FAQs: Frequently asked questions about the Business Chemistry degree programme

General Questions

  • 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 experts 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 analytics 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 research-intensive industries such as biotech or life science. In addition, business chemists are in demand in many other areas because of their strong analytical skills and broad, interdisciplinary knowledge.

  • Are there tuition fees?

    The University of Münster is a public university and as such does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay a so called semester fee of currently €320 (about $330 or £270) per semester (= €640 per year). The revenues collected from the semester fee are used to finance various student-related services, such as the dining halls, student halls of residence, University Sports and the University radio station. You can find more information, including a breakdown of how the revenue from the semster fee is used, here.

Entry Requirements and Application

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

    Admission to the MSc Business Chemistry requires a relevant undergraduate degree (i.e. usually in Chemistry, Business Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Biochemistry or Chemical Engineering) with a standard period of study of at least six semesters, which has been successfully completed with a Bachelor's degree or another degree qualifying for university entrance and an overall grade of at least 3.3. For applicants whose first language is not English, the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level. This must correspond to at least level B2. Common English language qualifications for entry to this programme are TOEFL, IELTS and CAE. See also our application page.

  • Can I apply if I have not yet completed all courses in my undergraduate (e.g. bachelor's degree) programme?

    You can apply even if you have not yet formally graduated from your undergraduate degree programme. Until you have obtained your undergraduate degree, your application for a place on the M.Sc. Business Chemistry programme will be deemed provisional. You have to submit a transcript of records indicating your current average grade and demonstrating that you have so far earned at least 120 ECTS. The transcript must bear an official stamp or seal of your university, as well as the signature of the Dean of the Faculty or a member of the Examinations Office or an online verification link.

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

    The M.Sc. Business Chemistry starts in the winter semester. However, under certain conditions, it is possible to gain direct entry into the second semester (i.e. the summer semester). You need to submit an application for entry into a higher semester, in this case the second semester. If there are still places available in the programme, you need to meet the following requirements for such a lateral entry: i) the admission criteria valid for the winter semester must also be fulfilled for the start of the summer semester and ii) 30 ECTS must already have been acquired in another degree programme with equivalent content to the M.Sc. in Business Chemistry. This serves as proof that you have acquired relevant competences and meet the intended learning outcomes of the first semester.

  • 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. Business Chemistry?

    Yes, in addition to those undergraduate programmes mentioned in the admission regulations (i.e. Chemistry, Business Chemistry, Food Chemistry, Biochemistry and Chemical Engineering), other undergraduate programmes are also eligible if they comprise at least 90 ECTS relating to chemistry. See also our Application page.

  • I am a undergraduate student at the University of Münster. Where can I obtain a language certificate for my application to the M.Sc. Business Chemistry

    The Language Center of the University of Münster offers English language courses and tests.

  • When is the application period?

    The application portal opens at the beginning of May. The application deadline is the 15th of July.

    Please note that the application deadline cannot be extended. Applications will not be accepted after the deadline.

    More information on application dates and deadlines is available here.

During and after your studies

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

    As part of the M.Sc. 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. Further information can be found on our study abroad page.

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

    The Master's degree programme in Business Chemistry is specifically designed to enable graduates to start their careers in industry. 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. You can find information on the possibility of doing a doctorate on our doctoral opportunities page.

  • I have completed relevant modules in my previous degree programme. Can these be recognised for the M.Sc. Business Chemistry?

    Yes, this is in principle possible. For more information, please contact our study advisor Dr Lars Jahnke.