Master in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology
University of Helsinki
Key Information
Campus location
Helsinki, Finland
Languages
English, Finnish, Swedish
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
2 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
EUR 18,000 / per year *
Application deadline
Request Info
Earliest start date
Aug 2024
* for non-EU/EEA countries
Introduction
Why Are Microbes the Most Important Group of Organisms on Our Planet?
How to solve fundamental environmental problems? How is knowledge of microbiology applied in medicine and industry, or in food production? What research techniques are used to study viruses, bacteria and other microbes?
In the Master's Programme in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology (MMB), you find answers to these and many other important questions. You learn about the global significance of microbes as processors of life and the environment. You will gain the potential and the tools for the development of new innovations in microbial biotechnological applications.
Studying
In the Master's Programme in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, you get an understanding of the global significance of microbes as processors of life and the environment. You gain the potential and the tools for the development of new innovations in food or drug industry or in other biotechnological applications.
You learn about microbes and the biotechnological applications as well as what research techniques are used to study viruses, bacteria and other microbes. Your studies include topics like the application of microbiological knowledge, biotechnology and bioinformatics, functional principles of microbial cells and communities, research methods in microbiology and solving microbiological problems. You can modify the master’s degree programme for your own interests with elective subjects.
Students life
Student life and especially the student organisation culture is exceptionally rich and diverse in Finland. Also at the University of Helsinki, the student community is very active. More than 250 student organisations operate within the Student Union of the University of Helsinki (HYY), ranging from faculty and subject organisations to political and societal organisations, and from choirs and orchestras to sports and game clubs. Their activities include anniversary celebrations, academic dinner parties, cultural events, get-togethers and excursions.
As a student and member of the Student Union (HYY), you are entitled to many benefits and services. For example, affordable student housing, basic healthcare services, sports facilities and student-priced meals. You also get numerous discounts, for example on public transport fees across the country.
Admissions
Curriculum
The scope of the Master's Programme in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology is 120 credits (ECTS), to be completed in two academic years.
At least half of the study credits (60 of 120 credits) will be courses in microbiology and microbial biotechnology. By selecting electives and other study opportunities, you will be able to shape the study programme based on your interest towards many subject areas, such as the environment, food, viruses, fungi, health and microbial diseases, microbial biotechnology or microbial bioinformatics.
The key contents of the studies in microbiology and microbial biotechnology are:
- Research methods in microbiology, biotechnology and bioinformatics
- Application of microbiological knowledge
- Solving microbiological problems
- Critical, research-based scientific thinking
- Planning, implementation and reporting of microbiological and biotechnological research
- Functional principles of microbial cells and communities
- Development from research to product
- Leadership, entrepreneurship and patenting
- Other studies, through which you can adapt the degree towards your own interests
- Discovery of novel findings in the field of biology
Courses and teaching
There is intensive interaction between teachers and students in the Master’s Programme in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology. A variety of learning methods are used in the courses, including:
- Laboratory work, seminars, lectures
- Oral presentations
- Written reports (individual, paired, group)
- Independent reading
- Work practice, instruction in research groups, project courses
- Oral group exams, written exams, home essays
The language of instruction is mainly English. You can write exams and your thesis in Finnish, Swedish or English.
Master's thesis
The Master’s thesis is an integral part of your degree and accounts for 30 credits. The thesis is generally based on an experimental research project, which you can perform under the supervision of an experienced researcher.
During the thesis process, you train yourself in scientific thinking, identifying problems, constructing hypotheses, collecting material, working in the laboratory, analysing results and presenting the results logically, as well as putting your results into the context of current scientific views. You will write your thesis in the format of a scientific publication in which you critically discuss your results from the perspective of the relevant scientific field.
Gallery
Program Outcome
Why Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology?
Upon completing your degree, you will:
- Understand the global significance of microbes as remodelers and processors of life and the environment
- Understand the most important functions and molecular mechanisms of the major groups of microbes
- Understand the potential use of microbes in biotechnological applications, such as foodstuffs, drugs, and industrial processes
- Be able to evaluate the effects of changes in the environment on microbial communities and thus on the function of the biosphere
- Be able to assess the use of microbes in a variety of environments and situations
- Be able to evaluate ethical questions and the prerequisites of commercialisation related to the use of microbes and biotechnology
- Be aware of the most important pathogens and their virulence mechanisms
- Master the most important microbiological and biotechnological research methods, and be proficient in the interpretation and evaluation of research results
- Have the capability to plan and lead activities in microbiology and biotechnology
- Be able to disseminate relevant information about your topic in an international environment
As a graduate, you will be well prepared to continue further with postgraduate studies or proceed directly into working life. You can work in sectors like research and development, Surveillance/monitoring in healthcare, food and environment, administration and consultancy, business and management or teaching and education. Statistically, the situation for microbiologists proceeding to employment has been very favourable.
Scholarships and Funding
Our scholarship program is for students who are applying to the University of Helsinki. These scholarships are intended for excellent students from outside the EU/EEA, who wish to complete a Master's program at the University of Helsinki. Grants can be applied while applying to the University of Helsinki’s Master’s programs.
Career Opportunities
Upon graduating from the Master’s Programme in Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology, you will be well prepared to continue further with your studies or proceed directly to a career in working life. Statistically, the situation for microbiologists proceeding to employment has been very favourable.