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Biology

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Biology

The Bachelor's degree programme in Biology at Ulm University covers a wide range of subjects and integrates aspects of molecular biology, cell biology, organismic biology and ecosystem research. You will study biology in Ulm in a research-orientated and practical way and receive both a targeted professional qualification and a good basis for further scientific qualification. It is possible and desirable to continue your biology degree programme up to Master's level.

More about the course

Our Bachelor's degree programme in Biology provides a basic education in all areas of biology: Botany, zoology, ecology, physiology, genetics, cell biology, microbiology and biochemistry. In research specialisations, you can deepen your knowledge in internships and excursions of your choice. The biology degree programme also includes the key minor subjects of chemistry, physics and mathematics. Additional scientific qualifications are acquired, for example, in biostatistics, bioinformatics, bioethics and philosophy of science, as well as through courses in the medical field.

Academic Degree

Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Type of Study
  • Full-time
Study Curriculum

Start of Study
  • each winter semester
University Place

92

Language of Instruction
  • German and English
Admission Requirements
  • Restricted (for further information see 'Application')
ECTS Credits

180

Standard Period of Study

6

Course structure for the B.Sc. in Biology

Botany, Zoology & Cell Biology
Chemistry
Mathematics
Elective: Cross-disciplinary Skills
Semester 1
Molecular Biology & Biodiversity
Chemistry
Physics
Semester 2
Molecular and Microbiology, Biochemistry
Ecological, Plant & Neurophysiology
Chemistry
Semester 3
Animal Physiology, Biochemistry & Good Scientific Practice
Ecology & Biostatistics
Compulsory elective module in Ecology
Chemistry
Compulsory elective module in Medicine
Semester 4
Molecular, Cellular & Microbiology, Bioinformatics
Ecology
Compulsory elective module in Cell Biology
Compulsory elective module in Medicine
Elective: Cross-disciplinary Skills
Semester 5
Elective module: Bachelor’s thesis
Elective module: Preparatory module for the Bachelor’s thesis
Bioethics
Semester 6
  • Botany, Zoology & Cell Biology
    Chemistry
    Mathematics
    Elective: Cross-disciplinary Skills
    Semester 1
  • Molecular Biology & Biodiversity
    Chemistry
    Physics
    Semester 2
  • Molecular and Microbiology, Biochemistry
    Ecological, Plant & Neurophysiology
    Chemistry
    Semester 3
  • Animal Physiology, Biochemistry & Good Scientific Practice
    Ecology & Biostatistics
    Compulsory elective module in Ecology
    Chemistry
    Compulsory elective module in Medicine
    Semester 4
  • Molecular, Cellular & Microbiology, Bioinformatics
    Ecology
    Compulsory elective module in Cell Biology
    Compulsory elective module in Medicine
    Elective: Cross-disciplinary Skills
    Semester 5
  • Elective module: Bachelor’s thesis
    Elective module: Preparatory module for the Bachelor’s thesis
    Bioethics
    Semester 6

Experience ecology at first hand

One of Germany’s largest and most species-rich botanical gardens is at your disposal as a living natural laboratory. Here, you can explore biodiversity, ecosystems and nature conservation right where they actually take place.

What’s it all about? A brief overview of the course content

 

In biology, we place great emphasis on imparting basic theoretical and practical knowledge in the following areas:

  • Molecular biology
  • Cell biology
  • Organismic biology
  • Ecosystem research

In addition, students acquire fundamental mathematical and scientific skills, as well as the ability to work, conduct research and communicate in an interdisciplinary manner.

You can find detailed information on the course content in the curriculum.

Why Biology? A quick overview of the course objectives

 

The degree programme provides comprehensive knowledge and skills that meet international research standards in biology. In addition to theoretical training, students acquire extensive skills in laboratory and fieldwork, in the planning and implementation of research projects, as well as in data analysis and good scientific practice. 

Several elective modules offer insights into the current scientific work of the participating institutes – for example, on the topic of our overarching research focus, ‘Stress response and resilience of biological systems’. The programme emphasises the ethical treatment of animals and the promotion of animal welfare in research – and you will be perfectly prepared for a wide range of career paths (see below).

What makes Ulm special? A brief overview of the study environment

 

A weekend trip to Lake Constance or a climbing trip to the Alps? No problem at all from Ulm! Ranked as Germany’s most liveable city (Handelsblatt), Ulm offers an attractive mix of student life, cutting-edge academic research and excellent career prospects in the biopharmaceutical industry and other relevant sectors.

The Department of Biology fosters a personalised approach to student support. This creates close contact between students and lecturers. From an early stage in their studies, students get involved in current areas of research and apply what they have learnt in a wide range of work placements. Small-group seminars and well-equipped laboratories contribute to academic success.

The University of Ulm stands out for its clear focus on medicine and STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), the outstanding quality of its teaching and its excellent research.

 

Field trips – a special way of learning

 

Whether it’s trips to identify bird calls and plants or taking part in a summer school, field trips encourage the application of theoretical knowledge and foster a deeper understanding of our subject. As part of the degree programme, they are therefore an integral part of many modules.

Ways to go abroad

A great way to broaden your horizons is to spend a study period at a university abroad. Students at the University of Ulm can apply to spend one or two semesters abroad at numerous universities: across Europe as part of the ERASMUS programme, and also outside Europe. The Department of Biology facilitates study abroad semesters by establishing a so-called ‘mobility window’. This makes it much easier for you to have academic credits earned abroad recognised.

The University of Ulm has exchange agreements with over 100 universities in 26 countries. Further information is available from the International Office.


International Office

A special exchange programme for biology students: Exchange Programme Costa Rica

Since 1987, biology students have had the opportunity to spend one or two semesters studying tropical biology at the Universidad de Costa Rica.

Studierende führen mit Spritzen Versuche im Labor durch

What students at the University of Ulm have to say

Cesare, starting in 2024
: The biology department at Ulm is very well-equipped. The lecturers are friendly and supportive, and they go into greater detail when explaining the course content during the practical sessions.

Eva, starting her degree in 2023
The course content is very interesting, for example cell biology. Of course, chemistry and maths feature heavily at the start, but at the University of Ulm you stay up to date thanks to worksheets and seminars. The university is situated in the countryside on the Eselsberg – it’s very beautiful.

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Studying at the University of Ulm

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The university is celebrating in the city

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PhD student Matthias values his contact with the students

And after graduation? Fields of work and career profiles for biologists

Regardless of their degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD), biologists work in a wide range of fields, for example at universities, in non-university research institutions, in government bodies or in industry:

  • Academic research
  • Research and development in industry
  • Biopharmaceutical research
  • Biotechnology (genetic engineering)
  • Clinical research (e.g. cancer research)
  • Plant breeding
  • Environmental protection and analysis
  • Environmental biology (biodiversity, sustainability)
  • Hygiene
  • Water management
  • Measurement and laboratory technology
  • Patent law
  • Marketing
  • Sales and Quality Management
  • Journalism
  • Expert assessment and consultancy

Further information can be found on the website of the VBIO – Association for Biology, Life Sciences & Biomedicine in Germany:

Discover the career paths of UUlm graduates (pdf)

Studying and living in Ulm

Welcome to “Germany’s most liveable city” (Handelsblatt 2024). In Albert Einstein’s birthplace, science, leisure, top employers and culture come together in a unique way. Top venues and events such as the Ulmer Zelt, Nabada and the Donaufest draw visitors to the quaint alleyways. You’ll feel right at home here!

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