Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology bachelor degree programme

Would you like to play a part in improving the quality of life of millions of patients around the world? The Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology bachelor programme will give you the opportunity to do just that.

Biotechnology is one of the world’s fastest growing research disciplines. There is an urgent need for experts, managers and researchers who are qualified to work in the industry. As a graduate, you will have the expertise to contribute to the development of groundbreaking innovations in the field.

The degree programme

The Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology bachelor degree is taught in English and comprises theoretical courses and extensive laboratory practicals that cover the fundamentals of natural sciences, biomedicine and the applicable technologies.

The main topics are

Medical biotechnology

Lectures and laboratory exercises on biochemical processes, cell and molecular biology, and genetic engineering – including the various analytical techniques – provide a solid knowledge base. You will also gain insights into human medicine and pharmaceutical science in order to acquire an understanding of the effects of medicines and their production.

Pharmaceutical biotechnology

This is an important part of the degree: courses on the theoretical principles and practical implementation of processes used in the biopharmaceutical industry. These cover aspects such as the design of biopharmaceutical production processes and the basics of planning the related production facilities.

In the lab-based courses, a model process set-up is used to illustrate important concepts.

Quality management

High quality in the medical and pharmaceutical industry is crucial for safety of drugs and biopharmaceuticals. Accordingly, thorough knowledge of quality management is essential.

Fundamentals of business

Besides acquiring fundamental scientific knowledge, you will also focus on biotech entrepreneurship and drug regulatory affairs and prepare for working in an interdisciplinary environment.

Strong focus on practical work

Starting from the first semester you will intensively put into practice the theoretical knowledge you acquired in the laboratory. This includes microbiology, biochemistry, genetic engineering, cell culture and working with bioreactors, and enables you to conduct your own research project in the 5th semester internship. The results can be the basis of your bachelor thesis.

International opportunities

During the second year you can go for an exchange semester to one of our partner universities (Dublin, Linköping, Nijmegen, Vlissingen).

A particularly attractive option is the dual degree we offer together with Turku University of Applied Sciences in Finland. Besides obtaining a bachelor of science at IMC Krems, you will also be accredited with completing the Biotechnology and Chemical Engineering programme at our partner institution.

Find out more about the reseach projects

Student Stories

Biotechnology

Biotechnology is an interdisciplinary subject encompassing aspects of medicine, chemistry, biology, physics and pharmacy. Findings from this broad discipline are exploited using integrative approaches.

In this way, they can be implemented to develop biological systems for the production of therapeutic molecules or antibodies, for instance for cancer treatments.

New treatment methods

Biotechnology has developed into a key technology for the future by providing innovative new active substances and diagnostic methods.

There is an increasing focus on stem cells and the cultivation of human tissue in medical biotechnology research. This generates new treatments for previously incurable diseases.

Medical and pharmaceutical technology is by its nature an extremely interdisciplinary field, with the natural sciences, biomedicine and technology playing an especially important role.

Studium Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology - Mann mit Pipette

Studium Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology - Mann und Frau mit Notizbuch

Studium Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology - Frau zeigt auf Landkarte

" Medical and pharmaceutical theory combined with extensive lab work: our graduates have a solid foundation on which to build when embarking on careers in biotechnology. They will play a part in tackling problems to which medicine cannot currently provide adequate solutions, and will have the chance to improve the quality of life of people all over the world. "
Programme director Harald Hundsberger

A formula for success: theoretical knowledge + practical experience

The programme is built on three pillars.

1
1. The basics
Semesters 1-4
You will study a comprehensive range of medical and pharmaceutical biotechnology topics during your degree. Courses at the beginning of the programme cover the fundamentals of science, biomedicine, engineering and analysis in preparation for the more advanced subjects that come later. The curriculum also includes quality management, business fundamentals and project management.
You will receive a lot of practical training in the lab right from the very start. You will be introduced to scientific procedures in small groups, which you put into practice straight away.
2
2. The internship
Semester 5
The compulsory internship semester is scheduled for semester 5. Over 50% of our Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology students complete their internship abroad at international companies, research institutes or universities.
We provide you with support before and during your internship: you identify your strengths and evaluate your development potential in the course of one-to-one coaching from our internship coordinator, who will then help you to find a suitable internship place at a company in Austria or abroad.
Looking to gain even more international experience? In semester 3 or 4 you can go for an exchange semester at one of our partner universities.
3
3. Electives
Semester 6
Towards the end of the programme you opt for one of two electives: the medical biotechnology specialism Production of Therapeutic Proteins or the pharmaceutical biotechnology specialism Drug Development Management.
The goal of medical biotechnology is the replacement of damaged cells or organs, not with transplants or dialysis, but with naturally grown cells. Pharmaceutical biotechnology is concerned with manufacturing medical and pharmaceutical products and related operations. Antibiotics, which are produced with the help of microorganisms in large bioreactors, are examples of established biotechnology products. Monoclonal antibodies and other therapeutic proteins are key elements in the development of personalised medicine.

Curriculum

What can you expect from your studies? The curriculum provides an overview.
Click on the individual courses for further information.

