Why this programme
Our society is increasingly confronted with complex health challenges such as cancer, neurodegenerative and heart diseases, metabolic disorders and the long-term impacts of infectious diseases. Understanding and improving human health requires deep insight into the biological mechanisms that underlie these conditions. In this programme, we focus on unravelling these mechanisms, from genes to cells to entire systems, using advanced biomedical technologies and interdisciplinary research approaches. By doing so, the biomedical sciences programme contributes to the development of diagnostics, therapies and also supports prevention and personalised medicine.
You are equipped with essential tools to explore how molecular, genetic and environmental factors interact in health and disease. Throughout the programme, you learn to design and conduct cutting-edge research, including data science and artificial intelligence, preparing you to actively contribute to solving urgent biomedical challenges in clinical, academic and societal contexts.
This programme is for you if:
- you are eager to explore how biology drives health and disease at the molecular and cellular level;
- you want to develop and use cutting-edge biomedical knowledge to improve diagnostics, therapies and prevention strategies;
- you aim to solve real-world health challenges through interdisciplinary research and innovation.
A strong foundation in biomedical sciences
The first two 8-week courses of the BMS (Biomedical Sciences) master’s programme provide a strong and shared foundation for all students, regardless of your academic background. You’ll gain essential knowledge on biomedical approaches and challenges while building core skills in lab techniques, data analysis and the use of AI in research. A dedicated data science component introduces the basis of coding and biomedical data handling, with flexible learning tracks and tailored assignments for all students. These courses ensure a smooth transition into the specialisation track of your choice later in the programme. Throughout the entire master's programme, you’ll receive personal guidance from a mentor to support your academic and professional development.
Deepen your knowledge
The master in Biomedical Sciences offers five specialisations, allowing you to develop your own academic and professional profile. Find more detailed information about the specialisations here.
- Genetics & Genomics: Dive into the DNA-level mechanisms of disease and explore the power of personalised medicine.
- Inflammation & Pathophysiology: Understand the immune system's role in disease and uncover new therapeutic targets.
- Nutrition, Physical Activity & Metabolism: Study how lifestyle impacts metabolism and contributes to health and disease.
- Regenerative Medicine: Learn how to repair and replace damaged tissues using cutting-edge bioengineering technologies.
- Neuromodulation: Discover how electrical and magnetic stimulation can influence brain function and treat neurological disorders.
Build real world skills during the 1-year internship
Unique to Biomedical Sciences is its extended 1-year internship, offering you the opportunity to work in a research lab at Maastricht University or at a university, research centre, hospital or company anywhere in the world. This is a unique opportunity to independently carry out a research project of your own design. You will gain practical and professional experience and will rapidly develop from working on assignments in small groups to becoming an independent researcher. During the internship you pursue your own research interests whilst actively participating in laboratory work. Whether you're aiming for academia, industry or healthcare, this experience will be your launchpad. Are you eager to broaden your horizon? Explore our international exchange options or apply for the double degree programme in Japan, an excellent opportunity to expand both your scientific and cultural horizons.
Your master’s thesis concludes the internship. Your master’s thesis consists of a written research report and an e-poster. The internship period concludes with a defence and in-depth discussion of your thesis, held with your supervisor and an independent examiner.
Strengths of our faculty
Employability
Improving your employability is an integral part of the Biomedical Sciences master’s programme. In the Master Career Skills Track, you receive tailored lectures and workshops that help you explore different career options and prepare for a successful transition into the job market. Events such as the Career Day and Career Evenings provide valuable opportunities to gain insight into alumni career paths and to build your own professional biomedical network. The programme comes to a close at the MOSA Conference, an international event organised by students, for students. In addition, Maastricht University’s Career Services offers a wide range of free workshops on topics such as CV writing, job interview skills, and job search strategies. You can also book individual career coaching or visit the career & wellbeing walk-in hours. Read more about the offer of Career Services here: Kick-start your career with UM Career services.
Professional and personal competencies
Biomedical expertise is at the heart of being a biomedical scientist. However, at Maastricht University we also focus on interpersonal competencies to help you develop professionally and personally. You will learn how to communicate effectively and how to give and learn from constructive feedback. You will learn to be creative, to develop novel and effective ideas and how to behave professional. Biomedical ethics are extremely important, and so are professional agreements and deadlines. In addition, the Problem-Based Learning approach trains you to think critically, collaborate effectively, and take initiative, all valuable competencies for a successful career in the biomedical field.
Embracing our diverse student population
We welcome students with various academic backgrounds into our programme. Some students come from bachelor’s programmes at a Dutch university, or at a university of applied sciences, whereas others arrive in Maastricht with similar degrees obtained elsewhere in the world. The scientific and academic diversity in our programme enhances learning and we actively promote that diversity. The expertise and experiences that come with this diversity provide us with unique possibilities to learn from and with each other.
Premium honours programme
Want to gain that extra edge by getting real-world experience during your studies? The PREMIUM honours programme will help you gain the experience and develop the skills employers are looking for. As part of a team of students and under the guidance of our academic staff, you will spend about three months working on a real-world assignment for a company, NGO or educational institution. You will also work on a personal development plan, receive intensive individual coaching and attend master classes and workshops. All of this will take about 250 hours, but it will give you a lifetime of benefits.