Chemistry - Master of Science
Übersicht
Übersicht
Übersicht
As a chemist, you are driven by a passion for discovery and a desire to make a meaningful impact. Our Master of Science Chemistry is designed to help you achieve just that. Building on your solid foundation in chemistry, we will provide you with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and expert guidance to take your skills to the next level.
At the University of Cologne, you will join a vibrant community of researchers and scholars who are shaping the future of chemical sciences. You will work alongside experienced professors and young researchers who are tackling hot topics in their field, gaining hands-on experience through practical courses and specializing in areas that suit your interests and career goals.
With our diverse range of research fields, you will have the chance to explore different branches of chemistry, from life sciences to materials science, synthesis, and structures. Wherever your passion lies, you will find opportunities to develop your expertise, preparing you for a successful career in chemistry, whether in industry or academia.
About the program
The Master of Science in Chemistry study program is totally renewed and accredited. It will start with the winter term 2024/25 at the University of Cologne and is the consecutive study program of the Bachelor's program in Chemistry. It is an interdisciplinary and research-oriented program, located at the interface between Chemistry, Biochemistry, Medicine and Physics. Students will acquire a strong background in Chemistry and its application in different research fields such as green energy, smart materials and innovative medical applications. The graduates will be enabled to follow many career paths both inside and outside of academia.
- Study program can be started in winter or summer term
- Fully taught in English (German not required but useful for every-day life)
- 2-year full-time program
- Includes 10 modules: 2 advanced, 1 scientific literacy, 2 research focus, 4 specialized lab modules, and a master thesis with defense
- Term-based course schedule
- No limit on places per term, good supervision ratio guaranteed
Term based course schedule
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Module A1 6 CP | Research focus RF2 6 CP |
Lab Module LM1 |
Master thesis |
| Advanced Module A2 6 CP |
Subject Module SM2 | ||
| Scientific Literacy SL 9 CP |
Lab Module + | ||
Subject Module SM1 | |||
| Research focus RF1 6 CP | |||
| Σ 27 CP | Σ 30 CP | Σ 33 CP | Σ 30 CP |
Application for summer term 2026
For the summer term starting in April 2025, the application platform will be open from December 1st, 2025 to January 15th, 2026.
Requirements for admission
Applicants with non-German BSc degree
| Applicants with German BSc degree
**To apply for the Master's program before completing your Bachelor's degree, you need to show proof of earning at least 80% of the total credit points. Submit a Transcript of Records with a preliminary grade for the application. If admitted, you must finish your Bachelor's degree by September 30 for the winter term or March 31 for the summer term. Provide proof of completing any remaining exams by the next term's registration deadline (January/July). Failure to do so will invalidate your admission confirmation. |
Application procedure
Applicants with non-German BSc degreeRegister via uni-assist for a preliminary review (VPD). You do not need to select our master, instead go with "All Subject", but it is important to select the “University of Cologne”. The procedure takes 6-8 weeks. Go to KLIPS, change to English (de/en button), follow the applicant account link. Enter your details and upload your documents:
Get application tips and help also from the international student office here. | Applicants with German BSc degreeGo to KLIPS, follow the applicant account link. Enter your details and upload your documents:
|
Selecting Modules
| For the winter semester 2025/26: KLIPS portal opens 13.10. - 19.10.2025. Beginners, please attend the Welcome meeting, before selecting modules. |
Obligatory Module
Scientific Literacy (SL)
Scientific Literacy (SL), the newly created module, provides beginners in the master's program with essential scientific work skills that extend beyond those learned in the bachelor's program. In particular, aspects of scientific integrity, presenting, searching and handling of literature, handling of data, introduction to the most essential software, especially AI applications will be discussed and tried out. In addition, a three-week laboratory internship provides an opportunity to repeat and deepen familiar working techniques as well as to perform unfamiliar techniques for the first time. In addition, the SL module serves as a group-building event where the first-year cohort can connect with their respective academic mentors, learn about specialization opportunities in the master's program, and network socially and professionally with other students or teaching assistants within and outside of the cohort.
