In the Master of Science in Biology programme, you can choose between three
study directions of two years each.
The programme is finalised
with an original research (thesis module) of which you are
entirely and solely responsible, but with intense guidance.
For Erasmus students: the courses are also available to you. Please click here or on "ERASMUS" in the menu on the left.
When you graduate, you will have a thorough knowledge
of biological sciences which you can use for a further
study of "life" (research career), but also
to practice these modern techniques in the corporate
world.
Genetics, Cell and Developmental Biology
This specialization is aimed at constructing a thorough understanding
of living organisms. You learn about cell functions, the building blocks
of an organism, stem cells, interactions between cells and tissues during
the embryonic development, cellular processes which normally occur, but
also about the "errors" which can occur during the lifespan
of an organism. You will also be confronted with the multiple fundamental
and applied aspects of genetics. Thanks to the state-of-the-art approach
of the fast evolving molecular biology techniques you will be strongly
formed as molecular biologist, geneticist, cell biologist and developmental
biologist.
You
will learn to use uni- and multicellular model organisms such as micro-organisms,
plants, cell lines, animals and the human being to study the basic functions
of the organisms (fundamental research) but also to alter their characteristics
(applied research, medical applications). You will acquire skills in
genotoxicology, biomonitoring, molecular screening, mutagenesis, carcinogenesis,
but also on the level of population genetics, conservation genetics en
the growth and development of man. Considering the thorough biological
insight of these biologists, they are very much appraised in corporate
research departments, clinical laboratories and research institutions,
as well as teachers in the secondary and higher education programmes.
Click here for detailed information on the programme offered in English.
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Environmental Biology: biodiversity and ecosystems
Ecology
This specialization is aimed at the development of a driven knowledge
of the relations between fauna, flora, micro-organisms and ecosystems.
Attention is given to environmental biology in its broadest sense which
will allow you as future biologist to acquire nature-historical knowledge
during international and national fieldwork. In combination with indispensable
laboratory techniques (i.e. physico-chemical analysis and DNA research)
and technologies (i.e. teledetection, GIS, computer models) you will
be trained in acquiring a scientific holistic image on the nature around
us and of life in its historical (geological timescale) and evolutionary
perspective. A graduate in this study direction knows to estimate the
amplitude of the nature and environmental problematics, to analyse the
consequences on biodiversity and ecosystems, to follow the steering processes
on a large scale (ecosystems) and on a small scale (survival of the organism
and evolution), and to reach plans for a natural recovery. For more information click here
Herpetology
Some of the world’s finest herpetologists have joined forces to organize a two year Master specialization in Herpetology. The Master program in Biology addresses highly motivated students with a Bachelor degree in Biology (or equivalent) and aims to provide them with strong fundamental and applied knowledge in preparation of an active professional role in herpetological research. This highly-specialized Master is organized in the capital of Europe, at the Free University of Brussels (VUB, Vrije Universiteit Brussel), but ecological and herpetological field courses in European and tropical countries form an important part of this exciting program. For more information click here
Click here for detailed information on the programme offered in English.
Human Ecology (ICP)
This programme in ‘Master of Biology - specialization Human Ecology’ provides students with strong fundamental and applied knowledge by bringing together expertise at the scientific, technological and policy level for taking an integrated look at human-environment interactions. Understanding of earth’s ecosystems and their services, of specific governances and policy contexts provide graduates with tools to contribute and to play a key role in dealing with human ecological challenges in their home countries.
Human ecology deals with the environment in which humans and human society develop. In this development humans change their environment thereby not only impacting the ecosystems but also themselves. For more information click here
Click here for detailed information on the programme offered in English.
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