Course	SWS	ECTS
Fundamentals in Mathematics
Applied Mathematics
Applied Mathematics - Theory	2	3
Applied Mathematics - Theory Module: Applied Mathematics Root module: Fundamentals in Mathematics Semester: 1 Course code: AMTI1VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Performing calculations with indices and logarithms (common and natural logarithms) Solving and applying quadratic equations and functions (linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential and trigonometric [sin, cos and tan]) Differentiation (first and second derivatives) Integration (standard integrals) Basic principles of statistics: statistical analysis of measurements – samples and population, averages and their graphical representation empirical dispersion (range, linear distribution and empirical standard deviation) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: use applied mathematics assumptions and carry out calculations, apply calculations and interpret examples out of biotechnology. practice
Applied Mathematics - Exercise	1	1
Applied Mathematics - Exercise Module: Applied Mathematics Root module: Fundamentals in Mathematics Semester: 1 Course code: AMEI1UE Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Practical exercises on lecture topics Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: use applied mathematics assumptions and carry out calculations, calculate and interpret examples out of biotechnology practice.
Introduction to Data Science I	1	1
Introduction to Data Science I Module: Fundamentals in Mathematics Root module: Fundamentals in Mathematics Semester: 1 Course code: IDSI1VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Fundamentals of IT Efficient usage of Microsoft Office applications, in particular Excel (table structures and calculations, graphical analysis of data) Software: commercial applications and open source (databases, statistics programs) Network architecture (company network, process control systems) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the basics of computer architecture, and data processing, use Microsoft applications (e.g. Excel) for data processing, anasylis and graphical presentation, explain the basics of data processing using different software applications.
Introduction to Laboratory
Introduction to Laboratory Techniques	1	1
Introduction to Laboratory Techniques Module: Introduction to Laboratory Root module: Introduction to Laboratory Semester: 1 Course code: ILT1LB Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Basic techniques for laboratory-based scientific work Safety training and working with safety data sheets Introduction to laboratory equipment (glassware, etc.) Using laboratory equipment (e.g. scales, pH meters and spectrophotometers) Basic laboratory techniques Handling acids, bases and organic solvents Working with indicators Producing solutions and serial dilutions; calculating concentrations and estimating errors Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: perform the basic practical skills associated with day-to-day laboratory work, produce simple buffers and solutions, apply fundamental measurement techniques such as pH measurement, describe important safety regulations for laboratory work.
Basics of Chemistry
Chemical Calculations	1	2
Chemical Calculations Module: Basics of Chemistry Root module: Basics of Chemistry Semester: 1 Course code: CC1VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Application-based calculations in a laboratory environment; determining and working with physical units Information on concentrations: calculating molarity, moles, percentages, normality and density Determining the stoichiometry of chemical reactions Classification of inorganic compounds Determining oxidation state; calculating pH values Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: apply basical calculations underpinning biotechnology in examples (e.g. calculations for concentrations, reactions, pH values, etc.), explain the fundamental scientific principles and laws of chemistry.
General and Inorganic Chemistry	3	4
General and Inorganic Chemistry Module: Basics of Chemistry Root module: Basics of Chemistry Semester: 1 Course code: GIC1VO Contact hours per week: 3 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Introduction to chemistry Importance of mass and units in the natural sciences Atoms and atomic models The periodic table Chemical bonds Chemical equilibrium Fundamentals of thermodynamics Reaction kinetics Properties of the elements and their inorganic compounds Acids and bases Redox reactions Solubility of salts Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the fundamental scientific principles and laws of chemistry, illustrate key chemistry concepts underpinning biotechnology, and demonstrate and apply this knowledge in examples (e.g. calculations for concentrations, reactions, pH values, etc.).
Analytical Chemistry, Laboratory	2	3
Analytical Chemistry, Laboratory Module: Basics of Chemistry Root module: Basics of Chemistry Semester: 1 Course code: ACL1LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Basic day-to-day laboratory methods illustrated using analytical chemistry experiments Qualitative analysis methods: alkali, alkaline-earth and heavy metals, halogens, sulphates and carbonate detection Quantitative analysis methods: gravimetry, various forms of titration (acid-base, redox and complex titration) Equilibrium reactions, reaction kinetics Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: illustrate key chemistry concepts underpinning biotechnology, and demonstrate and apply this knowledge in examples (e.g. calculations for concentrations, reactions, pH values, etc.), carry out basic qualitative and quantitative analysis methods in the laboratory, apply basic day-to-day laboratory methods illustrated using analytical chemistry experiments.
Basics of Physics
Applied Physics - Theory	2	3
Applied Physics - Theory Module: Basics of Physics Root module: Basics of Physics Semester: 1 Course code: APT1VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Fundamental physical values Equations of motion Equations of motion on a single plane Force and momentum Movements along an orbit Fields and energy Work and power Material physics Thermodynamics Geometric optics and waves Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain basic physical/scientific principles (f.e Thermodynamics,..), identify physical values that have a significant effect on biotechnological processes.
Applied Physics - Laboratory	3	4
Applied Physics - Laboratory Module: Basics of Physics Root module: Basics of Physics Semester: 1 Course code: APL1LB Contact hours per week: 3 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Working with devices Evaluating measurements and estimating errors Determining the molar mass of an unknown substance Laws of gases Heat transfer Conductivity Viscosity Spectrometers/goniometers Determining heat levels required for melting and evaporation Surface tension Molecular physics Absorption spectra Determining elementary charge Determining the Faraday constant Thermodynamics Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: perform and interpret simple, yet fundamental physical experiments, record and evaluate results of measurements, estimate errors in the results generated and write reports, explain fundamental physical processes on the basis of experiments.
Human Medicine I
Anatomy and Physiology	2	2
Anatomy and Physiology Module: Human Medicine I Root module: Human Medicine I Semester: 1 Course code: AP1VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Cells and their functions Basics of cell communication Tissue structure Anatomy and physiology of organs and blood Homeostasis in the human organism Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the most important physiological processes in the human body, explain contributions of organs and systems to the maintenance of homeostasis.
Human Genetics	1	2
Human Genetics Module: Human Medicine I Root module: Human Medicine I Semester: 1 Course code: HG1VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Introduction to human genetics Mendelian inheritance Exceptions to Mendel’s laws Sexuality and heredity Multi-factor hereditary characteristics DNA and chromosomes Genetic polymorphism Replication, transcription and translation Mutation and hereditary diseases Population genetics Human evolution Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: illustrate the complexity and diversity of genetic processes, illustrate the connection between genetic information and cellular structure.
Microbiology
Applied Microbiology	1	2
Applied Microbiology Module: Microbiology Root module: Microbiology Semester: 1 Course code: AM1VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Introduction to microbiology Structure of bacterial cells Bacterial growth, kinetics, media and conditions for growth Growth monitoring and sterilisation Basics of bacterial metabolism Introduction to systematics, and archaea Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain bacterial cells and their growth, explain and evaluate growth monitoring methods and tools, explain and evaluate sterilization methods, illustrate principles of bacterial metabolism and principles of bacterial systematics, compare the differences between bacteria and archea.
Microbiological Working Techniques Laboratory	2	2
Microbiological Working Techniques Laboratory Module: Microbiology Root module: Microbiology Semester: 1 Course code: MWT1LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Students learn about basic techniques in microbiology: Producing media and plates Working under sterile conditions Cultivating and quantifying microorganisms and growth curves Staining methodes Microscopy Growth monitoring and sterilisation Course outcome: Upon completion of the course, students are able to: explain and apply the concept of sterility and recognize sources of contamination, perform basic microbiological methods like growing microorganisms, staining them, using the microscope etc., plan simple experiments, document the experiments properly, analyse critically method and outcome of experiments and sum it up in a written report, Sum up the critical analysis in a presentation and present the results.

