MSc Chemistry Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg

The Master's degree programme in Chemistry offers you the unique opportunity to design your studies according to your personal interests and professional goals. Choose three from nine different focus subjects and set your own professional priorities. This flexible structure opens up a variety of paths in research, industry and beyond. The programme, taught in English, aims to prepare you for a PhD or direct entry into the professional world.

Our fully-accredited two-year Master's programme comprises 120 ECTS credits. You will select three of nine focus subjects, two from the core focus subjects of inorganic, organic and physical chemistry and then either the remaining core subject or one of the following additional specialised focus subjects: 

• Functional Materials
• Homogeneous Catalysis
• Medicinal Chemistry
• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Theoretical Chemistry
• Biochemistry (currently requires some German language skills)

You do not need to select your focus subjects at the time of application, giving you the opportunity to explore. 

More information on the individual focus subjects can be found at: https://www.chemie.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/students/study-programmes/chemistry/master/example-focus-subject-combinations/.

You will need to complete 25 ECTS credits per focus subject, totalling 75 ECTS credits. Each focus subject offers a mix of required and elective courses, allowing you even more control over your degree programme, as well as many practical courses, so that you gain valuable experience in the lab. 

An additional 15 ECTS credits will come from the supplementary subjects. These must include at least one, up to two, additional courses from the focus subject areas, and at least one of the following: 

• didactic scientific lecturing
• internship abroad
• competences inside or outside the natural sciences related to chemistry

The Master's thesis, with 30 ECTS credits, rounds out the degree programme. 

• 15 July for a start in the winter semester
• 15 January for a start in the summer semester

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage international applicants to apply as early as possible in order to ensure enough time for visa applications and preparing your start in Würzburg (e.g. housing search).

Admission to the Master's programme in Chemistry requires a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, with demonstrated experience in the areas of inorganic, organic, and physical & theoretical chemistry. Additionally, experience in practical courses must be clear through your transcript. Conditional admittance is possible if you are applying before fully completing your Bachelor's degree.

Full information on application and admission: https://www.chemie.uni-wuerzburg.de/en/students/study-programmes/chemistry/master/application-and-admission/

There are generally no tuition fees at the University of Würzburg. However, each semester, students are required to pay a contribution for enrolment or registration. This fee, approximately 180 EUR, not only supports various student services but also includes a semester ticket that grants you unlimited access to public transportation throughout the city of Würzburg.

Living in Würzburg is quite affordable compared to other German cities, making it an attractive option. While individual lifestyles vary, here is an estimate of typical costs:

• Food: 300 EUR
• Rent: 350 to 500 EUR
• Student health insurance: 140 EUR

Würzburg offers a vibrant student life with plenty of affordable options for dining, entertainment, and leisure activities. The University of Würzburg, its student representation and wider network of local partners help you manage your budget effectively, also by offering student discounts.

Finding part-time employment in Würzburg is a great way to gain experience, make new connections, and supplement your finances while studying. Students from EU and EEA countries enjoy equal terms in the labour market and can work freely during their studies. Students from other countries can work up to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, including voluntary internships. If you wish to work more, you'll need permission from the employment agency ("Agentur für Arbeit") or the immigration office.

It's important to ensure that your studies remain your top priority, so choose a side job that complements your academic schedule. The University of Würzburg offers resources to help you find part-time work, such as the student job portal. 

The University of Würzburg is dedicated to helping international students and future professionals thrive. The Career Centre is your gateway to job entry, offering courses to develop transdisciplinary skills and personalised counselling at every stage of your academic journey. The Transfer Team fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, providing guidance on intellectual property, business formation, and industry connections. The Centre for Teaching and Learning is a treasure trove of resources, including the Writing Centre, which offers workshops, one-on-one consultations, and collaborative writing groups to enhance your academic writing skills. The Alumni Service keeps the Würzburg spirit alive with mentoring programmes and networking events.

Finding the perfect place to live is an important part of your student experience at the University of Würzburg. Unlike some other countries, students in Germany need to find their own accommodation, as universities do not automatically provide it. At the University of Würzburg, you have two main options: "Studierendenwerk" housing or private rooms/student halls.

The Student Housing Service ("Studierendenwerk") manages 12 student residences in Würzburg, offering a total of 2,887 rooms. These dormitories provide a variety of amenities:

• Single and double rooms or apartments shared by two to four students, with communal kitchens and bathrooms

• Furnished rooms and apartments are available, though you'll need to bring your own dishes, cooking items, bedding, and towels.

To apply for housing, note the deadlines: 15 June for the winter semester and 15 January for the summer semester. For more information about private rooms and student halls, visit the Central Student Advisory Service.

In addition to Studierendenwerk housing, there are many private accommodation options available:

• Shared apartments ("Wohngemeinschaften" or "WGs"): These are popular among students and offer a great way to meet new people and share living costs.

• Private student halls: These are often run by private companies and offer similar amenities to Studierendenwerk dormitories. They can be a bit more expensive but may offer more modern facilities.

• Short-term accommodation: If you need a place to stay while you search for permanent housing, consider options like hostels, guest houses, or short-term rentals.

Remember to start your housing search early and stay positive! With a bit of patience and diligence, you'll find a cosy place to call home.