Elective Modules
Advanced Chemistry (A)
Advanced Chemistry (A) modules feature lecturers from all main areas of chemistry—biochemistry, inorganic, macromolecular, organic, physical, and theoretical—who present core knowledge combined with cutting-edge research. You will learn, recapitulate, and deepen your understanding of modern Chemistry. The modules conveys general knowledge in advanced chemistry and prepare for the more specialized modules in the respective field. You need to choose two A-Modules.
Elective Modules
Research Focus (RF)
Research Focus (RF) Modules involve collaboration between two or more lecturers, each contributing their expertise to a modern Chemistry topic. With these modules, you can already make the first steps into specialization or you can broaden your horizon and learn from the many experts within and associated with the department.
Elective RF Modules - Winter Semester
Computational ChemistryHanrath, Blunk, Goldfuß | Introduction to (nano) opticsLindfors, Schubert, Gather | Aspects of Transition Metal Chemistry with Emphasis on TechnetiumWickleder, Strub |
From Molecule to Mice to MenGrüll, Endepols, Kath-Schorr, Neundorf | Mass Spectrometry and its Application in Atmospheric ChemistrySchäfer, Zorn (FZ Jülich), Hanrath | Inorganic and Organic Photochemistry as Tools for Protecting and Releasing Small MoleculesGriesbeck, Klein |
Elective RF Modules - Summer Semester
Introduction to Nano- & BiophotonicsGather, Schubert | Photochemistry & Chirality - Synthesis and DevicesGriesbeck, Meerholz | From basic research to industrial products: Modern Drug DesignGiernoth, Kath-Schorr, Hillisch, El Sheikh, Dumele |
Functional Nanostructures and BiomaterialsMaleki, Mathur |
Elective Modules
Subject Modules (SM)
Subject Modules (SM) must be successfully completed, preferably in the 2nd and 3rd terms. The Subject Modules aim to extend the knowledge in the respective research area with 8-week laboratory (practical part) and theoretical training (lecture part). Simultaneously, the students extend their skills of presenting scientific results in oral and written form. To better achieve these competencies, the subject modules contains reporting and presentation elements as prerequisites for the oral examinations. You have to register the Subject Module(s) of your choice via Klips. Each term, Subject Modules are offered in blocks, either in the first or the second half of the term.
Registration will be confirmed via KLIPS at a fixed date some time after registration ends.
SM lecture series LIFE and MATTER - Summer Semester 2026
Please note, that although we try to assign top priorities first, it is not always possible.
Contact
Dr. Heike Henneken
FAQ
We've gathered some common questions and answers to help you navigate the application process. If you still have doubts or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're happy to help!
Can't find Master of Chemistry in Uni Assist?
If you can't find the Master of Chemistry program at the University of Cologne in Uni Assist, select "All subjects" and make sure to choose "University of Cologne" specifically. This should help you proceed with your application.
Do I need to take an English language proficiency test if I completed my Bachelor's in English?
No, you don't need to take an English language proficiency test (e.g. IELTS or TOEFL) if you completed your Bachelor's degree in English. However, please upload a confirmation from your university to prove this.
How long does it take to receive an admission decision after submitting documents?
We will make a decision within two weeks after the deadline. This will give you sufficient time to apply for a visa, considering the potential delays in getting an appointment.
Is a 3-year Indian Bachelor's degree in Chemistry and Environmental Science eligible for application?
A 3-year Bachelor's degree from India may not be eligible for a full VPD (Vorprüfungsdokumentation, or Preliminary Documentation). However, we can consider your application if you can provide proof of sufficient credit points required for the program.
Can I submit individual semester mark sheets with total grades for VPD since my transcript doesn't show an overall grade?
No, you need to provide a document that shows an overall grade, even if it's not your final grade. This document must still meet the required grade criteria.
Can I apply without an APS certificate if I haven't completed my degree in time, and submit it later during enrollment?
Yes, you can apply with notarized copies of your transcript and other documents, and then submit your APS certificate, degree certificate, and final transcript during the enrollment process.
How do I submit my application documents?
Please create an account in Klips and apply online by uploading the required documents. Do not send documents by mail.
I don't have Biochemistry credits, but I have Organic Chemistry credits. Am I eligible to apply?
Yes, you can apply if you can prove 12 ECTS in either Organic Chemistry or Biochemistry.