Course	SWS	ECTS
Organic Chemistry
Organic Chemistry - Theory	2	3
Organic Chemistry - Theory Module: Organic Chemistry Root module: Organic Chemistry Semester: 2 Course code: OCT2VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Basic concepts of organic chemistry Chemistry of carbon Types of covalent bond Simple hydrocarbon compounds (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes and cycloalkanes) Functional groups in organic chemistry Aromatic and heterocyclic compounds 3D structures and classification of organic compounds (isomers, chirality and conformations) Reaction mechanisms: nucleophiles and electrophiles Substitution reactions Elimination reactions Polymerisation reactions Chemistry of amino acids Alkaloids and carbohydrates Presentation and discussion of basic scientific principles Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the theoretical principles of organic chemistry, with a focus on component categories and reaction mechanisms, apply practical organic separation and detection skills and synthesise simple organic compounds, explain documentations on synthesis reactions and estimate the related risks.
Organic Chemistry - Laboratory	2	3
Organic Chemistry - Laboratory Module: Organic Chemistry Root module: Organic Chemistry Semester: 2 Course code: OCL2LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Basic organic chemistry techniques and basic synthesis Distillation and detection of alcohol Aspirin synthesis and analysis (thin-layer chromatography, analysing melting points, recrystallisation and UV detection) Producing soap and detergents Carbohydrate analysis Reaction kinetics Vitamin C detection Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: apply practical organic separation and detection skills and synthesise simple organic compounds, apply documentation on synthesis reactions and estimate the related risks, perform moderate complex laboratory experiments.
Human Medicine II
Human Diseases	1	1
Human Diseases Module: Human Medicine II Root module: Human Medicine II Semester: 2 Course code: HD2VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Basic physiological principles of regulation, adaptation and homeostasis Central pathophysiological processes in the human organism Key human illnesses, like - Cancer - Immune disorders - Hormonal disorders Course outcome: explain and analyze pathophysiological links, explain and classify common human illnesses, explain biotechnological treatment options.
Immunology and Medical Microbiology	2	2
Immunology and Medical Microbiology Module: Human Medicine II Root module: Human Medicine II Semester: 2 Course code: IMM2VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Structure and function of the immune system Humoral immune responses Cell-mediated immune responses Infectious diseases Human microbiome Viruses Bacterial pathogens Prions, viroids and parasites Options for prevention and therapy Course outcome: illustrate the most important components of the immune system and explain their interplay and communication, classify the different groups of pathogens and explain their interaction with the immune system, Explain preventive methods and therapies, analyze selected topics from immunology and medical microbiology and present them.
Microbiology and Pharmaceutical Production Environment
Microbiological Monitoring, Laboratory	2	2
Microbiological Monitoring, Laboratory Module: Microbiology and Pharmaceutical Production Environment Root module: Microbiology and Pharmaceutical Production Environment Semester: 2 Course code: MML2LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Basic microbial techniques Surface, air and water monitoring Isolating and identifying bacteria Disinfection and sterilisation Work in accordance with SOPs Preparing SOPs Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: illustrate the statutory regulations applicable to pharmaceutical production, explain the conditions required for microbial monitoring, exlain and apply surface, air and water monitoring methods in connection with microbes, explain and apply techniques for isolating and identifying microbes, prepare/write and apply standard operating procedures (SOPs), keep records of results, measurements, results of analytical tests and samples, independently plan simple experiments, analyse and present results of the experiments.
Introduction to Contamination Control and Clean Room Training	1	1
Introduction to Contamination Control and Clean Room Training Module: Microbiology and Pharmaceutical Production Environment Root module: Microbiology and Pharmaceutical Production Environment Semester: 2 Course code: CCCT2UE Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Introduction to statutory regulations applicable to pharmaceutical manufacturing Requirements for clean rooms Description of classes of clean room Principles and flow conditions in clean rooms Demonstration: putting on clean room clothing Familiarisation with and understanding special requirements for working in clean rooms Behaviour in clean rooms Microbiological and particle monitoring methods Minimising contamination in clean rooms Planning clean rooms Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: summarize the requirements for clean rooms and apply the knowledge for cleanroom concepts, compare/summarize the various classes of clean rooms, apply putting on clean room clothing correctly, compare/summarize and apply the specific requirements for working in clean rooms.
Biophysics
Applied Biophysics	2	3
Applied Biophysics Module: Biophysics Root module: Biophysics Semester: 2 Course code: ABP2VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Introduction to electricity (Ohm’s law, Kirchhoff's circuit laws) electromagnetic waves physical principles and characteristics of synthetic and biological membranes, characterisation of biomembrane properties (Langmuir scales, photobleaching, electrons and atomic force microscopy) cell biophysics: cell characterisation methods (determining viscosity, patch clamp, cell electrophoresis, light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, confocal fluorescence microscopy, cell impedance) radiophysics and its applications in nuclear medicine: principles of nuclear physics, dosimetry, nuclear medical procedures (gamma camera, PET, kinetic examinations, immunoscintigraphy) environmental biophysics. Certain topics will be examined in greater detail using sample calculations and demonstrations. Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the physical principles and modern analytical methods that underlie biomedicine, explain the principles of nuclear physics, dosimetry, nuclear medical procedures (gamma camera, PET, kinetic examinations, immunoscintigraphy).
Biophysics Laboratory	2	3
Biophysics Laboratory Module: Biophysics Root module: Biophysics Semester: 2 Course code: BPL2LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Experiments will be performed on electricity, magnetism and the following basic biophysical phenomena: sound and sound propagation, phase transitions in polar fluids, characterisation of electrolytes, optical instruments and the characterisation of various sources of visible radiation, partial pressure in gaseous mixtures, radioactivity and adsorption. Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: apply/use analytical instruments and spectrum interpretation, use operating instructions and other common forms of documentation for the use and maintenance of instruments.
Biostatistics and Data Analysis in Biotechnology
Biostatistics	2	4
Biostatistics Module: Biostatistics and Data Analysis in Biotechnology Root module: Biostatistics and Data Analysis in Biotechnology Semester: 2 Course code: BST2VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Descriptive statistics: Averages (arithmetic, geometric and harmonic mean, and median) Dispersion (variance, standard deviation and coefficient of variation) Histograms and frequency distributions Box plots Simple linear regression Inferential statistics: Parametric tests (comparing independent and paired means, analysis of varianceNon-parametric tests (comparing independent and paired means, and analysis of variance) Tests on categorial data Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the conceptual basis of statistical tests used in the field of biotechnology and life sciences, select suitable statistical tests for biotechnology questions, carry out such tests using relevant software, interpret and analyze the results obtained from biostatistical testing.
Introduction Data Science II	1	2
Introduction Data Science II Module: Biostatistics and Data Analysis in Biotechnology Root module: Biostatistics and Data Analysis in Biotechnology Semester: 2 Course code: IDSII2VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Employ tools for data integration and analysis (e.g. KNIME) for generating workflows aiming at reading in large amounts of data processing data visualizing data analyzing data Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: implement customized workflows for data analysis and integration, analyze real-life data relevant for life sciences.
Molecular Biology of the Cell
Cell Biology	2	3
Cell Biology Module: Molecular Biology of the Cell Root module: Molecular Biology of the Cell Semester: 2 Course code: CB2VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells (plant/animal cells) Cell organells: nucleus (chromosomes), endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, mitochondria, peroxisomes, endosomes, and lysosomes Biological membrane systems and molecule transport (carrier etc.) Sorting of proteins (from the ER to the cell exterior/)lysosomes/PM Cytoskeleton, intermediate filaments, microtubules and actin Motorproteins Exocytosis and endocytosis Cell migration Mitosis (Cell Division) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: compare prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and between plant and animal cells, explain the function of the various cell compartments and cell organelles, the detailed mechanism of cell division, cell movement and cell clusters, and communication between cells.
Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering - Theory	2	3
Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering - Theory Module: Molecular Biology of the Cell Root module: Molecular Biology of the Cell Semester: 2 Course code: MBGE2VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Amino acids and proteins Structure and function of DNA Replication Transcription and checking transcripts Translation Recombination DNA sequencing and PCR Isolating nucleic acids Cloning strategies Vector systems and expressions of recombinant proteins Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain genetic processes such as replication, transcription, translation and recombination, illustrate the theoretical principles for working with nucleic acids, cloning genes and expressing recombinant proteins.

