Life Science Engineering (LSE)
Life Science Engineering (LSE) (M.Sc.)

The master’s degree program in Life Science Engineering deals with the application of state-of-the-art technologies to biological systems and processes. The focus is on the development of innovative solutions for the fields of medicine, environmental and food technology. As a graduate of this program, you will have a broad knowledge of biochemistry, biotechnology, biophysics and process engineering. The interdisciplinary orientation of the degree program enables you to work in a diverse professional field and face the challenges of the future.
- Degree
- Master of Science
- Duration of studies in semester
- 4
- Start of degree program
- Summer semester, Winter semester
- Study location
- Erlangen
- Number of students
- 50-150
- Subject group
- Engineering sciences
- Special ways to study
- International degree program, Part-time degree program
- Teaching language
- German and English
- Admission Requirements
- Qualification assessment
What is the degree program about?
Life Science Engineering is the engineering discipline that deals with the modification of substances by chemical, physical, biological, microbiological and/or biotechnological processes. The aim is to improve product properties and reduce the number and quantity of undesirable by-products and waste products by continuously optimizing existing processes or using new ones.
Building on the bachelor’s degree program, a four-semester master’s degree program in LSE is offered. The program provides comprehensive scientific methodology and in-depth knowledge, especially in the fields of biological process engineering and (medical) biotechnology.
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The master’s degree program includes specialisation, compulsory elective and elective modules, a three-week project developement course, a twelve-week industrial internship and the six-month master’s thesis.
In the master’s degree program, students have the opportunity to acquire in-depth expertise in at least three core areas of life science engineering, e.g. from:
- Bioreaction and bioprocess engineering
- Medical Biotechnology
- Bioseparation
- Mechanical process engineering
- Metabolic engineering
Individual orientation also allows students to choose seven elective modules from a broad catalog of current, research-oriented topics. Examples of elective modules are: Immunobiotechnology, Food Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Technology, Biophysics/Biomechanics, Environmental Bioprocess Engineering.
2 elective modules (1 from the natural science/engineering area and 1 from the whole FAU offer) complement the profile.
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The Master’s degree in LSE qualifies for entry into doctoral studies as well as for various professional fields of activity:
- in the biotechnological, pharmaceutical, agrochemical, medical and environmental technology, food technology, paper and pulp industry, textile industry, in waste management companies as well as in water treatment (in each case in the fields of research, development, production, project management, marketing)
- at planning, manufacturing and assembly companies for process engineering processes and plants (technical management, planning, sales)
- at supervisory and licensing authorities (controlling, implementation and review of legal regulations)
- at associations and organizations
- in public or private research institutes (project management, basic research).
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- Admission requirements (first semester)
- Qualification assessment
- Application deadline winter semester
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15.07.
- Application deadline summer semester
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15.01.
- Content-related admission requirements
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The qualification for the master’s degree program is proven by a bachelor’s degree in Life Science Engineering completed with above-average success (2.5) or if at least four of the core subjects (see Fachprüfungsordnung (FPO)) have been passed with the average of the module grades 3.0 or better. Applicants with a degree that is not fully equivalent or/and with a final grade worse than 2.5 can only be admitted to the master’s degree program on the basis of a passed oral entrance examination. The Master’s Admissions Committee decides on the suitability for the master’s degree program.
In addition, proof of proficiency in both German and English at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages must be submitted.
Consecutive study program /Subject-specific Bachelor’s degree
- Life Science Engineering
Related Bachelor’s degree/access to Master’s degree possible with conditions
- Chemical Engineering – Sustainable Chemical Technologies
- Energy Engineering
- Chemical and Bioengineering
Language skills
- General language skills
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German and English: B2
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.