Course content and focus areas
The research-oriented master's program Drug Research – 4 semesters for students with a bachelor's degree [AMF (4 Sem for BSc)] is designed for graduates of natural science undergraduate programs who wish to gain deeper insights into drug research and development.
Building on the fundamental scientific skills acquired during the undergraduate program, the first two semesters of the AMF (4 Sem for BSc) master's program focus on essential pharmaceutical competencies in areas such as pharmaceutical biology, pharmaceutical/medical chemistry, drug analysis, pharmaceutical technology and biopharmacy, biochemical and molecular biological principles of drug action, pharmacology and toxicology, as well as pathophysiology/pathobiochemistry (foundation phase). Through selected courses tailored to the needs of the master's program and offered within the Staatsexamen pharmacy program, students gain an understanding of the biochemical and molecular biological principles of drug mechanisms and metabolism, the relationship between drug chemistry and pharmacological properties, differences between low-molecular-weight and recombinant drugs, various drug formulations and administration routes, as well as questions related to pharmacokinetics and drug bioavailability.
The program includes a significant amount of hands-on training in the laboratory: during the foundation phase through teaching labs, and during the research phase through individual research labs. These build on the practical skills acquired during the undergraduate program.
In semesters 3 and 4, students participate in two major research labs (one of which can be completed abroad or in the industry) and ultimately work on their master’s thesis, gaining and solidifying scientific research skills by contributing to current research topics (research phase). These research-oriented modules are complemented by courses that deepen knowledge in various areas of drug research, from drug design to regulatory requirements in drug development and quality control of pharmaceuticals. Throughout the program, students learn about the entire value chain of drug development.
With perspectives from different disciplines and a strong interdisciplinary approach, graduates become key contributors to optimal drug research, with career opportunities in both research institutions and the industry.