University of Zurich

Study how life evolved through deep time, using fossil evidence to understand biodiversity change, extinction and recovery, and the biological mechanisms behind ancient organisms. You’ll build research skills in areas such as paleo-ecology, evolutionary genetics, and scientific methods for analyzing biological data. Programme type: Master’s programme (MSc) Field: Biology – Paleontology University: University of Zurich Credits: Typically 90 ECTS (check final programme details) Duration: Typically 3 semesters (full-time; check programme calendar) Delivery: On-campus (Switzerland) Language of instruction: English (confirm for your intake) Tuition fees: Vary by student status and programme details (check University of Zurich fee information) Application: Submit via the university application portal (confirm deadlines) Start dates: Typically autumn semester (confirm for your intake) Degree outcome: MSc in Biology – Paleontology

Programme Structure

The MSc Biology – Paleontology is designed to develop advanced knowledge and research competence in paleontology and evolutionary biology. The curriculum typically combines specialised lectures with methods-focused courses and research-oriented learning.

Core and specialised courses (examples)

• Experimental Biochemistry
• Discovering Statistics
• Human Evolutionary Genetics: Origins, Peoples and Disease
• Advanced Topics in Biological Anthropology
• Ethical Aspects of Biological Research on Humans
• Biomedical Imaging and Scientific Visualization

Research component

In addition to coursework, students complete a research-focused component (e.g., a master’s thesis or equivalent capstone requirement, depending on the programme regulations). This component allows you to apply methods to a biological and paleontological research question and produce a structured scientific report.

Note: Exact module names, sequencing, and the full list of electives can vary by academic year. Always verify the current study plan for your intake.

Academic requirements

GRE/GMAT: Not required (no specific GRE/GMAT requirement is indicated).

GPA: No specific GPA threshold is stated in the available programme information.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

100

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).

7

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

• Trusted by 300k learners
• 98 accuracy using real exam data
• 4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Biomedicine, or Biochemistry from the Faculty of Science at the University of Zurich qualifies you to apply for the Master’s programme in Biology.
• Degrees from Swiss and foreign universities may be recognized by the Faculty, subject to review.
• The Faculty assesses other qualifications (including degrees from universities of applied sciences) using its own criteria, applying the principle of equal treatment when evaluating equivalence.
• The Faculty may require additional evidence of academic achievement or fulfilment of conditions.
• Admission decisions consider the acceptance of academic achievements and credit points obtained elsewhere.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Zurich and/or in Switzerland, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

"Highlights"

Graduates of a Master’s programme in Switzerland may be eligible to apply for a residence permit for the purpose of job search after completing their studies. Eligibility and the exact conditions depend on your nationality, your study status, and the Swiss cantonal rules that apply to your place of residence.

• Job search period: In many cases, graduates are granted a limited period to look for employment after graduation (commonly up to several months; confirm the current allowance for your situation).
• Who is eligible: Typically, students who have completed an eligible degree programme in Switzerland and hold the appropriate residence status during their studies may apply.
• Employment requirements: If you find a suitable job, you may be able to transition from job-search status to a work/residence permit tied to employment.
• Documentation: You will usually need proof of graduation, identity documents, and evidence of sufficient resources and/or job-search activities.

Important: Switzerland’s rules can change and may differ by canton and nationality. Always verify the latest guidance with the Swiss immigration authorities and the University of Zurich international office before planning your next steps.