Master of Science in Precision Medicine Diagnostics (PMD) Furtwangen University

Precision Medicine Diagnostics is a multidisciplinary Master's programme that uses new laboratory and analysis techniques for medical diagnostics.

Students decide individually in which area of precision medicine they wish to specialise. Typical areas are high throughput analysis, personalised medicine with immunological methods or the use of biomarkers, then validated by means of clinical studies.

In the first semester, students are introduced to the fundamental principles of applied medical diagnostics through theoretical instruction. Building upon this foundation, the second semester entails a practical course where students independently conduct experiments from start to finish, including conceptualisation, preparation, implementation, analysis, and result validation. Following this, students have the opportunity to delve into specific areas of interest by undertaking a research project. This phase emphasises the importance of autonomous research guided by robust scientific principles. In the third and final semester, students undertake the composition of their Master's theses. This affords them the chance to develop and/or apply their own innovative ideas in practice or research.

Advancements in classic natural sciences continually contribute to the progress of medical diagnostics, often resulting in expedited outcomes and more effective treatments within the realm of medicine. The Precision Medicine Diagnostics programme was specifically designed to cater to the demand for professionals well-versed in molecular diagnostics.

Topics covered in the programme include novel high-throughput methodologies, personalised medicine (e.g. biomarkers in diagnostics and prognostics), transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics.

For detailed information regarding course content, please refer to the programme website.

A research project of at least four weeks on a current topic, carried out in the second semester, introduces students to independent scientific work and analytical thinking. It may be conducted externally with an industry partner or internally within the university.

The Master's thesis can be undertaken within the university or as an external project with an industrial or research organisation. For those seeking to enhance their foreign language skills and social aptitudes, the option to conduct the thesis abroad is available.

A particularly qualifying professional Bachelor's degree in the field of natural sciences or engineering is required. Admission is possible with a degree in another field, provided the degree closely relates to the content of the Master's programme.

a) Applicants are considered to have direct suitability in terms of initial subject knowledge if they can demonstrate sufficient understanding in at least three of the following subject areas:

• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Molecular biology
• Physiology
• Statistics

Evidence of knowledge may be shown through successful completion of study programmes, modules, or relevant courses as well as professional experience.

b) Practical laboratory experience in biochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, or related fields is a requirement (evidenced by registration lists, grade lists, or employment references).

176 EUR

HFU-cares programme

Apartments or shared flats close to the campus cost 200 to 400 EUR per month. The university provides help in finding a room for admitted applicants (notice boards).

Furtwangen University (HFU) is a state-run university of applied sciences with around 4,600 students. We are located on three campuses in and near the Black Forest area. Being small enables us to focus on quality and the needs of our students. We have a great deal to offer – a dynamic, international atmosphere, forward-looking degree programmes, exciting research opportunities, high-tech facilities, a safe and supportive learning environment, top quality teaching, and close links with the business sector – all in the stunning natural setting of the Black Forest region.

With over 50 innovative and practical degree programmes at both Bachelor's and Master's levels, and the option to do a doctorate in some fields, we provide a wide range of academic opportunities. Our strong international orientation means we offer an ever-increasing number of programmes taught entirely in English, alongside our bilingual and German degree programmes. Students from over 80 different countries around the world have already graduated from HFU. Almost half of our degree courses include an internship in a foreign country and we also encourage our students to take exchange semesters abroad. We make this easy by providing all of the organisational support students need, including the option of studying at one of 140 partner universities around the globe. All of our degrees are internationally recognised and our accreditation award means the high quality of all our degree programmes and services is guaranteed university-wide. Over 170 professors, with top academic and professional qualifications and broad-ranging international experience, provide outstanding teaching. High rankings in European university league tables reflect the excellent reputation for teaching, research, and employability that we enjoy among students and employers.

Our students benefit from small study groups and friendly, personal contact with professors and staff as well as from our outstanding support services and facilities. These include ultra-modern laboratories, a high-tech IT infrastructure, and one of the best university libraries in Germany. As an elite sports university, we also make it easier for top athletes to continue their studies while competing. Excellent study conditions and optimal support in a safe and pristine environment, mean a great learning experience for our students. A practical, top quality, "Made in Germany" degree from a prestigious university guarantees excellent career prospects.

The Schwenningen campus is situated in the twin town of Villingen-Schwenningen (approx. 80,000 inhabitants). Villingen-Schwenningen is home to three universities giving it a large student population with many international students. In the past Schwenningen was a world-famous clock-making town employing thousands of local people in its factories. Nowadays, the factories have gone and Schwenningen is a bustling town with shops, cafés, and restaurants in an attractive pedestrian centre. Students can take advantage of all the amenities the town has to offer including a modern indoor swimming pool, an arena where the local ice hockey team plays in the highest German league, and several cinemas, which also show films in English.

The campus is located in the centre of Schwenningen in the historic setting of the Kienzle clock factory. The campus architecture is an eclectic mix of converted industrial space and ultra-modern buildings. The F-building, completed in 2011, is home to the HFU Business School and the award-winning library. The campus also offers high-tech labs, a well-equipped computer centre, a modern dining hall and cafeteria. A large area of beautifully-landscaped parkland, complete with beach-volleyball court, located immediately adjacent to the campus, provides a relaxing oasis for students in the summer.

The Schwenningen campus has a wide range of student organisations and clubs that regularly host their own business, social, and sports events – something is always happening on campus. And the multitude of indoor and outdoor recreational activities Schwenningen has to offer means there is no shortage of things to do off campus either.

Schwenningen is also an ideal location for exploring Europe. Stuttgart, Constance, and Freiburg are a one-hour train trip away and France, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy are all easily reachable for weekend trips.