About the degree program
In recent years, biotechnology has emerged as a key technology for the future. Through innovative medical compounds, new diagnostic procedures, and sustainable production methods, it contributes to solving global challenges. The Bachelor’s program in Molecular Biotechnology at Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences provides you with a deep understanding of the interplay between the natural sciences and process engineering.
Comprehensive Training for a Wide Range of Career Paths
In this interdisciplinary program, you will gain in-depth knowledge in the following areas:
- Genetics and molecular biology as the foundation of modern biotechnological processes
- Cell biology and immunology for understanding biological systems
- Biochemistry and bioanalytics for researching biochemical processes
- Microbiology for the utilization of microbial metabolic capabilities
- Bioprocess engineering for the development and optimization of biotechnological production processes
Our teaching concept deliberately imparts a broad range of foundational knowledge to create a solid basis for launching a career in the highly diverse subdisciplines of biotechnology. In addition to the fundamentals of the natural sciences, the program also covers technical, organizational, and legal aspects—such as biosafety and bioethics—which are essential for acting responsibly in this innovative field.
Study details
The most important facts at a glance:
| faculty: | Natural and Environmental Sciences |
| Location: | Zittau |
| Degree: | Bachelor of Science |
| Standard duration of study: | 7 semesters |
| ECTS credits: | 210 |
| Language of instruction: | German |
| Enrolment for: | Winter semester |
| Application period: May 1 through September 30 | Start of studies: October |
| Admission restrictions: | No admission restrictions (no NC) Details |
| No prerequisite internship | Student Advising |
| Accreditation status: | Accredited |
Course of study
Your seven-semester program is structured systematically and takes you from the fundamentals of the natural sciences to specific biotechnological applications. In the first few semesters, you’ll gain a solid foundation in mathematics, physics, chemistry, and biology, which will serve as the scientific basis for your further studies. At the same time, you’ll familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of biotechnology and computer science and develop your English skills for international scientific exchange.
Starting in the third semester, you’ll deepen your knowledge in core biotechnology subjects such as genetic technology, bioanalytics, and process engineering. You’ll learn how molecular biology methods are applied in practice and how biotechnological production processes can be designed. In the fourth and fifth semesters, you’ll focus intensively on cell biology, virology, immunology, and pharmaceutical biotechnology, while at the same time being able to set your own individual areas of focus through required-elective modules.
The final two semesters offer you the opportunity to apply your knowledge in a practical setting. You’ll gain experience in scientific research and the design of biotechnology facilities. Through two practical modules, you’ll gain valuable experience at research institutions or companies before completing your degree with a Bachelor’s thesis, in which you’ll conduct scientific research on a topic of your choice.
- Applied computer science
- Mathematics - Fundamentals
- General Biology
- General and Inorganic Chemistry for Life Sciences
- English for Life Sciences
- Fundamentals of Biotechnology
- Genetics/Molecular Biology
- General Microbiology
- Mathematics for natural sciences
- Fundamentals of Analytical Chemistry
- Organic chemistry for life sciences
- Physics as the basis of natural and environmental sciences
- Genetic technology
- Bioanalytics
- Biostatistics
- General process engineering
- Fundamentals of physical chemistry for life sciences
- Interdisciplinary skills (compulsory elective modules)
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
- Virology
- Bioreaction Engineering/Bioreactors
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
- Subject-Specific Competencies I (Elective Modules)
- Immunology
- Enzymology
- Applied Microbiology/Upstream Processing
- Bioprocess Engineering
- Downstream Processing
- Subject-Specific Competencies II (Elective-Required Modules)
- Biological safety/bioethics
- Bioinformatics with exercises
- Methods of scientific work/literature seminar
- Biotechnological plants
- Practical module I
- Final Module (Bachelor's Thesis and Defense)
- Practical Module II
Career opportunities
Professional areas where you can get started
Medical drug production
You will develop and optimize processes for the production of pharmaceutical proteins and antibodies. You will monitor biotechnological production processes and ensure their quality. With your expertise in molecular biology and process engineering, you will contribute to the development of innovative therapies and help to produce life-saving drugs more efficiently.
Bioanalysis and Diagnostics
You will analyze biological samples using state-of-the-art molecular biology methods. You will develop and validate new testing procedures for medical diagnostics. With your expertise in biochemical and genetic analysis methods, you will enable precise diagnoses and contribute to the early detection of diseases.
Industrial biotechnology
You use microbial systems to produce valuable chemical compounds. You optimize biotechnological processes for maximum efficiency and sustainability. With your understanding of metabolic pathways and fermentation techniques, you will develop environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional chemical production processes.
Enzyme catalysis
You will research the function of enzymes and use them as biocatalysts. You will develop enzymatic processes for industrial applications in various sectors. With your knowledge of protein structure and enzyme kinetics, you will contribute to the development of sustainable production processes that consume less energy and resources.
Environmental biotechnology
You will develop biological processes for the removal of pollutants and environmental remediation. You will design sustainable processes for wastewater treatment and waste recycling. With your interdisciplinary knowledge of microbiology and process engineering, you will contribute to environmental protection and a resource-conserving circular economy.
Research and Development
You will work on research projects at public or private institutions. You will plan and conduct experiments and analyze their results. With your scientific approach and broad expertise, you will contribute to the further development of biotechnological methods and open up new areas of application in the life sciences.
Here's what our students have to say about the bachelor's program in Molecular Biotechnology
- Module Handbook (Course Content and Structure)
- Program Flyer
- Application Information
- Faculty Website
Your contact persons
First floor
First floor
We now also offer our student advisory service via WhatsApp. Just send us a message to: +49 173 2086748
Our promise to you
Studying in the wild east?
Studying with us is different. Above all, it's better. Why? We have a family atmosphere. There are small study groups and the lecturers are always there for you. There is a close connection to practice in all degree courses. And finding affordable accommodation is no problem here.
There are many other reasons, such as university sports or the student representatives, clubs and societies. Campus life in Zittau and Görlitz - the wild east - is unique.