The MSc Biology – Cancer Biology at the University of Zurich focuses on the molecular mechanisms that drive genome instability, cancer initiation, and tumour–microenvironment interactions. You develop research-oriented skills to analyse cancer-relevant pathways and identify therapeutic opportunities.
Programme type: Master’s degree (MSc)
Duration: Typically 3–4 semesters (exact duration may vary by study plan)
Credits: ECTS credits (varies by curriculum requirements)
Delivery: On-campus (University of Zurich)
Language of instruction: English (confirm for your intake)
Tuition fees: Not specified in the record—check University of Zurich fee information for your status
Application: Submit via the University of Zurich application portal
Intake: Check the university’s official start dates for the relevant academic year
Programme Structure
Core focus: cancer-relevant molecular biology, experimental approaches, and data/analysis skills.
Modules / courses (examples from the programme record)
- Experimental Biochemistry
- Discovering Statistics
- Ethical Aspects of Biological Research on Humans
- Modelling Cultural Evolution
- Human Evolutionary Genetics: Origins, Peoples and Disease
- Advanced Topics in Biological Anthropology
Research-oriented learning
In addition to coursework, the programme is structured to support research competence through training in scientific methods and the interpretation of biological data relevant to cancer biology.
Note: The exact module list, sequencing, and any thesis/capstone requirements should be confirmed in the official programme regulations for your intake.
Academic requirements
Admission is based on your prior degree and its equivalence to the Faculty’s requirements. The Faculty may request additional evidence of academic achievement and can set conditions or additional requirements.
In general, a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biomedicine or Biochemistry from the Faculty of Science, University of Zurich qualifies you to apply for a Master’s degree programme in Biology. Degrees from Swiss and foreign universities may be recognised by the Faculty.
The Faculty assesses other qualifications (including degrees from universities of applied sciences) according to its own criteria, applying the principle of equal treatment when evaluating equivalence. The Faculty also decides on the acceptance of academic achievements and credit points obtained elsewhere.
English requirements
TOEFL®
IBT
TOEFL iBT® is accepted by more than 13,000 universities and other institutions in over 160 countries. The test can be taken at a test center or at home. The test measures your English-language abilities in an academic setting. The score refers to the total score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading), each subject has a range of 0 - 30.
Schedule TOEFL®
IELTS
The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).
Other requirements
General requirements
- Applicants should hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biomedicine or Biochemistry (or an equivalent qualification recognised by the Faculty).
- The Faculty may require additional conditions or evidence of academic achievement.
- Credit points and academic achievements obtained elsewhere are assessed and may be accepted at the Faculty’s discretion.
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Post-study work options in Switzerland (general guidance)
After completing your Master’s degree at the University of Zurich, you may be able to apply for a residence permit for the purpose of employment in Switzerland, subject to meeting the relevant immigration requirements and having a suitable job offer.
Typical eligibility factors
- You must have successfully completed your degree programme.
- You generally need a concrete employment offer that matches your qualifications.
- Approval depends on Swiss immigration rules in force at the time of application and on your personal circumstances.
Duration and conditions
- The permitted duration and conditions are determined by the Swiss authorities and the type of permit granted.
- You may be required to apply within a specific timeframe after graduation.
Important note
Work-permit rules can change and may differ depending on your nationality and the exact permit category. Always verify the latest guidance with the Swiss Federal Office for Migration (SEM) and/or the University of Zurich International Office before applying.
