Plant Sciences
The Faculty of Biology of the LMU Munich offers a comprehensive two-year-Master’s program in Plant Sciences for graduates with a background in biology (B.Sc. in biology or equivalent).
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The Master’s program Plant Sciences is currently being restructured.
The winter semester 2026/27 is the final intake for the program in its current form.
For prospective students:
If you are interested in joining our Faculty, we are pleased to introduce our new Master’s program Molecular Plant Sciences (MPS), which will start in the winter semester 2027/28.
For current students:
The restructuring will not affect students who are already enrolled in the current program. You can continue your studies under the study regulations applicable to your cohort. All courses currently offered as part of the program will continue to be offered, so you can complete your studies as planned.
The master’s program Plant Sciences links classical botanical disciplines to modern molecular methods. The program is aimed at highly motivated and globally diversified next-generation researchers with a strong interest in molecular and adaptation mechanisms and the evolution of plants.
The program is taught in English and it offers state-of-the-art education in four main topics: Plant Molecular Biology, Plant Cell Biology, Systematics and Biotic interactions of plants.
Our aim is to offer our students comprehensive preparation for meeting future challenges in science-related professional careers within the field of plant sciences.
At a glance
| Main topics of the program: |
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| Degree: | Master of Science |
| Duration: | 4 Semesters - 120 ECTS credits |
| Language: | English |
| Start of the program: | Winter semester |
| Requirements: |
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| Application deadline: | February 28 |
Interested in obtaining a Master's degree in Plant Sciences?
15.05.2025
Program
The Master’s program in Plant Sciences builds on your Bachelor's degree (B.Sc. in Biology or a related field) and offers the opportunity to deepen your expertise through a wide range of specialized modules. Designed with flexibility in mind, the program allows you to tailor your studies by choosing subjects and organizing your courses according to your individual interests and goals.
The program aims to provide you with a solid foundation in classical research while also fostering essential transferable skills — including teamwork, communication, organizational and mediation abilities, as well as intercultural competence.
After successful completion of the master's program, students may pursue an individual doctoral research project or a doctorate in one of the graduate schools of the Faculty of Biology.
The standard duration of the Master’s program is four semesters, including the completion of a master’s thesis. The program comprises a total of 120 ECTS credits, with students typically earning approximately 30 credits per semester. The curriculum is organized into a modular system that encompasses thematically related areas of research, integrating lectures, seminars, and practical courses. A key focus is placed on learning within the context of current research projects. Modules can be individually selected and combined based on the student’s academic goals and interests.
First semester – Foundational Training
The first semester is designed to expand and deepen the foundational knowledge acquired during your undergraduate studies. During the initial two months, you participate in the mandatory courses Lab Methods in Plant Sciences and Bioinformatics and Data Analysis. In addition, you may choose up to two supplementary fields of study to begin your academic specialization.
Second and third semester – Specialisation
In the second semester, your have the opportunity to either continue developing your focus areas from the first semester or explore new subjects. Required components include lectures, seminars, hands-on practical courses, and research-based practicals.
During the third semester, you enroll in two thematically coordinated modules: Special Methods in Plant Sciences and a Special Research Module, both of which prepare your for your final research phase.
Fourth semester – Master module
The program concludes with a 24-week research project culminating in the writing and defense of a master’s thesis. This final phase allows you to demonstrate your ability to conduct independent, responsible scientific research.
The master’s module also includes supplementary elements such as a research seminar and colloquia, supporting the development of presentation and discussion skills in a scholarly context.
Research
The Faculty of Biology at LMU Munich offers excellent research and teaching in the modern Biocenter at the HighTechCampus. Collaborations with top institutes such as the Max Planck Institutes and the Bavarian State Collections of Natural History provide students with outstanding resources and a unique environment.