Course	SWS	ECTS
Medical Biology
Cell Physiology and Medical Molecular Biology	2	3
Cell Physiology and Medical Molecular Biology Module: Medical Biology Root module: Medical Biology Semester: 3 Course code: CPMB3VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Cell communication and signal transduction Regulating the cell cycle (G1, DNA synthesis and mitosis) Regulating apoptosis Ion channels and transporters Physiology of nerve cells Structure and physiology of epithelia Stem cells, proliferation and cell differentiation Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain general physiological processes in eukaryotic cells, classify and carry out mechanistic evaluation of individual cell communication and signal transduction pathways.
Cell Culture Techniques	1	1
Cell Culture Techniques Module: Medical Biology Root module: Medical Biology Semester: 3 Course code: CCT3VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Cell culture laboratory equipment: clean benches, incubators, centrifuges and light microscopes Biological safety and hazardous substances Growth media and components Transfection, transduction and transformation Primary cells and cell lines Flow cytometer Confocal microscopy RNAi techniques and the CRISPR/Cas system Assay formats in applied cell biology research Cell disruption and analysis Cell-based testing systems for screening of active ingredients Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the theoretical principles as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the most important (and most often used) techniques and technologies in modern cell biology.
Cell Culture Laboratory I	2	3
Cell Culture Laboratory I Module: Medical Biology Root module: Medical Biology Semester: 3 Course code: CCL3LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Working under sterile conditions Waste disposal and autoclaving Determining cell counts Thawing and freezing eukaryotic cells Growth curves of eukaryotic cells Passaging suspension cultures and adherent cells Genetic manipulation of cell lines Light and fluorescence microscopy Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: use equipment and devices used in cell biology research in order to address scientific questions, independently apply fundamental experimental techniques used in cell biology research.
Theoretical and Practical Biochemistry
Biochemistry - Theory	3	4
Biochemistry - Theory Module: Theoretical and Practical Biochemistry Root module: Theoretical and Practical Biochemistry Semester: 3 Course code: BCHT3VO Contact hours per week: 3 ECTS: 4 Course Content: The properties of water and aqueous solutions Fundamentals of biological thermodynamics Nucleotides and nucleic acids Amino acids proteins Carbohydrates Lipids and biological membranes Enzymes Introduction to metabolsim Glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and glycogen metabolism Citric acid cycle Oxidative phosphorylation and photosynthesis Fat metabolism Amino acid metabolism Nucleotide metabolism Regulation of metabolic pathways in complex organisms Metabolic disorders, the molecular principles behind them, and therapies Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the basic physical chemistry principles behind living systems, distinguish between the structural principles of biomolecules in terms of their chemical basis, delineate and asses the metabolic pathways used to produce energy and synthesize biomolecules within organism, explain regulation and the interplay between the most important metabolic pathways.
Biochemistry - Laboratory	2	2
Biochemistry - Laboratory Module: Theoretical and Practical Biochemistry Root module: Theoretical and Practical Biochemistry Semester: 3 Course code: BCHL3LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Producing buffers Biochemistry techniques: dialysis, gel filtration and methods for determining protein content SDS-PAGE, western blotting for serums and quantitative ELISA Enzyme kinetics Risk analysis and evaluation of corresponding experiments Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: apply state-of-the-art methods for isolating and analyzing biomolecules, use methods learned in the Biostatistics course to analyze the data obtained, analyze and interpret the experimental data generated.
Laboratory Skills for Biotechnology
Bioanalytics - Theory	1	2
Bioanalytics - Theory Module: Laboratory Skills for Biotechnology Root module: Laboratory Skills for Biotechnology Semester: 3 Course code: IAT3VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: • Centrifugation • UV-vis spectroscopy • Fluorescence spectroscopy • Electrophoresis • Chromatography • Mass spectrometry Course outcome: • explain the physical principles and modern analytical methods that underlie biomedicine, • compare main analytical technologies in the area of Biotechnology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (f.e. genetic engineering).
Bionalytics - Laboratory	3	5
Bionalytics - Laboratory Module: Laboratory Skills for Biotechnology Root module: Laboratory Skills for Biotechnology Semester: 3 Course code: IAL3LB Contact hours per week: 3 ECTS: 5 Course Content: • Determining cytotoxicity using luminescence spectrometry • PCR and qPCR • Fluorescence spectroscopy • DNA/protein quantification, UV/vis spectroscopy • Chromatography • Performance qualification for analytical instruments Course outcome: • apply main analytical technologies in the area of Biotechnology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (f.e. genetic engineering), • work with nucleic acids, • apply calibration and maintain measuring devices, • carry out practical experiments in a quality-controlled environment.
Genetic Engineering Laboratory	2	3
Genetic Engineering Laboratory Module: Laboratory Skills for Biotechnology Root module: Laboratory Skills for Biotechnology Semester: 3 Course code: GEL3LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: • Working with E. coli • Transforming E. coli • Plasmid preparation • Restriction digestion • DNA gel electrophoresis • Calibrating pipettes • Spectrophotometrically measurements Course outcome: • apply calibration and maintain measuring devices (f.e.microlitre volume), • perform basic experiments of molecular biology.
Fundamentals of Engineering
Measurement and Control Systems I	1	1
Measurement and Control Systems I Module: Fundamentals of Engineering Root module: Fundamentals of Engineering Semester: 3 Course code: MCSI3VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Basics of sensor technology and sensor/control engineering, and their application in biotechnology Fundamentals of electrotechnology Measuring systems (conversion and classification) Sensor design (interfaces, signal processing) Sensor systems (pressure, flow and temperature sensors) Control engineering systems (PI, PD and PID controllers) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the fundamental measurement principles of electronics and their application in controllers for bioprocess technology, explain and interpret technical drawings and circuit diagrams, correctly carry out the properties of materials in use.
Bioprocess Technology Theory I	1	1
Bioprocess Technology Theory I Module: Fundamentals of Engineering Root module: Fundamentals of Engineering Semester: 3 Course code: BTT3VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Introduction to bioprocess technology Hydrostatics Hydrodynamics Pumping fluids and characteristic curves of pumps Piping Net Positive Suction Head and Total Dynamic Head Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain Hydrostatics and solve corresponding examples, understand Hydrodynamics and solve corresponding examples, apply the Bernoulli-equation to ideal and realistic calculations and solve corresponding tasks, apply/use calculations of Total Dynamic Head and Net Positive Suction Head for instalments.
Quality Management and GLP
Introduction to Quality Management	1	1
Introduction to Quality Management Module: Quality Management and GLP Root module: Quality Management and GLP Semester: 3 Course code: IQM3VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Quality assurance in companies by means of procedural instructions underpinned by specifications and SOPs Quality management in companies (vision, mission, strategy) Quality management cycle Quality controls Indicators Quality assurance Practical exercises in which students draw up and present simple specifications, SOPs or procedural instructions Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain and interpret quality assurance processes for pharmaceuticals, explain and interpret the key statutory regulations applicable to the production of biopharmaceuticals.
GLP/GMP - Theory	1	1
GLP/GMP - Theory Module: Quality Management and GLP Root module: Quality Management and GLP Semester: 3 Course code: GGT3VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Statutory regulations on GLP and the set-up of GLP test laboratories Responsibilities, test set-ups and carrying out studies in accordance with GLP Overview of statutory regulations on GLP and the set-up of production facilities Core aspects of quality management at production facilities in accordance with GLP Quality assurance for biopharmaceuticals produced in accordance with GLP GLP/GMP regulations during biotechnology research and development processes Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain and can apply GLP regulations by planing and generating of study plans, explain and apply Quality Controll at production facilities in accordance with GMP, illustrate and apply GMP regulations by planing and preparing of documents.
Practical Training in Industry
Practical Training Application and Preparation	1	1
Practical Training Application and Preparation Module: Practical Training in Industry Root module: Practical Training in Industry Semester: 3 Course code: PAP3SE Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: Writing CVs and covering letters Career and internship opportunities in industry and research Coaching support with internship applications Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: generate application documents, choose a suitable place for Practical Training Semester (PTS), illustrate different career paths in biotechnology.
Applied Bioinformatics
Bioinformatics	2	2
Bioinformatics Module: Applied Bioinformatics Root module: Applied Bioinformatics Semester: 3 Course code: BIN3VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Key biological databases and online tools: NCBI, EBI and ExPASy Tools for visualising biomolecules Sequence comparison and alignment of biomolecules Bioinformatics tools used in functional genome analysis Bioinformatics tools used in proteomics Bioinformatics tools in the laboratory: primer design, in silico cloning and calculating biomolecular properties Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain, analyse and interpret sequential and structural differences of biomolecules, use internet tools to analyze the evolutionary relatedness of proteins and nucleic acids, use internet tools and software to analyze the structure, function and properties of biomolecules, explain and use tools for daily laboratory work such as primer design and in silico cloning.

