Students undertake modules to the value of 120 credits (cr; ECTS) according to their study track and personal study plan. The Master’s Degree consists of
The curriculum of the Programme will in principle enable completing 90 cr in 12 months (full-time studying and utilizing study opportunities during the summer months, and not including the Master’s Thesis research project). However, completing the Programme in 2 years is recommended, as it will give more flexibility with the optional studies. Career planning or extracurricular activities may be included in the personal study plan.
Download the new 2023-2026 GMB degree sturucture
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Students studying for qualification as biology teachers will have 60 cr of pedagogical studies in their degree (applies only to Finnish or Swedish speaking students).
In this Master's Programme you can specialise according to your interests by choosing between four study tracks:
What are the molecular mechanisms underlying life´s processes at the most fundamental level?
The study track of Biochemistry and Structural Biology focuses on macromolecular structure and function and molecular interactions. Research laboratories associated with the study track use a wide range of modern techniques and experimental and computational approaches relevant to address the molecular basis of key biological phenomena.
The courses provide the student with up-to-date theoretical knowledge in biochemistry and structural biology and strong hands-on methodological experience through lab rotations and thesis work. In addition to quantitative and analytical skills, the courses support the development of creative and critical thinking and good communication skills.
Examples of courses:
What is the code of life, how is it interpreted and how does its variation lead to different traits and diseases?
The study track of Genetics and Genomics covers the structure and function of genes and genomes. Current research in this field requires a strong integration of theoretical knowledge, experimental approaches and computational data analysis. Achieving such integration is the key learning objective of the study track. The student will obtain strong knowledge on
and will learn to apply this knowledge to address questions in
The student will learn key concepts and methods currently in use in genetics and genomics. Practical courses will strengthen the student’s laboratory skills and ability to carry out statistical and bioinformatic data analysis. Further training can be obtained by participating in research at local research groups. The student will also learn transferable skills, including critical thinking, scientific writing, project management and presentation of research to professional and general audiences.
Examples of courses:
How do cells function, what makes them so diverse, and how do their complex interactions guide the normal development of multicellular organisms?
The study track in Cell and Developmental Biology covers
The University of Helsinki has strong research traditions in many aspects of cell and developmental biology, particularly in
Our teaching methods include lectures, student seminars, writing exercises, laboratory courses and practical training in expert laboratories. Our mission is that the student should become
In addition, the students will also learn transferable skills, including scientific writing, project management and presentation of research to both professional and general audiences.
Examples of courses:
Which molecules and networks underpin human health? How can these be analyzed and used in personalized health strategies?
Molecular and Analytical Health Biosciences (MAB) -study track aims to train life science experts with an in-depth understanding of the analytics of biomolecules and their functional networks in health. After completing the Master’s programme, the graduates will have the expertise to handle omics-based big data and combine it with an understanding of traditional laboratory testing.
The MAB specialization course, ”Integrative biosciences for health” provides
In addition to a wide selection of courses in the other GMB study tracks, the students can widen their perspective of health biosciences by attending courses e.g. in immunology, pharmacy and nutrition. A spectrum of human molecular health-oriented research projects at the University of Helsinki are obtainable for MAB students in the form of laboratory training and/or as the practical part of their master’s thesis.
Students will also acquire transferable skills such as analytical thinking, scientific writing and project management. Interaction with companies and other Biohealth actors and stakeholders is facilitated during studies.
Examples of courses: