Master of Biomedical Sciences

The 21st century started as the century of molecular life sciences. Ever since the 1990s when scientists greatly improved our insights into the molecular basis of life processes, the life sciences have developed at a tremendous rate. Various breakthroughs, including the mapping of the human genome, are leading to the rapid development of inter-relationships between formerly autonomous scientific disciplines such as genetics, medicine, pharmacology, biology, and environmental science.

This creates new prospects for the academic and business worlds. Investments are huge: all over the world, universities, research institutes, and businesses are launching new research initiatives, teaching programs and business-related activities.

In accordance with its Lisbon Strategy, aimed at a more ambitious reinforcement of Europe’s knowledge-based economy, the EU strongly supports further development of genomics and biotechnology. And these are only two of many future scientific developments in the realm of the life sciences, including proteomics, bioinformatics, bioelectronics, and imaging, all of which have numerous applications for human health, wellness, and prosperity.

The Master of Biomedical Sciences focuses on state-of-the-art methodology, knowledge, insight and academic skills, enabling graduates to unravel the molecular mechanisms of health and disease as independent researchers. The program provides students with the knowledge and skills required for the proper design of a scientific research project.

Three specializations are offered:

• Bioelectronics and Nanotechnology
• Environmental Health Sciences
• Molecular Mechanisms in Health and Disease

Strengths of the program @UHasselt

• The program is strongly research-oriented with focus on fundamental research and dissemination of scientific findings.
• You are trained in several specialized research domains.
• The program offers two internships for a total of 60 ECTS credits.
• Topics for internships are available at top-level research groups at Hasselt University, Maastricht University or at other locations in Belgium and abroad (within ERASMUS program together with universities in e.g. Italy, Finland, Spain, England and Germany)
• You are trained in scientific English and writing a grant proposal as a preparation of the senior internship.
• The program strongly emphasizes lifelong learning and employability skills such as communication (writing and presenting), critical attitude, working in team.
• The program is based on student-centered education: small groups, individual guidance and feedback, ‘face-to-face’ education.
• You have the opportunity to present your research findings in an international conference environment.
• The program has an international and multidisciplinary orientation.

Bioelectronics and Nanotechnology

• Applied and fundamental research at universities, hospitals, and research centers in scientific and biomedical disciplines (Ph.D., research associate, etc.)
• Research and development in companies specialized in pharmaceutics, diagnostics, biotechnology, semiconductor and biomedical devices, and medical engineering (product specialist, process analyst, product engineer, service engineer, etc.)
• Governmental authorities and centers focusing on public health, environmental conservation, genetics, and information services (project manager, business developer, investment manager, etc.)
• Independent consultant and entrepreneur
• Education (teaching assistant, etc.)

Environmental Health Sciences

• Fundamental and applied research at universities, hospitals, research centers
• Government authorities and centers focusing on public health and environmental conservation
• Food safety agencies
• Research and development in companies specialized in pharmaceutics, diagnostics, and environmental health science
• Ph.D. programs in scientific and biomedical disciplines
• Education

100 % of the graduates had a job in the above-mentioned fields within 1 year after graduation.

Clinical Molecular Sciences

• Fundamental and applied research at universities, hospitals, research centers
• Government authorities and centers focusing on public health, genetics, and public relations agencies
• Research and development in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries
• Ph.D. programs in scientific and biomedical disciplines
• Education