers many aspects of modern biology, ranging from the molecular level to the levels of population and community. Scientific skills such as problem solving, independent thinking and communication are particularly emphasised. The programme is designed to provide students with a solid theoretical foundation and with the techniques needed to carry out fundamental and applied research. It aims to train qualified research biologists capable of conducting fundamental biological research at an international level.The Master of Biology is an initial Master's programme. You can follow this programme on a full-time or part-time basis.
Profile
Applicants must hold an academic Bachelor's degree and be familiar with the subjects and courses listed below. Within the programme, 18 credits are allotted for filling possible gaps in students' basic knowledge.Basic Sciences: at least 30 credits
Chemistry 8
Statistics 4
Mathematics 5
Physics 8
Bio-Organic Chemistry 6
Fundamental Biology: at least 30 credits
Cell Biology and Biochemistry 8
Animal, Plant or General Biology 8
Animal Diversity 8
Plant Diversity 6
Advanced Biology: at least 30 credits
Microbiology 6
Ecology 8
Genetics and Molecular Biology 5
Evolutionary Biology or Developmental Biology 5
Animal or Plant Physiology 6
For specific admission requirements, click on the desired programme in the 'Choose your courses of study' section.
Objectives
The objective of this programme is to train students as biologists capable of working in a research environment in fundamental biological sciences at an international level.At the end of his/her studies, the student will have acquired:
- a thorough understanding of biology in all of its aspects, as well as more detailed, specific knowledge in a specialised area;
- the knowledge and the know-how to practice biology at a modern and scientifically funded level;
- the skills to keep pace with the relevant changes in his/her area of research;
- a team-player mentality;
- the skills to present insights and results;
- the skills to follow and support the sociological role of biology.
After graduation
As a holder of a Master's degree in biology, you can pursue a research career at a university, an agro-industrial, pharmaceutical or biotech company, an environmental conservation organisation or an NGO. Graduates also qualify for positions as scientific advisers at banks or private investment firms, as policy officers in governmental or public administration, as science communication specialists, scientific journalists, or as science teachers.Information sessions
KU Leuven organises a Verderstudeerbeurs each spring. In addition, faculties also organise information sessions for many of their bridging and graduate programmes.All information sessions for (future) Master's students
Spotlight
The Department of Biology consists of four divisions and conducts research activities ranging from molecular and physiological research at the level of cells and organisms to ecological research into populations, communities, and ecosystems. Our internationally renowned research is embedded in well-established collaborations with other universities, research institutes, and companies across the world. Although the primary goal of this research is to obtain insight into patterns and processes at different levels of biological organisation and to understand the basis and the evolution of mechanisms that allow organisms to adapt to their continuously changing environment, the knowledge gained often leads to applications with significant economic or societal benefits.Contact
Faculty of ScienceProgramme director
Prof. dr. J. Vanden Broeck
Tel. +31 16 32 39 78 or +32 16 32 24 60
jozef.vandenbroeck@bio.kuleuven.be
Administrative Office
Geel Huis
Kasteelpark Arenberg 11 bus 2100
3001 HEVERLEE
tel. + 32 16 32 14 01
info@wet.kuleuven.be
General information
Study Advice Service
Naamsestraat 80 box 5415
3000 LEUVEN, Belgium
To contact us please complete the contact form on our website.
