FAQs: Frequently asked questions about the Business Chemistry degree programme

• Why should I study Business Chemistry?

  The chemical industry and related sectors are characterised by a high level of research intensity, complex production processes and an increasing fusion of different disciplines. With their dual training in chemistry and business administration, business chemists are ideally prepared to manage these demanding conditions. They are at the forefront of chemical research and familiar with modern management concepts. As a result, they can play a key role in bringing chemical innovations to market.

• What areas of the company do Business Chemists work in?

  There is a growing demand in the chemical industry for qualified young people with both a scientific background and business skills. These graduates are particularly sought after in areas that represent an interface between different disciplines, such as marketing, research and development, or sales and production. They are also indispensable in central corporate functions such as controlling, business area analysis and corporate development. Medium-sized companies are particularly looking for business chemistry graduates to provide effective support to management. In consulting, the focus is on developing specific consulting skills for industry. In addition, business chemists are in demand in many other areas because of their strong analytical skills and broad, interdisciplinary knowledge.

• Can I only start the Master's programme in the winter semester or can I also start in the summer semester?

  The programme normally starts in the winter semester. However, under certain conditions, it is possible to start directly in the second semester of the summer semester. This requires an application for the higher semester, in this case the second semester. There are two main requirements for such a lateral entry: 1. the admission criteria valid for the winter semester must also be fulfilled for the start of the summer semester, 2. 30 CP (credit points) must already have been acquired in another degree programme whose content is comparable to the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry. This serves as proof that the competences of the first semester are already available and that it makes sense to start the second semester.

• What are the formal requirements for the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry in Münster?

  Admission to the Master's programme in Business Chemistry requires a relevant degree (i.e. usually a degree in Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Biochemistry or Business Chemistry from a German or foreign university) with a standard period of study of at least 6 semesters, which has been successfully completed with a Bachelor's degree or another degree qualifying for university entrance (Diplom, Staatsexamen, etc.) and an overall grade of at least 3.3. Admission to the Master's programme in Business Chemistry requires a relevant degree (i.e. usually a degree in Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Biochemistry or Business Chemistry from a German or foreign university) with a standard period of study of at least 6 semesters. See also our application page.

• I did not study chemistry, food chemistry, biochemistry or business chemistry in my Bachelor's degree. Can I still be admitted to the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry?

  Yes, in addition to the four explicitly listed degree programmes, Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Biochemistry and Business Chemistry, other programmes are also eligible for a "relevant degree programme", provided they comprise at least 90 CPs relating to chemistry. See also our Application page.

• Can I go abroad or do an internship during the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry?

  As part of the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry, you have the opportunity to spend a semester abroad as well as to complete an internship. Both options are actively supported by us. In order to organise this, we recommend that you contact our outgoing representatives at an early stage and consider applying for a semester abroad. Further information and contact details can be found under Studying internationally.

• Do I still have to do a doctorate after the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry - as is usual with an M.Sc. in Chemistry - or is the Master's degree enough to start a career?

  The Master's degree programme in Business Chemistry is specifically designed to qualify graduates directly for entry into a career. In contrast to the M.Sc. in Chemistry, where a doctorate is often expected before entering the professional world, this is not necessary for the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry. The degree programme provides comprehensive preparation for the demands of professional life without the need for an additional doctorate. Nevertheless, graduates of the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry are free to pursue a doctorate, be it a Dr. rer. nat. or a Dr. rer. pol. You can find information on the possibility of doing a doctorate on our page on doctoral opportunities.

• Can I have examination achievements from another degree programme recognised for the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry, possibly even achievements from my Bachelor's degree?

  Yes, this is possible. Please contact our study advisor Dr Lars Jahnke.