Master of Science in Stem Cell Medicine

The Stem Cell Medicine Master program offered by Ruhr University Bochum is a highly interdisciplinary Master’s program that is oriented towards cutting-edge biomedical research and current markets (e.g. biotechnology, biomedicine). Our program combines classical disciplines from the fields of medicine, cell biology, histology, biochemistry and pathology with current topics in molecular biology and developmental biology to offer students the broadest possible understanding of the innovative approaches of translational medicine.

The program consists of a total of ten modules spread over three full-time semesters and awards a total of 90 credit points. The modules are designed consecutively with no elective modules. However, individual arrangements allow you a high degree of flexibility and mobility. At the end of your studies, you will recieve a final degree of Master of Science in Stem Cell Medicine.

Program Structure

• First two Semesters: Students complete 60 ECTS through nine modules. The first semester of study comprises six modules. The second semester of study comprises six modules: five new modules and the continuation of one module started in the first semester. In addition, the Master’s thesis is prepared in the module Master’s Thesis Planning. The individual modules comprise 5 CP, 12 CP, 13 CP, according to the specific achievements.
• Third Semester:Students will begin and finish their Master’s thesis (30 CP)
• A detailed plan of can be found here: Study Schedule with Modules

 General Academic and Subject-Specific Key Competencies

• the understanding of scientific theories and their limitations,
• the ability to plan experiments, to apply appropriate experimental techniques and to assess the validity of different approaches,
• the ability to obtain information on a subject quickly, reliably and completely with the help of suitable sources and procedures and, above all, to be able to critically evaluate their respective informative value (information competence)
• the competence to give presentations in English on complex subjects and to be able to defend them in discussions,
• the competence to write independent factual texts in scientific terminology and to cite sources correctly,
• strengthen the ability to work and deal with a team and groups
• the ability to understand ethical, social, economic and legal aspects of our society.

Lecturers

Q

Prof. Dr. Beate Brand-Saberi

Prof. Dr. Beate Brand-Saberi has studied Biology and Medicine in Bochum and became Professor of Anatomy at the University of Freiburg. She currently heads the Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Ruhr University Bochum, and focuses on all aspects of Stem and Developmental Biology in medical and scientific training.

Prof. Dr. Beate Brand-Saberi

Prof. Dr. Beate Brand-Saberi has studied Biology and Medicine in Bochum and became Professor of Anatomy at the University of Freiburg. She currently heads the Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Ruhr University Bochum, and focuses on all aspects of Stem and Developmental Biology in medical and scientific training.

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Q

Prof. Dr. Holm Zähres

PD Dr. Holm Zaehres was trained and focused on pluripotent stem cell research at Harvard Medical School Boston and the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine Münster after studying in Hamburg and Düsseldorf. He was appointed at Ruhr University Bochum Medical Faculty in 2014, where he is teaching Anatomy, Cell and Molecular Biology.

Prof. Dr. Holm Zähres

PD Dr. Holm Zaehres was trained and focused on pluripotent stem cell research at Harvard Medical School Boston and the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine Münster after studying in Hamburg and Düsseldorf. He was appointed at Ruhr University Bochum Medical Faculty in 2014, where he is teaching Anatomy, Cell and Molecular Biology.

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The Stem Cell Medicine master’s program is research-oriented. It will prepare you as a graduate for subsequent doctoral studies or for research-related professional activities. The program is designed to enable you to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired to new contexts and to quickly acquire the new or more in-depth knowledge required for this purpose. As a graduate you are able to contribute to the scientific and technical development in the field of stem cell research independently and to meet the changing requirements of profession and society also in an international context.

As a Stem Cell Medicine Graduate you will know the mechanisms of:

• action of stem-cell treatments for leukaemia and lymphoma,
• application stem-cell therapy e.g. for the management of acute graft-vs-host disease.

As a Stem Cell Medicine Graduate you will perform research to:

• prevent conditions such as diabetes and heart diseases,
• treat strokes, traumatic brain injuries and neurodegenerative diseases,
• to build and replace organs.

Are you a Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) graduate and would like to further your studies in the Stem Cell Medicine Masters program? We are awarding one scholarship per year group for the „high-potential RUB student in stem cell medicine“, who is a Ruhr University Bochum graduate.

You can easily apply by submiting the following documents:

1. A motivation letter in English, stating why you would like to study in this program

2. Your final transcripts from your studies at the RUB and any other studies you have completed

3. Proof of required Language skills (at least B2 English)

4. A list of your work experience in the field (at least 1 year of experience)

Please include:

• name of the company
• contact details from the company
• duration of the employment with dates
• your role in this job

We look forward to receiving your application at scm@akademie.ruhr-uni-bochum.de by September 1st, 2025 to join in the Winter Semester 2025/2026.

Application requirements

Students can only be admitted to the Master’s degree program “M.Sc. Stem Cell Medicine” if they:

• provide evidence of a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent bachelor’s degree outside of this area of ​​validity in one of the subjects (Molecular Medicine, Human Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy and comparable specialized courses. The examination board decides on related subjects.)
• have a completed Bachelor’s degree with a scope of 210 ECTS. In the case of admission with a bachelor’s degree of 180 to 209 ECTS, admission is subject to conditions. Students who have completed a bachelor’s degree with less than 180 ECTS cannot be admitted.
• be able to demonstrate the best knowledge of cell biology as well as knowledge of molecular biology in theory and practice.
• have sufficient knowledge of the English language C1. This must be proven by TOEFL 95 (internet-based) or IELTS 6.5. The examination board decides on equivalent performance.
• have first professional work experience of at least 1 year.

Application Deadlines

International Applicants –  deadline May 15th, 2025 

For students out of the European Union– deadline July 15th, 2025.

Early-bird discounts apply for those who apply by March 1st, 2025.

Housing

After your application has been accepted, we have reserved a few apartments at both of the new student housing complexs

1. Seven Stones
2. Green Stay

Please use the link above to see details about the apartments. Further details can be discussed after acceptance to the program.

For student housing through the RUB, please fill out an application form here: RUB Student Housing- AKAFOE

Here is an example of some of the work the current students are researching:

1. Systemic Prenatal Stress Exposure through Corticosterone Application