Molecular Biology, Microbiology and Biotechnology - Master Programme
Start
Autumn 2026
Duration
2 years
Level
Master's
Language
English
Place of study
Lund
Microorganisms are essential to life on Earth, influencing everything from ecosystems to the cycling of elements. As such, microbiology is central not only to biology but also to fields like medicine, agriculture, food science, chemistry, geology, and meteorology.
This Master’s programme explores how microbes are used to produce food, bulk and fine chemicals, including pharmaceuticals. You will also learn how bacteria, viruses, and unicellular fungi serve as powerful model systems in both basic and applied research.
You will gain extensive hands-on lab experience and develop skills in experimental design and data analysis. The programme includes a high proportion of scheduled teaching. You will practice both oral and written presentations and gain valuable experience in group collaboration.
The educational environment and programme have a significant international character with strong research connections. All teachers are active researchers, ensuring that the curriculum is continuously updated to reflect current scientific developments. The Department of Biology hosts world-leading research groups in both fundamental and applied science. The programme is taught in English.
In the first semester, you will take two compulsory courses in microbiology and molecular microbiology. The second semester includes another compulsory course in molecular biotechnology and methods, followed by electives such as antibiotics, microscopy and image analysis, or other optional courses.
In your second year, you may choose to study bioinformatics and/or Python programming. Your degree project can be 30, 45, or 60 credits and is carried out in a research group or at a company.
If you opt for a shorter thesis, you can take additional theoretical courses or complete a second project. There is also the option to do an internship, which can provide valuable work experience and professional connections.
This Master’s programme equips you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in research-intensive sectors such as biotechnology, pharmaceutical companies, and parts of the chemical industry. It also opens doors to roles in patent work, environmental protection, and public health.
As a microbiologist, you will find career opportunities across a wide range of industries. The programme also provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies.
Prerequisites
Specialisation: Microbiology and Biotechnology Bachelor’s degree of at least 180 credits or the equivalent, of which 120 credits must be in science/biomedicine/engineering, including: 45 credits in molecular biology comprising genetics, cell biology and microbiology 30 credits in chemistry comprising biochemistry Proficiency in English equivalent to English 6/B from Swedish upper-secondary school.
Selection criteria
Based on grades awarded for previous academic courses and a statement of purpose for the application to the study programme (from the applicant’s “Summary sheet”).
Computers in the programme
The student must have access to a computer, preferably a laptop, on which you can install software mainly provided by the University, such as Microsoft 365, CAD/CAM and development environments for Python, Matlab or other computational tools. It can be either a Windows computer or a Macintosh computer. On some courses you may need to buy or rent your own software.
Conditions in the study environment and during study visits and field studies
The programme contains compulsory elements that require you to be able to work independently and safely in a laboratory environment, in a hospital environment, in workshops, in production facilities, or during study visits and field studies. These elements require the ability to comply with safety regulations, rules and instructions, and to move around in and evacuate premises safely.
Ethical concerns
The programme includes compulsory elements that some people may have concerns about, such as patient-centred activities in healthcare, animal testing or dissection. However, the student is obliged to acquire knowledge and skills in these areas as well, to the extent necessary to fulfil the learning outcomes of the course. For some elements, there might be specific requirements regarding rules on hygiene, protective work clothing, confidentiality and professionalism.
Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens
Citizens of countries outside:
- The European Union (EU)
- The European Economic Area (EEA) and
- Switzerland
are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.
Tuition fees, payments and exemptions
Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 370,000
First payment: SEK 92,500
Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.
No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland
There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
Lund University Global Scholarship Programme
The Lund University Global Scholarship programme is a merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.
Lund University Global Scholarship
African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship
Within the framework of the Lund University Global Scholarship programme, the University also offers the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship targeted at top academic students from selected African research universities.
Swedish Institute Scholarship: Global professionals
The Swedish Institute offers scholarships to international students from certain countries who are applying for select Master's programmes in Sweden.
Scholarship information on the Swedish Institute website
Swedish Institute Scholarship: Pioneering Women in STEM Scholarship
The Swedish Institute offers scholarships for Master's studies in Sweden for women from selected countries in Africa and Asia who want to pursue degrees in STEM fields. Check the country and programme requirements on the Swedish Institute's website to see if you are eligible for the scholarship.
SI Scholarship Pioneering Women in STEM
Country-specific scholarships and funding options
Lund University has agreements with scholarship organisations and funding bodies in different countries, which may allow applicants to apply for funding or scholarships in their home countries for their studies at Lund University. Most agreements are intended for Master’s applicants, although certain opportunities may also be available to Bachelor’s students.
External scholarships
In addition to scholarships offered by Lund University or through its partner agreements, there are external opportunities. On the page below, you’ll find examples of organisations that may provide financial support for international students from specific countries.