Course	SWS	ECTS
Pharmaceutical Production Processes
Protein Purification and Bioprocess Technology
Biochemical Analytics, Protein Purification	2	4
Biochemical Analytics, Protein Purification Module: Protein Purification and Bioprocess Technology Root module: Pharmaceutical Production Processes Semester: 4 Course code: BAPP4VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: This course outlines the principles behind the following methods: Chromatographic principles (IEX, affinity, HIC, SEC, partition and adsorption) Chromatographic equipment (HPLC, FPLC, GC and SCFC) including detectors Proteomics methods (electrophoresis including CE, and blotting) Spectroscopy methods (UV-Vis, IR, Raman, MS including ionisation, and NMR) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain analytical methods in chromatography, spectroscopy, electrophoresis, explain and develop analytical processes using principles of chromatography, electrophoresis and spectroscopy.
Equipment and Production Design	2	3
Equipment and Production Design Module: Protein Purification and Bioprocess Technology Root module: Pharmaceutical Production Processes Semester: 4 Course code: EPD4VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Components in biopharmaceutical production facilities (WFI and ultra-pure steam; utilities, description of equipment for the production of cell inoculants, bioreactors) including exercises Downstream equipment Instrumentation in pharmaceutical production facilities QM element: preparing device specifications Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: illustrate the key components of biotechnology facilities and installations and describe their basic functions, summarize and apply the basic steps involved in commissioning a biotechnology production facility, explain the principles of upstream and downstream processes, apply principles of typical equipment and production design to typical biopharmaceutical tasks.
Bioprocess Technology Theory II	2	4
Bioprocess Technology Theory II Module: Protein Purification and Bioprocess Technology Root module: Pharmaceutical Production Processes Semester: 4 Course code: BPTTII4VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Fundamentals of Reactor Design Fundamentals of Mass Balance Fundamentals of Heat Balance Kinetics in Bioprocess Technology Sterilisiation Techniques Principles of Fermentation Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain and solve problems correlating with mass and heat balances, apply rules of bioprocess kinetics to typcial tasks like fermentation development, explain and apply typical sterilisation procedures, explain and apply principles of balancing, sterilisation and bioprocess kinetics.
Fermentation and Bioseparation Laboratory, Data Analysis	3	4
Fermentation and Bioseparation Laboratory, Data Analysis Module: Pharmaceutical Production Processes Root module: Pharmaceutical Production Processes Semester: 4 Course code: FBL4LB Contact hours per week: 3 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Structure and operation of fermentation in bioreactors Conducting fed-batch fermentation with bacteria Process management and problem-solving In-process and offline analytics Measuring, evaluating and interpreting process parameters during fermentation, and their effect on biological aspects of processes Practical skills required for working with bioreactors under sterile conditions Handling analytical devices (glucose measuring devices, FPLC, etc.) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: use scale tasks, pipeline system configurations, pump calculations, power inputs in stirred tanks, and heat and mass balancing at biopharmaceutical plants, use calculations for the configuration and management of biopharmaceutical processes, explain the connections between technology and microbiology, establish quality management principles in pharmaceutical processes.
Cell and Tissue Engineering
Cell Culture Laboratory II	3	5
Cell Culture Laboratory II Module: Cell and Tissue Engineering Root module: Cell and Tissue Engineering Semester: 4 Course code: CLLII4LB Contact hours per week: 3 ECTS: 5 Course Content: Theoretical principles: - Cell-based testing of active ingredients - Organotypic 3D cultivation and tissue engineering - Personalised medicine Relationship between genotypes and sensitivity to active ingredients - Tissue engineering methods - Cellular microreactors and their application Practical work: - Engineering blood vessels - Engineering organotypic 3D microtumours - Analysing and quantifying the invasive behaviour of tumour cells and 3D microtumours - Confocal immunofluorescence microscopy: determining the intra-cellular localisation of proteins - Reporter gene assays: quantifying activity in transcription factors Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: discuss key topical issues in cell biology research, independently plan and carry out complex experimental work, perform qualification and validation of experimental techniques, analyse and interpret data and results.
Scientific Skills	2	3
Scientific Skills Module: Cell and Tissue Engineering Root module: Cell and Tissue Engineering Semester: 4 Course code: SSK4SE Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Literature databases with a focus on NCBI and PubMed Academic journals and the peer review process Rating, impact factor and academic quality Structure and content of scientific papers Writing academic articles: wording, style and structure (title, introduction, material and methods, results, discussion, references and acknowledgements) Guidelines for the title and introduction Presenting data and results Interpreting and discussing results, taking into account current knowledge Using software to manage references (Endnote, Reference Manager and Mendeley) Original scientific papers, review articles, bachelor, master and doctoral theses Funding scientific work Preparing and submitting research proposals Presenting work packages, milestones and targets Austrian and international funding bodies Fundamentals of scientific communication Communicating with stakeholders Careers in science and research: academia and industry Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: carry out literature searches in databases, summarise and evaluate the results of experiments in a scientific paper and prepare the paper for publication, explain the peer review process, take part in active scientific discourse.
Applied Quality Management
GLP/GMP - Seminar	2	4
GLP/GMP - Seminar Module: Applied Quality Management Root module: Applied Quality Management Semester: 4 Course code: GGL4SE Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Core aspects of GMP/GLP in practice / QM Documentation (GDP) Presentation of a GLP laboratory set-up / Theoretical background Detailed describing of experiments and procedures in Study Plan and Study Audit Report (Audit during the laboratory week) Lot Data Sheets Compiling the expected results Writing study reports; SOPs; Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: identify the basic statutory regulations applicable to biopharmaceutical manufacturing, explain quality assurance processes for pharmaceuticals.
Genetic Engineering Laboratory under GLP	2	3
Genetic Engineering Laboratory under GLP Module: Applied Quality Management Root module: Applied Quality Management Semester: 4 Course code: GELG4LB Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Advanced molecular biology Independently carrying out a complex experiment planned and prepared by students in GLP/GMP seminar Techniques: DNA isolation, restriction analysis; quantification of DNA; DNA Extraction from agarose gel, agarose electrophoresis, ligation, preparation of competent cells, transformation and colony PCR / GLP documentation of all procedural steps Approaches to GLP-compliant documentation of results generated in experiments and summarising the results in study report Experiments will be carried out in the form of a GLP study Laboratory Audit Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: independently apply knowledge of regulatory frameworks in practice, and draft SOPs and study plans carry out simple qualification of measuring devices in a quality-controlled environment generate plans for the most common methods and analytical techniques used in molecular biology, apply them under GLP-compliant conditions, and analyse and record the results

Course	SWS	ECTS
Scientific Methods and Tools
Bachelor Paper and Bachelor Exam
Bachelor Seminar I	1	5
Bachelor Seminar I Module: Bachelor Paper and Bachelor Exam Root module: Scientific Methods and Tools Semester: 5 Course code: BAI5BASE Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 5 Course Content: Definition of topic for bachelor paper Content and structure of bachelor paper Writing a bachelor paper proposal in accordance with the applicable guidelines Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: independently write a bachelor paper proposal of the required length which adheres to academic guidelines by a pre-agreed deadline, establish links between their chosen topic and the wider subject area generate and correctly formulate a research question and develop a suitable research methodology, critically reflect on their approach (research questions and methodology).
Practical Training in Industry
Practical Training Semester	0	25
Practical Training Semester Module: Practical Training in Industry Root module: Practical Training in Industry Semester: 5 Course code: PTS5BOPR Contact hours per week: 0 ECTS: 25 Course Content: The practical training semester is spent in a company or research institution in the field of biotechnology and students learn to know the daily work life in these institutions. Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: work in the professional field of biotechnology.

