Neurosciences University of Bonn

The MSc Neurosciences programme aims towards an integrated understanding of modern neurosciences over the full spectrum of current research, ranging from molecules and physiology to morphology. A strong emphasis is placed on practical research experience in the laboratories of the participating departments and research groups. Mandatory courses on neuromorphology, neurophysiology, and molecular neurobiology will lay the foundation in the first semester. At the same time, students will have the opportunity to focus their interests on any of these fields or select from a wide spectrum of courses addressing topics such as neuroethology, neurogenetics, clinical neurosciences, cognitive neurosciences, reconstructive neurobiology, neurodegenerative diseases, computational neurosciences, etc. For up-to-date information, see: https://www.neurosciences.uni-bonn.de/.

The MSc Neurosciences course programme is consistently modularised according to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). A total of 120 credit points (30 per semester) will be accumulated during two years of study. For maximum choice and compatibility, the curriculum is divided into modules, combining courses, lectures, seminars, and laboratory work. During the first semester, three compulsory modules (7.5 credit points [CP] each) provide the basics of neuroscience. Additionally, students have to choose one elective module (7.5 CP each) during their first semester. In the second semester, a fourth compulsory module propagates knowledge in statistics, scientific writing, and research ethics. Three elective modules (7.5 CP each) from different research fields complete the second semester. In the third semester, students have to select two elective practical courses (lab rotations, 15 CP each). Finally, in the fourth semester, the programme is completed by writing the Master's thesis (30 CP).
For details and current information, see: https://www.neurosciences.uni-bonn.de/curriculum.

The programme is open to both domestic and international students. Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree or higher in biology, psychology, medicine, physics, or related fields with outstanding grades and/or other study results.

Solid knowledge in subjects such as molecular biology, cell biology, or physiology, as well as laboratory experience in at least one of these subjects, is required as an entrance requirement.

To have a realistic chance of acceptance, you will need to have an average Bachelor's result of at least 78% (in a grading system with a passing level of 50%). The minimum grade for the application is 2.3 in the German grading system.

The University of Bonn is a public university, meaning that it does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay the semester fee of about 350 EUR per semester, which covers a Deutschlandsemesterticket (student transit pass for public transport) and statutory accident insurance, among other things.

Students in Bonn can expect to pay around 1,000 EUR a month, with rent accounting for the largest share of their living costs.

It is possible to apply for student assistant jobs directly at the different institutes at Bonn Medical School or Bonn University.

Some of the principal investigators (PIs) involved in the Bonn MSc Neurosciences programme offer student assistant jobs to candidates during the Master's thesis period.

Several selected students will be offered a student assistant job as a tutor for the freshmen class during the first mandatory modules. Prerequisites include outstanding grades in the relevant modules.

The University of Bonn has a central Career Service (www.uni-bonn.de/careerservice), which provides a range of advice and support about choosing a career and applying for jobs. International students can also join the iStart career programme (www.uni-bonn.de/istart), which teaches participants tangible knowledge and valuable skills that will enable them to write successful applications for jobs in Germany. The programme is geared toward giving students a successful career path both during and after their studies and thus making it easier for them to enter the job market.

Students at the University of Bonn can apply for a room in a dormitory owned by the Studierendenwerk Bonn (see www.studierendenwerk-bonn.de/en/accommodation for more details).

For further information on housing in Bonn, please visit our website at www.uni-bonn.de/living-in-bonn.

As the former capital of Germany and the seat of the United Nations in Germany, Bonn is synonymous with internationality and diversity, and this also applies to the university in its capacity as a globally renowned research institution: In addition to research and teaching partnerships around the globe, it is characterised not least by its diverse student body with more than 5,200 international students and doctoral candidates from over 135 countries.

According to the Times Higher Education World University Ranking for 2026, the University of Bonn is one of the most international universities in the world and occupies the top spot within the diverse university landscape of North Rhine-Westphalia. This international orientation has a long tradition, as the university has maintained relationships with universities abroad for a long time. For example, it has interdepartmental cooperation agreements in place with almost 70 universities around the world.

In addition, the University of Bonn cooperates with more than 300 partner universities within the framework of student exchange programmes. The internationality of the University of Bonn is also reflected in its range of courses: There are now 46 international degree programmes, many of which are taught entirely in English or other foreign languages or lead to a double degree with a partner university.

Bonn is a beautiful and historic city located on the banks of the Rhine and is famous as the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven. At the same time, it is a modern, lively and cosmopolitan city with a high quality of life. Bonn is also the German city of the United Nations, home to 27 UN institutions and many international organisations. With over 5,200 international students from more than 135 countries, the university contributes significantly to the international flair to be found in the city of Bonn.