Pharmaceutical Technology: Discovery, Development and Production - Master's Programme
Start
Autumn 2026
Duration
2 years
Level
Master's
Language
English
Place of study
Lund
The master’s programme in Pharmaceutical Technology provides a broad and interdisciplinary approach to drug development. You will gain in-depth knowledge of the entire pharmaceutical process, from the discovery and identification of active substances to the development and production of both biomolecules and small organic pharmaceuticals.
One of the programme’s key strengths is its strong industrial relevance. You will be exposed to real-world pharmaceutical development scenarios, with an emphasis on laboratory practice and project-based learning. The programme is closely linked to several strong research departments at Lund University, as well as the pharmaceutical industry and leading international universities.
Throughout your studies, you will become part of a dynamic international research environment, with access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and key equipment used in the pharmaceutical industry. Whether you focus on small molecules or biological pharmaceuticals, you will be prepared for a career in industry or academia.
The programme ensures that all students, regardless of their chosen specialisation, acquire a solid foundation in the discovery, development, and production of both small organic molecules and biological pharmaceuticals. You will develop expertise in formulation, production, and quality assurance, gaining practical skills through laboratory work, teamwork, and project planning.
As you progress, you will have the opportunity to specialise in either small organic molecule therapeutics or biological pharmaceuticals. Project-based courses will provide deeper knowledge in drug formulation, preclinical and clinical trials, regulatory frameworks, and patents. The programme also includes Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) basics, with options for further specialisation in quality assurance.
Your studies will culminate in a Master’s thesis project, conducted in collaboration with academic research groups or industry partners. These collaborations offer opportunities to engage in cutting-edge pharmaceutical research, both at Lund University and internationally.
The programme is offered by LTH, Lunds Tekniska Högskola (The Faculty of Engineering at Lund University).
The pharmaceutical industry has a growing demand for experts with comprehensive knowledge of the drug development process. As a graduate of this programme, you will be well-prepared for a career in an international, multidisciplinary pharmaceutical environment.
The programme is closely connected to Medicon Valley, one of northern Europe’s strongest biotech regions, home to over 200 international pharmaceutical companies. Globally, there is an increasing trend of small biotech companies developing lead compounds, analytical methods, and advanced formulation solutions for large pharmaceutical corporations. This expanding sector offers exciting career opportunities.
Graduates typically start their careers as organic or analytical chemists, biochemists developing biological pharmaceuticals, formulators of new drug products, quality assurance specialists, or regulatory experts. The programme also provides an excellent foundation for those who wish to pursue PhD studies and specialise further in the field.
Prerequisites
A Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, biotechnology, chemistry, medicinal chemistry or equivalent At least 10 credits/ECTS in completed, dedicated mathematics/statistic courses, of which at least 5 credits mathematics. Completed courses of at least 60 credits/ECTS in chemistry, chemical engineering and/or biotechnology, of which at least 5 credits/ECTS in organic chemistry and 5 credits/ECTS in biochemistry/cell biology. English 6.
Selection criteria
The selection is based on academic qualifications.
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.