MSc Innovation in Bioengineering

The MSc Innovation in Bioengineering at the University of Tartu is a full-time, postgraduate Master’s programme designed to prepare specialists with a comprehensive understanding of modern bioengineering and the technologies transforming the field. The programme has a nominal duration of 2 years and is taught entirely in English.

The programme focuses on the application of automation technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in modern bioengineering, synthetic biology, and biotechnology. Students develop both scientific and practical knowledge while gaining an innovative mindset and the skills required to develop, implement, and commercialise new technologies.

Programme Focus

The Master’s programme combines bioengineering with emerging technologies and innovation. Students are introduced to the application and development of advanced technologies in bioengineering, with particular emphasis on automation, artificial intelligence, synthetic biology, and biotechnology.

Alongside technical and scientific knowledge, the programme develops entrepreneurial competencies. Students learn skills related to business-plan development, securing funding, market analysis, and commercialising intellectual property. This combination is intended to help students understand not only how innovative technologies are developed, but also how they can be implemented and brought into practical use.

Practical and Research Experience

Students have the opportunity to study in state-of-the-art research facilities under the supervision of professors and scientists. The programme also provides practical experience in bioprocess automation through collaboration with the Estonian Biofoundry.

The programme includes opportunities to broaden international experience through a semester abroad, allowing students to gain additional exposure to international academic and research environments.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in natural and exact sciences or medicine. The qualification must be obtained by the end of July.

Entry qualification documents are accepted in English or Estonian. Applicants must also meet the University of Tartu’s English-language requirements. The source specifies that only the English tests and exempt categories listed by the university are accepted.

A motivation letter is also required as part of the application. The letter must be written in English and may contain a maximum of 5,000 characters including spaces. Applicants are expected to explain their previous studies and work experience, how their background relates to the programme, which elective courses match their study interests, and how they plan to apply the skills gained during the programme in their future career.

Motivation Letter Evaluation

The motivation letter is evaluated according to three criteria:

• Fit between the student’s goals and the programme: 40%
• Analytical and argumentation skills: 40%
• Fluency of written English: 20%

The motivation letter has a maximum score of 100 points. A minimum score of 51 points is required for a positive result. In addition, only applicants who achieve 66 points or higher as a combined score from the motivation letter and the average grade of their previous study level will be considered for admission.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee for the programme is €7,200 per year.

Citizens and permanent residence permit holders of EU/EEA countries or Switzerland are exempt from the tuition fee. The source states that there are no tuition waivers for citizens from outside the EU/EEA or Switzerland.

For this programme, five admitted students receive a 50% tuition fee reduction for their second semester, based on the weighted average grade of all results from the previous semester.

Applicants who are not citizens of the EU/EEA or Switzerland must pre-pay half of the first semester’s tuition fee after receiving an admission offer.

An additional €100 non-refundable application fee applies.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue further studies and continue towards a PhD in academia or industry, or use their knowledge and entrepreneurial skills to launch their own technological startup.

The programme is designed to develop skills for translating scientific discoveries into practical solutions and accelerating the incorporation of novel technologies into everyday life. Graduates can therefore contribute to the development and implementation of innovative technologies within the emerging bio-revolution.

The programme also addresses the role of synthetic biology in supporting a sustainable bioeconomy in line with the European Union Green Deal. Graduates may contribute to sustainable development and develop innovative solutions within biotechnology and related technological fields.

The programme’s entrepreneurial focus also supports students who are interested in developing technological businesses and bringing new solutions from research and innovation into practical applications.

Study Information

• University: University of Tartu
• Faculty: Faculty of Science and Technology
• Study location: Tartu, Estonia
• Study type: Postgraduate, full-time
• Duration: 2 years
• Degree: MSc — Master of Science in Innovation in Bioengineering
• Teaching language: English
• Tuition fee: €7,200 per year
• Application fee: €100, non-refundable
• Studies commence: 31 August
• Application status: Application period has ended