Master
English
Mathematics & Natural Sciences
Matter to Life
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
About the Program
The Master's degree program, Matter to Life (MtL), at Heidelberg University and University of Göttingen is part of the Max Planck School Matter to Life and focuses on the areas of chemistry and engineering for molecular systems. This joint degree program provides students with a multidisciplinary education by integrating foundations of chemistry with aspects from the fields of physics, molecular systems, engineering and biosciences. The curriculum focuses on understanding the chemistry and physics of life and of the components of living systems, quantitative analysis of life, and engineering of molecular and nanoscopic entities as the basis of life-like materials. The program addresses questions like "What is life?" and "Can life-like processes, functions and objects be quantitatively described, simulated, predicted and created in the laboratory?" The work focuses on methods to describe, model, and harness the laws of physics and chemistry that dictate biological processes. The program is heavily research-oriented and structured over 4 semesters, with the first year focused on theory and the second year on practical experience including lab rotations and a Master thesis.
▶ Show the original English text
The Master's degree program, Matter to Life (MtL), at Heidelberg University and University of Göttingen is part of the Max Planck School Matter to Life and focuses on the areas of chemistry and engineering for molecular systems. This joint degree program provides students with a multidisciplinary education by integrating foundations of chemistry with aspects from the fields of physics, molecular systems, engineering and biosciences. The curriculum focuses on understanding the chemistry and physics of life and of the components of living systems, quantitative analysis of life, and engineering of molecular and nanoscopic entities as the basis of life-like materials. The program addresses questions like "What is life?" and "Can life-like processes, functions and objects be quantitatively described, simulated, predicted and created in the laboratory?" The work focuses on methods to describe, model, and harness the laws of physics and chemistry that dictate biological processes. The program is heavily research-oriented and structured over 4 semesters, with the first year focused on theory and the second year on practical experience including lab rotations and a Master thesis.
Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?
Related profession searches from Bundesagentur für Arbeit (BERUFENET) data:
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Molecular Systems Chemistry and Engineering
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How do I apply to Matter to Life at Universität Heidelberg?
Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.
- Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
- Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
- Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
- Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
- Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Matter to Life at Universität Heidelberg
Is Matter to Life at Universität Heidelberg taught in German or English? ▼
This Master programme is taught in English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.
How much does the Matter to Life programme cost? ▼
161 EUR / semester. International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.
What are the admission requirements for Matter to Life at Universität Heidelberg? ▼
Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).
When is the application deadline? ▼
Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.
Can I work in Germany while studying Matter to Life? ▼
Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.
How do I apply to Universität Heidelberg — directly or via uni-assist? ▼
Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.