University of Pecs

What you'll study

The programme develops practical and theoretical expertise across modern biotechnology. Core taught topics typically include advanced molecular and cell biology, genetic engineering and recombinant technologies, protein expression and purification, microbial and plant biotechnology, mammalian cell culture, bioprocess engineering, and bioinformatics. Quantitative modules such as biostatistics, data analysis and modelling of biological systems are usually part of the curriculum.

Practical training is a central element: students work in well-equipped laboratories on techniques such as PCR, next‑generation sequencing data interpretation, chromatography, electrophoresis, microscopy and bioreactor operation. The degree normally culminates in an independent research project or thesis carried out under academic supervision, and often linked to a laboratory rotation or collaboration with an external research group or company.

• Typical modules: Advanced Molecular Biology; Genetic Engineering and Synthetic Biology; Microbial and Enzyme Biotechnology; Bioprocess Design and Downstream Processing; Cell Culture and Tissue Engineering; Bioinformatics and Systems Biology; Biostatistics and Experimental Design.
• Assessment: practical lab reports, written examinations, coursework, presentations and a research thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree in biology, biotechnology, biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, chemical engineering with life‑science focus, or a closely related discipline. Admission decisions take into account academic transcripts, the content of previous study, and research or laboratory experience.

Other typical requirements include a curriculum vitae, a personal statement or motivation letter explaining research interests, and one or more academic references. Applicants whose first language is not English usually need to demonstrate English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence of prior instruction in English.

Some applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to provide additional details of laboratory experience or a short research proposal if they apply for research‑intensive tracks. Specific grade thresholds, English-test scores and documentation requirements are published by the university and should be checked on the official programme pages.

Career prospects

Graduates from this Masters programme are prepared for a range of careers in the life sciences. Common pathways include roles in pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, diagnostics and medical device companies, and contract research organisations (CROs). Technical and scientific positions include research scientist, process development scientist, quality control/assurance analyst, regulatory affairs associate, and laboratory manager.

Other career options include clinical research coordination, sales and technical support for scientific instruments and reagents, bioinformatics and data analysis roles, and further academic research at PhD level. The combination of laboratory skills, data literacy and project experience also supports entrepreneurship and technology transfer activities in the biotech sector.

Why study at University of Pecs

The University of Pécs is one of Hungary’s long‑established universities with faculties that offer interdisciplinary life‑science teaching and access to modern laboratory facilities. Students benefit from research‑led teaching, opportunities to collaborate with neighbouring medical and science departments, and links with regional and national research institutes and industry partners.

Pécs is a lively university city with an international student community, which supports a practical, hands‑on training environment alongside opportunities for cultural engagement. The programme’s emphasis on both applied laboratory competencies and research project work aims to equip graduates with the skills demanded by employers and by higher research degrees.