Biotechnology
Begin your journey in life sciences with a Bachelor of Biotechnology. A biotechnology degree course combines scientific innovation with practical application, preparing students to tackle global challenges in health, environment, and technology.
Course overview
Degree
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)
Duration
6 to 7 semesters
Intake
Majority in Winter Semester, but available in Summer Semester too
Language of instruction
German
Admission restriction
NC in some universities
Fees
Many tuition-free options. Semester contribution depending on universities.
About the course
The Bachelor’s in Biotechnology is a future-focused programme that blends innovation, practical training, and personal support. From the second to fifth semester, students take part in continuous project work, where they can bring their own biotechnological ideas to life under the guidance of experienced lecturers. This strong focus on hands-on learning is complemented by close connections with industry and research, ensuring graduates gain valuable experience and professional networks during their studies. With excellent opportunities to enter fields such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or environmental technology, and the option to continue with a specialised Master’s, this programme provides the perfect foundation for a successful career in biotechnology.
Admission guidelines
Academic requirement
A recognized pre-university qualification with relevant subjects
Language requirement
German C1
Other requirement
None
Why study biotechnology in Germany
Reputable institutions
Germany is renowned for its research-driven biotechnology degree programmes.
Practical learning focus
Students in the bachelor of biotechnology course gain hands-on experience in laboratories and research centres, translating scientific theory into real applications.
Strong industry links
With connections to biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical firms, and environmental organisations, students in this biotechnology degree course build professional networks early in their studies.
Global career prospects
A bachelor’s in biotechnology opens international opportunities in medicine, agriculture, and sustainable technology sectors.
Affordable education in Germany
The biotechnology programme is tuition-free, making top-tier scientific education accessible to students from around the world.
A Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology can lead to lots of career options around the world. You could work in clinical research, making medicines, helping the environment, or even starting your own biotech business. It’s also a great starting point if you want to continue your studies and get a master’s or PhD in a specific area of biotech.
Career prospects
Graduates of the Biotechnology program have lots of career options in different areas like science, research, and business. You could work in the research and development teams of biotech or pharmaceutical companies, at universities, or in jobs that make sure labs follow important safety rules (like GLP and GMP)*. You could also help keep workplaces safe, work with patent law, or even be part of sales and marketing where you mix science knowledge with business. Some grads also go into consulting, helping companies with new ideas and technology. With all these choices, you can build a career that fits what you enjoy, whether that’s hands-on lab work, working in the industry, or focusing on the business side of things.
Graduates of the bachelor of biotechnology course also have the opportunity to pursue further studies in related fields. Many continue to a master’s or doctoral degree in biotechnology, bioengineering, or life sciences, enhancing their expertise and research capabilities. This pathway allows students to specialise further and open doors to academic, research, and leadership positions within the global biotechnology industry.
*GLP: Good Laboratory Practice, GMP: Good Manufacturing Practice
Unsure if you meet the requirements? Let us help you!
Where to study biotechnology in Germany
FH Aachen
Location
Aachen
Average cost of living
€860/month
Student population
15,000
University highlight
One of the largest universities of applied sciences in Germany
Technische Hochschule Mannheim
Location
Mannheim
Average cost of living
€800/month
Student population
5,200
University highlight
Located in the second largest city in Baden-Württemberg
RWTH Aachen
Location
Aachen
Average cost of living
€860/month
Student population
45,000
University highlight
One of the most prestigious universities in Germany
Heidelberg University
Location
Heidelberg
Average cost of living
€1,000/month
Student population
31,000
University highlight
Germany’s oldest university and one of the strongest research universities in all of Europe
Choosing universities in Germany can be a bit tricky, as there are many factors to consider. For instance, at the Technical University of Munich, students can choose between Chemical or Molecular Biotechnology.
Students in our programme receive full guidance on selecting the right university. We’d be happy to help you with that too.
Find out how you can study Biotechnology tuition-free in Germany
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why study a Biotechnology degree in Germany?
Germany is one of the top countries for science and technology, and it’s known for having great universities. If you study Biotechnology there, you’ll get high-quality education, access to modern labs, and chances to do cool research. Plus, Germany has lots of biotech companies, so there are good job opportunities for internship or after graduation. And the best part? Many public universities have very low or even no tuition fees!
Studying a Biotechnology degree tuition-free in Germany sounds too good to be true
We are lucky that most public universities in Germany don’t charge tuition fees, even for international students.
As students, what we need to pay is a small semester contribution (around €150 to €350), which helps cover things like student services and public transport.
So, when you study in Germany, you’re getting a world-class education without the high price tag. It’s a smart and budget-friendly choice.
Can I study biotechnology in English?
In Germany, Bachelor’s degree courses in Biotechnology are only available in German, so you’ll need to have a C1 level of German to get in. However, you can study Biotechnology in English if you go for a Master’s degree.
Is it easy to get admission to study biotechnology in Germany?
Most biotechnology courses have an NC (Numerus Clausus), which means there are more people applying than there are spots available. Because of this, the courses are really competitive and tough to get into.
Can I pursue a Master's degree in Biotechnology after finishing my Bachelor's?
Absolutely! After completing your Bachelor’s in Biotechnology, you can definitely go on to pursue a Master’s degree.
Many universities in Germany offer Master’s programs in Biotechnology or related fields, and it’s a great way to deepen your knowledge and specialize in areas like genetic engineering, bioinformatics, or pharmaceutical biotechnology.
Plus, having a Master’s can open up more advanced career opportunities in research, development, and industry.
Best of all? It’s tuition-free and there are some courses offered in English!
How long is the Biotechnology degree programme in Germany?
The Biotechnology degree programme in Germany usually takes:
Bachelor’s degree: About 3 years (6 semesters).
Master’s degree: Around 2 years (4 semesters).
If you complete both degrees, it would typically take you about 5 years. However, the exact length can vary depending on the university and other factors.
For instance, some students choose to extend their studies for an exchange semester abroad, while others might take fewer exams or need to resit some exams.
What are some well-known German companies which hire biotechnology graduates?
Some examples are:
Bayer: one of the largest pharmaceutical companies and biomedical companies in the world
BioNTech: famous for developing one of the COVID-19 vaccines with Pfizer, BioNTech focuses on immunotherapies, especially cancer treatments.
Merck Group: world’s oldest pharmaceutical and chemical company.
Evotec: A company that develops new medicines and treatments.
Start your Bachelor of Biotechnology course in Germany with German Educare. Our team supports you from application to arrival, helping you build a rewarding career in the growing biotechnology industry.