MSc Medical Sciences – Cardiovascular Research University of Freiburg

Key Points:

• International, interdisciplinary and integrative
• Pre-PhD programme: Combined experimental and theoretical training in all facets of cardiovascular science
• Student-centric teaching and learning concept with small cohort (up to eight per year!)
• State-of-the-art cardiovascular research and medical facilities at one of Germany’s top universities
• Historic university town with vibrant student life and exceptional recreational opportunities

The English-language Master’s programme in Medical Sciences – Cardiovascular Research was designed as a preparatory year for a PhD in the field of cardiovascular research. The curriculum combines a thorough education in general aspects of the structure and function of the cardiovascular system with clinical insights into the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, as well as exposure to "wet and dry lab" basic and clinical work. In the first semester, theoretical and clinical contents as well as interdisciplinary competences are taught, while the second semester focuses on the independent preparation of a Master's thesis and thus on the various aspects of scientific work.

Module components cover theoretical and practical aspects, with a strong focus on hands-on training, from single cardiomyocyte contraction and action potential measurements, to Langendorff beating heart studies, advanced structure-function imaging of healthy and diseased hearts, derivation and evaluation of one's own stress electrocardiogram, and observing open-chest surgery.

In addition to broadening the knowledge and skills base, the course offers an introduction to prerequisites, opportunities, and consequences of medical activity, and it familiarises students with the ethical dimension of medical practice and research.

The English-language Master’s programme in Medical Sciences – Cardiovascular Research offers a broad and deep familiarisation with the cardiovascular system, and the opportunity to specialise in hands-on cardiovascular research.

The one-year curriculum is divided into two parts: the first consisting of a taught course to develop breadth and depth of understanding in the subject matter and advanced laboratory and clinical techniques; the second is dedicated to implementing an individual research project (= MSc thesis).

Applicants should hold a four-year hons. BSc (240 ECTS) or equivalent degree with a grade point average of at least 2.0 in life sciences, natural sciences, bio-/engineering, mathematics, computer sciences, human/veterinary medicine, physiological sciences, or a similar subject. Also acceptable are a three-year BSc + two successfully completed semesters of an MSc or a BSc + completed MSc in the above-mentioned subjects with a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or better. Applications are welcome even if the required degree has not yet been awarded by the time of application, as long as it will be conferred before the course starts in early September.

The list of certificates given here is not complete, so please check this website for a list of all accepted language certificates.

190 EUR per semester:

• Administrative fee: 80 EUR
• Contribution to the constituted student body: 7 EUR
• Contribution to the student union: 103 EUR

Participants must ensure that sufficient funding is available to finance their participation in a course of study. The average cost of living in Freiburg for one month is currently approx. 850 EUR to 1,000 EUR.

Some details:

• Rooms in private accommodation, including extra costs: 350 EUR – 700 EUR
• Rooms in student residences, including extra costs: 250 EUR – 550 EUR
• Private expenses amount to around 350 EUR per month.
• Health insurance is available for approx. 120 EUR per month.
• Transport: A special student ticket for regional transport costs approx. 96 EUR per semester.

Successful candidates can apply for a scholarship hosted by the Neue Universitätsstiftung Freiburg. Scholarships would support housing and living costs and allow students to fully focus on the programme. You can find all information on the webpage of the Neue Universitätsstiftung.

As Freiburg is an attractive city, finding a suitable and affordable place to live can take a little while. The University of Freiburg offers all newly enrolled international students the possibility to apply for student housing via the International Office. In addition to these dormitories, which are run by the Studierendenwerk Freiburg (www.swfr.de/en), several independent residence halls are listed on the university website (https://uni-freiburg.de/internationaloffice-en/housing/). The Studierendenwerk Freiburg and the International Office also offer a list of available private rooms.