Genomic Biotechnology

We are on the cusp of an era in which we no longer merely observe biological systems, but programme them with precision. Whether it’s curing rare genetic diseases using CRISPR/Cas, breeding climate-resilient crops or developing microorganisms as mini-factories: it all hinges on decoding and recombining genomes. On the Master’s programme in Genomic Biotechnology in Mittweida, you will learn to harness vast amounts of biological data and transform them into life-saving or resource-efficient innovations.

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Facts and figures

Faculty
Applied Computer Sciences and Biosciences
Academic degree
Master of Science
Course of studies
4 Semesters
Start
Winter semester
Master of Science (M.Sc.)

Genomic Biotechnology

Why Mittweida? Because here you won’t get lost in anonymous mass lectures, but will have direct access to state-of-the-art sequencing technologies. Whilst others are still discussing theory, you’ll be analysing complex biological data and designing synthetic genetic circuits in the faculty’s laboratories. What makes it special is its interdisciplinary nature: you’ll combine classical molecular biology with machine learning and nanobiotechnology. In this way, you’ll become the link between the wet lab and the dry lab, where the pipette meets the algorithm.

Genomic Biotechnology: What sets the Master’s programme in Mittweida apart

What sort of content can I expect?

An overview of the course content

During the first two semesters, you’ll develop a highly sought-after specialist profile. You’ll deepen your knowledge of molecular biology and bio-data processing, whilst at the same time learning to navigate the legal and business challenges of genetic engineering. You’ll decide for yourself whether to specialise further in environmental metagenomics, nanobiotechnology or machine learning. 

The third semester is crucial: you’ll devote a full half-year exclusively to your own research module. This intensive practical phase, whether in the laboratory or with industry partners, serves as your springboard into independent research and prepares you perfectly for your Master’s thesis.

Genomic Biotechnology I

Molecular Biology

Biodata processing

Genetic engineering and genetic engineering law

Technology Transfer and Start-up Strategies

Elective module (1 out of 2):

  • Bioinformatics
  • General Studies (Studium Generale) (2 out of 3)

Genomic Biotechnology II

Nanobiotechnology

Synthetic Biology

Catalysis

Environmental Metagenomics

Elective module (1 out of 4):

  • Bio-data visualisation
  • Molecular and Cellular Biophysics
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Machine learning

Research
module duration: 24 weeks

  • Research placement
  • Research seminar

Master's thesis

„Analysing gene expression, juggling pipettes and, in the process, getting to the bottom of environmental issues at a molecular level – on the Master’s programme in Genomic Biotechnology, I learnt just how exciting research into a healthy environment can be.”
Tim
24, from Dresden, a graduate of the Genomic Biotechnology degree programme and a research assistant
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Genomic Biotechnology in Mittweida

In summary – Genomic Biotechnology in Mittweida

Description

Full-time Master’s programme in Molecular Genomics and Digital Bio-data Processing

Academic degree
Master of Science
(120 Credits)
Regular study period
4 Semesters, Full-time study
Start
Winter semester
Course language
german
Admission restriction
No
Costs per semester
Semester fee 107€
Afterwards?

Once you’ve completed your Master’s degree, you’ll be one of the few specialists capable of both working in the laboratory and operating complex bioinformatics pipelines. You could work as a genome data scientist in pharmaceutical research, as a laboratory manager in biotech companies, or as an expert in personalised medicine in hospitals. Careers as a technical consultant for biosafety authorities, an R&D specialist in synthetic biology, or even starting your own business are also open to you.

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Study Information Evening (Studieninformationsabend)

11 November 2026 | 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm

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Application and Admission

Applicants must hold a first professional university degree in a life science such as biology, Biotechnology, bioinformatics or related disciplines, comprising 180 ECTS credits (Bachelor’s degree). Evidence of proficiency in molecular biology or biochemistry laboratory techniques must be provided; for example, through at least two relevant module qualifications that include laboratory practicals. In addition, evidence of a final dissertation with a focus on molecular biology or biochemistry must be provided.

Language proficiency:

Applicants who did not obtain their university entrance qualification through the German Abitur, including a basic English course with an average mark of 2, must demonstrate English language proficiency at level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Proof may be provided, for example, by a TOEFL test (iBT or iBT Home Edition) with a score of at least 76 points, the Duolingo English Test with a score of at least 110 points, or an equivalent certificate.

The application period for the winter semester begins on 15 April and ends on 15 July. You can register at hs-mittweida.de/bewerben. Once you have submitted all your documents, you can enrol. Once you have enrolled, your place at Mittweida is secured. For international applicants, the application deadline is 15 May, to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Excellent study conditions, modern facilities and some of the most affordable rent prices in Germany for a university town mean you can focus fully on your studies. Tutorials are on hand to help with subject-specific queries, the SAXEED start-up network guides you on your journey towards developing your own business idea, and the Social Support Service provides assistance with specific life situations, such as childcare or caring for relatives. The campus also has plenty to offer: two music festivals a year, an active esports team and a vibrant student community. International students, for example, are closely connected through the Cosmopolitan Club.

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Do you have any more questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Moving to Mittweida is strongly recommended for this degree programme. Biotechnology experiments and cell cultures rarely adhere to strict timetables – flexible laboratory sessions lasting several days are often necessary, which are difficult to reconcile with long commutes.

In the life sciences and Biotechnology, a Master’s degree is the standard qualification. If you want to lead research projects independently, work in the pharmaceutical industry’s R&D sector or go on to do a PhD, a Master’s degree is essential.

Your individuality is shaped above all by your choice of research projects and your Master’s thesis. Here, you can decide for yourself whether you wish to specialise further in molecular biology laboratory work, biomedical research or data-intensive bioinformatics.

The laboratory facilities in Mittweida are state-of-the-art. You will have access to the very latest equipment for next-generation sequencing (NGS), highly advanced PCR systems and cutting-edge bioinformatics analysis tools, all of which are directly in line with current industry practice.

Although the Master’s programme covers the theoretical foundations of genomics and systems biology in depth, the practical approach takes precedence at HSMW. The theory is applied directly in extensive laboratory sessions – so you’ll spend a considerable part of your time studying right at the lab bench and working with the measuring equipment.

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Lisa Viehweg
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Dienstags 13:30 bis 15:30 Uhr
Mittwochs 9 bis 11 Uhr
Donnerstags 14 bis 17 Uhr
Freitags 9 bis 11 Uhr

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What is the HSMW?

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There are more than just five good reasons to study in Mittweida. The most important one: over 90 specialised degree programmes that consistently focus on practical professional skills. Because, particularly in the age of AI, it’s not just about having learnt the theory, but about successfully applying it in practice.

But your time at university is about more than just acquiring knowledge. The HSMW campus is reminiscent of a US university – a small university somewhere in the Midwest. In Mittweida, everything is within easy walking distance, so you can study more comfortably, in a more relaxed and focused way – thanks in part to affordable rents. Instead of having to finance your living costs with part-time jobs, you can make the most of the vibrant campus life.

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dedicated staff
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