Course	SWS	ECTS
Elective Module 1: Production of Therapeutic Proteins
Journal Club for Current Issues
Journal Club for Current Issues	1	2
Journal Club for Current Issues Module: Journal Club for Current Issues Root module: Elective Module 1: Production of Therapeutic Proteins Semester: 6 Course code: S1_JCCI6SE Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Literature research on the latest trends in the relevant field Reviewing relevant literature Presenting results of the literature review Discussion of contents of the selected literature Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: structure and analyse scientific articles in their specialist field and use them for their thesis, apply literature research in the relevant field.
Recombinant Protein Technologies
Measurement and Control Systems II	1	2
Measurement and Control Systems II Module: Recombinant Protein Technologies Root module: Elective Module 1: Production of Therapeutic Proteins Semester: 6 Course code: S1_MSCII6VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Principles of control technology User software applications for control systems: analogue and digital signals, analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue converters, microcontrollers, control systems (programmable controllers); incl. independent programming and testing Process control technology theory: the individual components and functions of a biotechnology process control system Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: analyse control systems and apply them to new situations, create and use control and regulation algorithms.
Pharmaceutical Protein Production Systems	1	2
Pharmaceutical Protein Production Systems Module: Recombinant Protein Technologies Root module: Elective Module 1: Production of Therapeutic Proteins Semester: 6 Course code: S1_PPPS6VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: The components of a biotechnology facility, and their installation, commissioning and correct operation Biotechnology production processes illustrated using examples of selected microbial production systems (E. coli, yeasts) and eukaryotic production systems (CHO) Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: apply and analyse biotechnology processes, explain biotechnology production facilities,
Regulatory Environment for Biopharmaceuticals	1	2
Regulatory Environment for Biopharmaceuticals Module: Recombinant Protein Technologies Root module: Elective Module 1: Production of Therapeutic Proteins Semester: 6 Course code: S1_REB6VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Special regulatory requirements in manufacturing of biopharmaceuticals The nature and regulatory aspects of biopharmaceuticals for human use, including basics of regulatory toxicology testing Establishing a robust manufacturing process for biopharmaceuticals in a highly regulated environment: Drug substance manufacturing, control strategies, setting specifications, stability testing Development of special groups of medicinal products: Biosimilars, Blood Products, Vaccines, Veterinary products, Herbal and Homeopathic Medicinal Products Regulatory considerations on Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products and further modalities Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain the regulatory environment in the approval of modern biopharmaceuticals, understand the concept of biosimilars.
Validation and Biomaterials
Introduction to Validation	1	2
Introduction to Validation Module: Validation and Biomaterials Root module: Elective Module 1: Production of Therapeutic Proteins Semester: 6 Course code: S1_IIV6VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Fundamentals of validation: legal principles, validation pyramid, equipment qualification (IQ, OQ, PQ) Basics of test validation (e.g. sensitivity, reproducibility and robustness) Basics of facility validation including an exercise involving the preparation of user requirements specifications and functional specifications Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain and use standard terminology such as qualification and validation in the biotechnology industry, explain and apply fundamentals of validation.
Elective Module 2: Drug Development Management
Journal Club for Current Issues
Journal Club for Current Issues	1	2
Journal Club for Current Issues Module: Journal Club for Current Issues Root module: Elective Module 2: Drug Development Management Semester: 6 Course code: S2_JCCI6SE Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Literature search on the latest trends in the relevant field Reviewing relevant literature Presenting results of the literature review Discussion of contents of the selected literature Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: structure and analyse scientific articles in their specialist field and use them for their thesis, apply literature research in the relevant field.
Management and Marketing
Principles of Management and Marketing	2	3
Principles of Management and Marketing Module: Management and Marketing Root module: Elective Module 2: Drug Development Management Semester: 6 Course code: S2_PMM6VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Business objectives and principles Economics (market structures, legal framework) Marketing (market analyses, market strategies) Management and human resource management Management principles Recruitment and training Accounting and management control Financing, procurement, production Operational management Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain and implement marketing strategies in the pharmaceutical industry, apply theoretical marketing knowledge in practice-related situations, anaylse relationships in complex decision-making scenarios and develop effective courses of action as part of a team, illustrate and analyse competition between rival companies, explain and apply the basics of strategic marketing planning.
Biomedical Regulations
Clinical Studies and GCP	1	3
Clinical Studies and GCP Module: Biomedical Regulations Root module: Elective Module 2: Drug Development Management Semester: 6 Course code: S2_CLG6VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Pharmacovigilance, drug safety Informed consent Drug development Documentation Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: carry out independent critical evaluation of the design and execution of clinical trials, apply the fundamental principles of good clinical practice (GCP) in line with international standards, as well as basic principles of quality and project management.
Drug Regulatory Affairs	1	2
Drug Regulatory Affairs Module: Biomedical Regulations Root module: Elective Module 2: Drug Development Management Semester: 6 Course code: S2_DRA6VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Approval of a new product Efficacy, safety and patient information Labelling of packaging Maintaining approval Required documentation, options for making changes to approvals Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain and apply domestic and international regulatory frameworks for the approval of drugs and medical products, illustrate the content of a marketing approval dossier, explain and apply product information and labelling guidelines.
Scientific Methods and Tools
Bachelor Paper and Bachelor Exam
Bachelor Seminar II and Bachelor Paper	1	8
Bachelor Seminar II and Bachelor Paper Module: Bachelor Paper and Bachelor Exam Root module: Scientific Methods and Tools Semester: 6 Course code: BAII6BASE Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 8 Course Content: Composing the bachelor paper based on the research proposal Preparation of bachelor paper including project planning Topic-focused literature research Applying content-related and academic requirements Presentation of selected chapters Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: independently generate an academic paper in accordance with content-related and formal academic requirements, critically analyse selected chapters of their paper and their significance, discuss the applicability of the results to other cases and questions.
Bachelor Exam	0	2
Bachelor Exam Module: Bachelor Paper and Bachelor Exam Root module: Scientific Methods and Tools Semester: 6 Course code: BEX6AP Contact hours per week: 0 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Presentation of bachelor paper (and project), Oral examination on the bachelor paper (in accordance with section 16 Fachhochschul-Studiengesetz [University of Applied Sciences Studies Act]), and the links to related subjects on the curriculum (in accordance with section 16 University of Applied Sciences Studies Act). Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: present their bachelor paper and the question they addressed in a manner appropriate to the target audience, and defend the paper before an expert committee, examine the significance of the findings for professional practice and research, and present supporting arguments, answer follow-up questions on degree-programme subjects and the links between them, and justify their answers.
Pharmaceutical Sciences
Pharmacology	2	4
Pharmacology Module: Pharmaceutical Sciences Root module: Pharmaceutical Sciences Semester: 6 Course code: PHM6VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 4 Course Content: Pharmacokinetics Pharmacodynamics Pharmacology of the autonomic nervous system Antimicrobial substances Antiviral substances Chemotherapy Allergies and asthma Coagulation Cardiovascular pharmacology Steroid hormones Metabolic syndrome Course outcome: explain the interaction of substances with cells and tissue, explain how medications interfere with signalling pathways in order to produce a therapeutic effect, explain unwanted side effects of medications, explain the administration, spread, excretion, decomposition and toxicity of medications in the human body, differentiate between various categories of substances and mechanisms of action.
Current Issues in Molecular Medicine	1	1
Current Issues in Molecular Medicine Module: Pharmaceutical Sciences Root module: Pharmaceutical Sciences Semester: 6 Course code: CIMM6SE Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 1 Course Content: External specialists will be invited to speak about current issues in molecular medicine, giving an insight into their specialist area and working environment. Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to use practical examples from research and industry to evaluate and solve problems associated with substance development.
Material Science and Biomaterials	1	2
Material Science and Biomaterials Module: Pharmaceutical Sciences Root module: Pharmaceutical Sciences Semester: 6 Course code: S1_MSB6VO Contact hours per week: 1 ECTS: 2 Course Content: Classification of chemical substances, general materials science and the properties of materials Material selection for specific facilities and pieces of equipment Biocompatibility of materials Metals and their applications in process technology Plastics and their applications in process technology Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: explain biopharmaceutical quality documentation and use documentation for new requirements, analyse the properties of materials and select the correct materials for a specific task.
Project Management
Project Management in Life Sciences	2	3
Project Management in Life Sciences Module: Project Management Root module: Project Management Semester: 6 Course code: PM6VO Contact hours per week: 2 ECTS: 3 Course Content: Projects: targets, focal points, structural plan, definition of work packages, cost budgeting and environmental analysis Corporate organisational structures Project controlling Project reporting and closing Project scorecard Final project report Crises in projects Good Clinical Practice Course outcome: Upon completion of this course students are able to: plan, manage and implement projects in an international environment, plan and execute tasks in the complex, interdisciplinary setting of the pharmaceuticals industry, plan / generate and evaluate a set-up for the implementation of clinical trials, and assess the regulations that underlie them.

