Biology

Guiding Principles for the School Subject of Biology

1. Biology is the science of life, spanning everything from molecular foundations to interconnected ecosystems. At its core are living organisms: humans, animals, plants, fungi, and bacteria.
2. Biology explores the uniqueness of biological phenomena and processes, including the diversity of life and its origins, the principles governing living structures, functions, and processes, the role of evolution in shaping structures and functions, the dynamic complexity of biological systems, the variety of living habitats, and the interactions between organisms and their biotic and abiotic environments.
3. Biology contributes to understanding the world from a scientific perspective. By engaging with living systems, students develop an awareness that humans are part of nature, with their survival closely tied to other living beings and the non-living environment. Biology classes help young people shape their personal understanding of themselves and their place in the world.
4. Biology instruction goes beyond teaching biological knowledge—it also introduces students to the ways biologists think and work as part of the natural sciences. Lessons emphasize inquiry-based, problem-solving learning and teach biological methods and concepts. Students are guided in precise scientific work and encouraged to critically analyze results. Developing and applying models fosters abstract thinking and creativity, which are practiced through diverse examples.
5. Advances in biology and medicine, along with their technological applications, are increasingly shaping society. Biology classes address current biological phenomena and discoveries, as well as their applications, including discussions on bioethical issues.
6. The knowledge gained in biology classes promotes a responsible and sustainable approach to nature. Modern biology education includes environmental awareness and encourages students to take action and develop skills for nature and environmental conservation. Interdisciplinary approaches to environmental education and other cross-cutting topics of societal importance, such as health promotion and sex education, are also encouraged.

This degree program has restricted admission (NC) within the university. Admission is determined through a process where 20% of the spots are allocated based on waiting time and 80% based on the average grade of your higher education entrance qualification. Waiting time refers to the period between completing your high school diploma and applying for the program (excluding any time spent studying).

Admission to this degree program is determined through a separate selection process. In this process:

1. The total score from your higher education entrance qualification is weighted with a factor of 0.66, and  
2. The average score from the grades earned in the last four semesters in the science subjects (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) as well as Mathematics—including scores from final exams—is weighted with a factor of 0.34.

You can easily apply through Goethe University’s application portal within the specified application deadline. During the online application process, you’ll find out if any supporting documents are required and which ones need to be submitted.