Integrated Immunology (M.Sc.)
Integrated Immunology (M.Sc.)
Would you like to make a decisive contribution to combating infectious diseases and chronic illnesses? Then discover our international Master’s degree program “Integrated Immunology” (iImmune)! FAU is a leader in immunology research and proud of its strong partnerships with renowned research institutions and graduate schools. By integrating clinical modules, you will gain a holistic insight into immunology during your studies and develop the skills you need to find innovative solutions to tomorrow’s health challenges.
- Degree
- Master of Science
- Duration of studies in semester
- 4
- Start of degree program
- Winter semester
- Study location
- Erlangen
- Number of students
- 1-50
- Subject group
- Medicine, Health sciences, Mathematics, Natural sciences
- Special ways to study
- Elite degree programs, International degree program
- Teaching language
- completely in English
- Admission Requirements
- Qualification assessment
What is the degree program about?
Our society is increasingly affected by infectious diseases, as well as chronic autoimmune and allergic diseases. The international Master’s degree program “Integrated Immunology” (iImmune) was jointly initiated by the Department of Biology and the Faculty of Medicine at the FAU and is supported by the Elite Network of Bavaria. The degree program focuses on integrating basic and clinical immunology training in a research-oriented manner.
FAU has a strong focus on immunological research, which is reflected in its collaboration with research institutions and graduate schools. The integration of clinical modules allows a bench to bedside approach.
The degree program is also open to medical students.
Aims of the Master’s degree program:
- Provide a comprehensive education in immunology at the interface between biology and medicine
- Train students with excellent supervision, including small group teaching and modern teaching concepts such as problem-oriented learning (POL)
- Provide research-oriented education, comprising basic and clinical immunology, cell biology, microbiology and virology
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1st year
Lectures on cell and molecular biology provide you with the necessary basic knowledge to understand fundamental cell functions such as phagocytosis and extravasation and lays the groundwork for understanding the immune response. Basic immunology lectures offer you basic insights into the world of the immune system that protects the body against invading pathogens. Integrated laboratory courses will teach you basic and advanced molecular biological and immunological techniques as well as analytical methods. Problem-oriented learning tutorials (POL) focus on developing your problem solving skills, both independently and within a team. You will research and debate with your fellow students on questions in immunology and present your findings weekly. Seminars give you the opportunity to carry out extensive research a topic of your choice and present a publication to your fellow students. Lectures in translational immunology give you an extensive insight into the immunological defenses against bacteria, viruses and vaccination strategies. Lectures in the clinical immunology module and bedside visits give you direct insights into current clinical approaches to treat infections and immune diseases.
2nd year
Internal meeting: At the beginning of the 3rd semester the professors, external advisory board and their colleagues meet for scientific talks to discuss career possibilities and to evaluate your first academic year. A 2-3 month international internship will allow you to gain further practical experience from an international industrial or academic research laboratory. Full support is given before and during your internship. Theoretical project work: As an introduction to your Master’s thesis, you will write an essay in the form of a review or a grant application. Master’s thesis: You will work for 6 months on your Master’s thesis in a laboratory of your choice. Soft skills: FAU, Elite Network Bayern and Volkshochschule Bayern offer an extensive range of key qualifications including language courses and subject specific topics. The degree program also offers workshops on good scientific practice and seminars in current immunological research.
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- Completed Bachelor’s degree in life sciences (e.g. biology, molecular medicine, integrated life sciences, cell biology, biotechnology)
- Proof of English language proficiency (upper intermediate level B2 / IELTS 5.5)
- Basic knowledge of cell and molecular biology and immunology
- Enthusiasm for immunological questions
- Strong self motivation and teamwork
- Practical laboratory experience is recommended
- Letter of application
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Immunology is an up-and-coming research field that offers a wide range of employment opportunities. This Master’s degree uniquely prepares you for both a successful career in research or industry. Using your acquired knowledge and contacts, you are also optimally positioned for a doctoral degree.
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- Admission requirements (first semester)
- Qualification assessment
- Application deadline winter semester
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15.07.
- Content-related admission requirements
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Relevant Bachelor’s degree with grade 2.5 or better (or equivalent international grade) in biology, biochemistry, life sciences or a similar Bachelor’s degree.
Admission test
Applicants will be invited for an oral examination to test their suitability for the MSc in Integrated Immunology. The duration of the test is 20 minutes. The topics of this examination will be basic knowledge of molecular biology, cell biology and genetics. Furthermore, knowledge in a specific topic in immunology, virology or microbiology (as chosen by the applicant), will be examined.
The examination will be conducted by the admissions committee of the MSc program. The examination date will be announced at least one week in advance. Applicants shall bear the costs incurred as a result of taking part in the admissions test themselves.The application period ends on July 15th for the following winter semester. We recommend that applicants from non-European countries apply by the end of May at the latest.
Language skills
- German language skills for international applicants
- No DSH, English (level B2, CEFR)
- General language skills
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The required English level is “Vantage or upper intermediate” level (B2) according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, or an equivalent score in an internationally recognised test, eg. IELTS 5.5, TOEFL pbt 552. Six years of English lessons at a German Gymnasium shall also suffice as proof; applicants whose native language is English need not submit any such proof.
Proof of German proficiency is not required. However, we strongly recommend that non-German speaking students attend German language classes during the Master’s degree program.
Do you need help or more information?
Our Student Advice and Career Service (IBZ) is the central point of contact for all questions about studying and starting a degree programme. Our Student Service Centres and subject advisors support you in planning your studies.