Key features

What makes our Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology programme so special? Here’s an overview.

The Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology bachelor programme is one of the world’s most comprehensive biotechnology degrees focused on red biotechnology, making it compatible with many biomedicine master programmes offered internationally.

Numerous research projects mean that the latest international research topics are frequently integrated into the curriculum, and work for bachelor and master papers is often part of research projects at our Institute for Biotechnology.

Studying and working abroad

Your English-language, industry-focused bachelor degree will lay the foundations for an international career. Half of the lectures and exercises are taught by experts with research or business experience. Many of them come from well-known universities, leading research institutes and research companies in Austria and 22 other countries.

Our university participates in numerous research partnerships with top universities such as Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Harvard University and the Garvan Institute in Sydney – as well as 3,000 other institutions across the world. The close relations we enjoy with our partners enable you to take advantage of many exchange opportunities and gain international experience.

Another highlight: the Institute for Biotechnology organises an annual scientific conference, which gives our students and alumni the chance to network with international speakers from research and industry.

More about the IMC Life Sciences Week

Lab work: practice makes perfect

As well as acquiring fundamental theoretical knowledge, one of the main objectives of our programme is to equip students with practical skills by including plenty of laboratory work. You do laboratory practicals from the first semester onwards. Importantly: all students are guaranteed a workspace in our state-of-the-art microbiology and molecular biology labs and our chemistry and physics labs.

You also develop a good command of standard research, analysis and production methods, as well as learning basic laboratory skills. Laboratory excises form part of the fundamentals of biology, analysis, biotechnology, bioprocess technology and quality management elements of the programme.

Your internship semester – an opportunity to gain first-hand insights into day-to-day research and working life – also gives you additional practical experience.

Excellent career prospects

When you graduate, you can look forward to outstanding job opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry and at technology companies, as well as at research institutes involved in stem cell, regenerative medicine, pharmaceutical development and bioprocess engineering research.

Your impressive skill set will encompass quality control and marketing, and the development, production and approval of biotechnologies for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. The ideal preparation for the jobs of the future.

Career paths

After completing the Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology bachelor degree, you will have excellent career prospects thanks to a curriculum that is closely aligned to the needs of industry and research.

Graduates of the programme are in high demand because of their interdisciplinary training and unique skills profile.

After obtaining your bachelor, you have the choice of starting a career or enrolling for a full-time or part-time master degree. Our tip: the Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnologymaster degree is designed to dovetail seamlessly with our bachelor programme.

And, of course, there is the option of taking a related master degree at another Austrian or foreign university.

Potential entry-level positions
biotechnological production and biotechnology process development
routine biomedical laboratory work or applications-based laboratory research
quality assurance for processes and products
approval, marketing and sales of medical products
auditing and inspection of biotechnology products at regulatory and service organisations

10 good reasons

What makes us special? We are more than happy to tell you about the aspects of our university, which we are especially proud of.

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Krems

Friendly and cosmopolitan: The city attracts students from all over the world, who come to study, research and work together.

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Service centers

Our university has removed a host of administrative hurdles, leaving you free to concentrate fully on your studies.

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Advisory Service

Do you have questions regarding our degree programmes or the application? Contact our Prospective Student Advisory Service.

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Subscribe to our newsletter for prospective students

Sign up for our newsletter for prospective students to receive valuable tips on starting your studies directly in your inbox. Information about our comprehensive study and service offerings, as well as upcoming info events, is naturally included. We are confident: Our newsletter will make the path to your dream studies much easier.

Request our programme brochures

Are you interested in receiving brochures conveniently at your doorstep? Within Europe, we will send you our programme brochures by mail.

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Opinions: Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Click through the videos of the degree programme.

Information events

IMC Open House 2025
Saturday
02/22/2025
09:00 - 15:00
IMC Open House 2025
Still undecided? The IMC Krems Open House helps with your choice of studies.
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Krems

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Our Team

Get to know the core team of our bachelor degree programme Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology.

Prof.(FH) Priv.-Doz. Mag. Dr. Harald Hundsberger
Head of Institute Biotechnology / Programme Director Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 521
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt G
Recombinant Protein Expression, Cell Culture Models, Peptide Engineering,
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Prof.(FH) Priv.-Doz. Mag. Dr. Harald Hundsberger
Head of Institute Biotechnology / Programme Director Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Head of Institute Biotechnology / Programme Director Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Prof.(FH) Priv.-Doz. Mag. Dr. Harald Hundsberger
Core Competencies
- Recombinant Protein Expression, Cell Culture Models, Peptide Engineering,

Prof.(FH) Dr. Barbara Entler
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 361
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Microbiology
Biological Safety
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Prof.(FH) Dr. Barbara Entler
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Prof.(FH) DI Bernhard Klausgraber
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 348
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Inorganic and Organic Chemistry
Fermentation Development and Optimization
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Prof.(FH) DI Bernhard Klausgraber
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Prof.(FH) Dr. Christian Klein
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 522
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Computer-Aided Drug Design
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Prof.(FH) Dr. Christian Klein
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Prof.(FH) Priv.Doz. Dr. Reinhard Klein
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 883
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Virology
Molecular biology
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Prof.(FH) Priv.Doz. Dr. Reinhard Klein
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Dr. Christoph Metzner
Programme Director Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 775
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Dr. Christoph Metzner
Programme Director Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Prof.(FH) Mag. Dana Mezricky
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 322
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
GMP/GLP
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Prof.(FH) Mag. Dana Mezricky
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Dipl.Biol. Maren Pflüger, PhD
Scientist Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 529
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt D
Inflammation
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Dipl.Biol. Maren Pflüger, PhD
Scientist Institute Biotechnology
Prof.(FH) DI Dominik Schild
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 501
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Fermentation development
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Applied Chemistry
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Prof.(FH) DI Dominik Schild
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Hon.-Prof.(FH) DI (FH) Rita Seeböck, PhD
Scientific Projekt Staff Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 574
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Molecular Pathology
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Hon.-Prof.(FH) DI (FH) Rita Seeböck, PhD
Scientific Projekt Staff Institute Biotechnology
Prof.(FH) Mag. Dr. Christoph Wiesner
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Institute Biotechnology
+43 2732 802 276
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Cell and Molecular Biology
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Prof.(FH) Mag. Dr. Christoph Wiesner
Professor (FH) Institute Biotechnology
Dipl.-Ing. Dr. techn. Sarita Paudel
Senior Lecturer Institute Digitalisation and Informatics
Institute Digitalisation and Informatics
+43 2732 802 193
[email protected]
IMC Campus KremsIMC Campus Trakt U, UC
Informatics
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Dipl.-Ing. Dr. techn. Sarita Paudel
Senior Lecturer Institute Digitalisation and Informatics
Dr. Christian Lubich
Head of Institute / Institute Krems Bioanalytics
Institute Krems Bioanalytics
+43 2732 802 179
[email protected]
IMC TFZIMC TFZ Nebenhaus (Verwaltungsgebäude 2)
Immunology
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Dr. Christian Lubich
Head of Institute / Institute Krems Bioanalytics
Mag. Dr. Peter Allacher
Head of Operations / Institute Krems Bioanalytics
Institute Krems Bioanalytics
+43 2732 802 281
[email protected]
IMC TFZIMC TFZ Nebenhaus (Verwaltungsgebäude 2)
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Mag. Dr. Peter Allacher
Head of Operations / Institute Krems Bioanalytics
Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Franz Herzog
Endowed Professor / Head Mass Spectrometry / Institute Krems Bioanalytics
Institute Krems Bioanalytics
+43 2732 802 218
[email protected]
IMC TFZIMC TFZ Haupthaus (Verwaltungsgebäude 1)
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Master of Science in Engineering / full-time
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Dipl.-Ing. Dr. Franz Herzog
Endowed Professor / Head Mass Spectrometry / Institute Krems...
Dr. Benjamin Neuditschko
Postdoc / Institute Krems Bioanalytics
Institute Krems Bioanalytics
+43 2732 802 173
[email protected]
IMC TFZIMC TFZ Haupthaus (Verwaltungsgebäude 1)
Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
Bachelor of Science in Engineering / full-time
Projekte & Publikationen
Projects & Publications
Dr. Benjamin Neuditschko
Postdoc / Institute Krems Bioanalytics

