Cardiovascular Science (MSc) University of Göttingen

The Master's programme in "Cardiovascular Science" is a consecutive full-time study programme taught in English, which has the intention to train international students in all aspects of cardiovascular science. This will be achieved by its modular structure which offers students with a background in natural sciences or human medicine a broad education, not only in the relevant basics but also in modern clinical aspects which are essential for understanding translational research questions. A key feature of this programme lies in its high proportion of individual practical training, allowing students to gain experimental experience and insight into different research questions. After finishing their Master's theses, the graduates will be highly qualified for PhD programmes and their future careers in the field of cardiovascular sciences in academia and industry as well as in related occupational fields.

The MSc programme in Cardiovascular Science contains four theoretical modules (M.CVS.101, M.CVS.102, M.CVS.201, M.CVS.301) with a consecutive curriculum covering basic knowledge on the organ and molecular level of the cardiovascular system, on cardiovascular diseases and therapies as well as on modern aspects of cardiovascular science including "state-of-the-art" work.

Practical work in the laboratory has a high priority in the programme. Within the first three semesters, three laboratory rotations of eight weeks each are to be carried out. The choice of the laboratory and the topic is completely free and according to the student's interest.

First semester:
M.CVS.101: "Cardiovascular Basics I" (lectures, seminars, and practical courses in anatomy, physiology, embryology, endocrinology)
M.CVS.102: "Cardiovascular Basics II" (lectures and seminars in cell biology, biophysics, biochemistry, signal transduction, genetics)
M.CVS.001: eight-week lab rotation I

Second semester:
M.CVS.201: "Cardiovascular diseases and therapies" (lectures, seminars, and practical courses in clinical aspects of cardiovascular diseases, cardiovascular pharmacology, interventional therapies)
M.CVS.002: eight-week lab rotation II

Third semester:
M.CVS.301: "Cardiovascular research in academia and industry" (lectures and seminars in clinical trials, state-of-the-art methods)
M.CVS.003: eight-week lab rotation III

Fourth semester:
Six-month Master's thesis

During the Master's programme, all students carry out three lab rotations of eight weeks each in the research labs of the programme in Göttingen or in research labs in Germany and world wide.

Applicants must hold a Bachelor's or equivalent degree in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology or related fields – degrees in nursery, midwifery or physiotherapy can not be accepted.
For further details, see: https://www.umg.eu/en/study-and-teaching/studieren-an-der-umg/study-programmes/cardiovascular-science/master/frequently-asked-questions-faq/

The fees are around 470 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket, which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as buses. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals are available at reduced prices at university canteens.

The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about 800 to 1,000 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age. International students should note that it is not possible to study in Germany without sufficient financing.

Further information on the requirements for non-EU citizens (proof of finances) can be found on the Visa and Residence Permit page of the International Office.

Because of the intensive nature of the programme, there will not be much time to work while studying.

A number of student jobs are available at the university. They are announced on the following website: www.stellenwerk-goettingen.de

Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or visa. Non-EU students are subject to special regulations.

Some proficiency in German may be indispensable to find a job. Non-EU students are permitted to work a maximum of 120 full days (240 half days) per year.

Students who have been admitted to the programme and are enrolled in it may apply for a scholarship at the university. ONE scholarship is available in each programme for the "Cardiovascular Science":

Germany scholarship: Deutschlandstipendium
Lower Saxony scholarship: Niedersachsenstipendium

The Career Service of the university offers individual support for job entry. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme.

If you are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The university supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts.
Start-up support

The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.

University of Göttingen — Committed to Excellence
Founded in 1737, the University of Göttingen is a research-driven university of high international standing. It is renowned for its diverse range of academic disciplines, research-oriented teaching, and outstanding scientific environment in which more than 45 Nobel laureates have studied, taught, or pursued their research. With about 27,300 students — more than 18 percent of whom are international — and more than 206 degree programmes, the university is one of the largest in Germany.

Variety of study programmes
The University of Göttingen offers a vast variety of academic programmes for undergraduate and graduate studies. Internationally renowned expert researchers teach in more than 40 academic disciplines. More than 40 full-time undergraduate and graduate programmes are taught entirely in English. Five International Max-Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) prepare students for unique careers in scientific research. Additionally, a growing number of double degree programmes with prestigious international universities  available.

Guidance, supervision, and study conditions
Students are given comprehensive advisory and supervisory support in all phases of their studies. Since advice and guidance are crucially important for the successful outcome of a university career, the University of Göttingen is constantly improving and extending its performance in this area.

Excellent library
The Göttingen State and University Library (SUB Göttingen) is one of Germany’s leading academic libraries, with holdings of over ten million books, journals, and other media. It offers a wide range of services to support study and research and plays a key role in numerous national and international projects focused on enhancing access to information and developing digital research infrastructures.

Alumni worldwide
As a member of Göttingen alumni, you will remain part of the international "Göttingen Family" even after your graduation. The alumni association connects alumni worldwide and keeps them informed about current developments at the university and in the city of Göttingen. Through online and offline events, workshops, career support and social projects, it offers numerous opportunities for networking, mentoring, and social commitment.

www.uni-goettingen.de/international-students

Göttingen — A Great Place to Live and Study

Göttingen, with a population of approximately 130,000, is a city where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. Its beautifully preserved timber-framed houses in the historic city centre and the vibrant student population of the University of Göttingen — about 27,300 students — create a lively and welcoming atmosphere that’s hard to match.

The university’s departments and buildings are primarily located on two main campuses, all within easy walking or cycling distance. Student housing for around 4,700 individuals, along with excellent canteens operated by the student services organisation (Studierendenwerk), ensure high quality of life at a low cost.

The university maintains close collaboration with numerous non-university research institutions in Göttingen. Together, they form the Göttingen Campus—an alliance of leading research centres. This includes four Max Planck Institutes , the Göttingen Academy of Sciences and Humanities in Lower Saxony, the German Primate Centre (DPZ), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), and the University Medical Centre (UMG). This collaborative environment fosters openness and innovation, offering opportunities for students at all levels—Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD—to pursue fresh ideas alongside experienced researchers. Many scholars from these institutes also teach at the university, and joint professorial appointments help build strong links between the university and its campus partners. This unique structure reinforces Göttingen’s reputation as one of Germany’s most research-focused universities.

Located in the geographical centre of Germany and Europe, Göttingen enjoys excellent travel connections: Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt are each just a two-hour train ride away. But you don’t need to leave the city to enjoy a break—Göttingen offers a wide range of recreational and cultural activities. The city is home to three theatres, a symphony orchestra, multiple cinemas, cafés, and pubs, providing plenty of opportunities to meet new people and relax. You can also get involved with the student union, which organises a variety of cultural and recreational events throughout the year.

For sports enthusiasts, Göttingen and the university offer a wealth of opportunities. The University Sports Centre (Zentrale Einrichtung für Sport und Gesundheit) is one of the largest in Germany, offering more than 150 different activities at very affordable prices. Facilities include an indoor pool, the RoXx climbing centre, the FIZ fitness studio, and several outdoor sports fields—ensuring something for everyone. You can find the full overview on the official UniSport website.