Application and admissions – the next steps

You've found a course that's a perfect fit? Great – you’ve already taken the most important step! We’ve put together an overview to guide you through the next steps.

What are the admission requirements for bachelor programmes?

To qualify for admission to a university of applied sciences bachelor degree programme, you must have an Austrian school-leaving certificate or an equivalent qualification.

Do you have a school-leaving certificate issued outside Austria?

We’ll check to make sure it’s equivalent to an Austrian certificate in accordance with section 4 of the University of Applied Sciences Studies Act (FHG) when you’ve sent us all the relevant documentation via our online application tool. If it is not an equivalent, you’ll receive information on the supplementary examinations you’ll need to pass. In a nutshell, you will have the option of completing a summer school and the necessary supplementary examinations at IMC Krems or look for an external provider. In that case, you might consider our cooperation partner, the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria: It offers a one-year International Foundation Programme which provides you with all the necessary qualifications you need in order to start your studies in Krems.

What proof of your language skills is required for our English-language bachelor degree programme?

We’ll assess your English language proficiency at your interview, so there is no need to provide additional evidence of your English skills.

Important
Do you still need to complete your military or alternative service? If you’re a male Austrian citizen, we strongly recommend completing your compulsory national service before beginning your studies. This will allow you to finish your degree with no interruptions and start your career without delay afterwards.

Application interview

We would like to get to know you as a person:
As part of the online application you will have to write a statement of motivation and a short essay on a topic relevant to the degree programme. Predefined questions about your motivations as well as the requirements and topics for your essay can be found in the online application. You choose one of the suggested topics, conduct research to broaden your knowledge, deal with the issues and bring your own point of view to the essay. Your answers are to be entered in the fields provided.

Your statement of motivation and your essay form the basis for your application interview. Every applicant has an opportunity to introduce themselves in a face-to-face discussion, usually with the degree programme director. In addition to the personal introduction and your motivation to study, the applicant and the interviewer discuss the topic selected and the arguments used in the essay, as well as the topic’s relevance for the degree programme.

The application interview is held in the language of instruction of the degree programme and can take place either online via Microsoft Teams or in presence.

After the application interview, your statement of motivation, the essay and your performance throughout the interview are assessed on the basis of the content-related remarks, the manner in which they express themselves and the arguments used.

Interview dates

There is usually a selection of dates to choose from, with quotas allocated for each date. You can select a preferred date and time slot for your admission interview during the online application process. In order to still benefit from the full selection of dates, we recommend that you submit your application in good time.

Get an overview of the dates for your programme.

No dates available at the moment.

After you have successfully completed your online application, your application will be checked for completeness and correctness. As soon as this process is completed, we will inform you by e-mail and confirm the date for your admission interview. We will send you the Microsoft Teams Meeting Link in a separate e-mail a few days before the application interview date.

Application for the next study year possible from 01/12/2024

Application deadline for EU nationals	17/04/2024
Application deadline for non-EU nationals	15/04/2024

You've decided for one of our degree programmes? First of all: congratulations and thank you for choosing us! We’ll be happy to guide you step-by-step through your online application.

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You would like to plan ahead and would like to know when your degree programme starts? Here you will find the answer!

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Questions about the degree programme?

Prospective Student Advisory Service

Do you have questions regarding the entry requirements, the admission procedure and more? Our Prospective Student Advisory Service is happy to help.

+432732802222

[email protected]

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Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology bachelor degree programme

Would you like to play a part in improving the quality of life of millions of patients around the world? The Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology bachelor programme will give you the opportunity to do just that.

The degree programme

The main topics are

Medical biotechnology

Pharmaceutical biotechnology

Quality management

Fundamentals of business

Strong focus on practical work

International opportunities

Biotechnology

New treatment methods

A formula for success: theoretical knowledge + practical experience

1. The basics

2. The internship

3. Electives

Curriculum

Applied Mathematics - Theory

Applied Mathematics - Exercise

Introduction to Data Science I

Introduction to Laboratory Techniques

Chemical Calculations

General and Inorganic Chemistry

Analytical Chemistry, Laboratory

Applied Physics - Theory

Applied Physics - Laboratory

Anatomy and Physiology

Human Genetics

Applied Microbiology

Microbiological Working Techniques Laboratory

Organic Chemistry - Theory

Organic Chemistry - Laboratory

Human Diseases

Immunology and Medical Microbiology

Microbiological Monitoring, Laboratory

Introduction to Contamination Control and Clean Room Training

Applied Biophysics

Biophysics Laboratory

Biostatistics

Introduction Data Science II

Cell Biology

Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering - Theory

Cell Physiology and Medical Molecular Biology

Cell Culture Techniques

Cell Culture Laboratory I

Biochemistry - Theory

Biochemistry - Laboratory

Bioanalytics - Theory

Bionalytics - Laboratory

Genetic Engineering Laboratory

Measurement and Control Systems I

Bioprocess Technology Theory I

Introduction to Quality Management

GLP/GMP - Theory

Practical Training Application and Preparation

Bioinformatics

Biochemical Analytics, Protein Purification

Equipment and Production Design

Bioprocess Technology Theory II

Fermentation and Bioseparation Laboratory, Data Analysis

Cell Culture Laboratory II

Scientific Skills

GLP/GMP - Seminar

Genetic Engineering Laboratory under GLP

Bachelor Seminar I

Practical Training Semester

Journal Club for Current Issues

Measurement and Control Systems II

Pharmaceutical Protein Production Systems

Regulatory Environment for Biopharmaceuticals

Introduction to Validation

Journal Club for Current Issues

Principles of Management and Marketing

Clinical Studies and GCP

Drug Regulatory Affairs

Bachelor Seminar II and Bachelor Paper

Bachelor Exam

Pharmacology

Current Issues in Molecular Medicine

Material Science and Biomaterials