Master in Life Sciences - Data Science, FHNW School of Life Sciences

High‑throughput technologies and large‑scale data have made Data Science central to modern research and development. It is now indispensable in drug development, molecular diagnostics and chemical analysis. Graduates are well prepared to tackle data‑driven problems in interdisciplinary teams and to develop innovative solutions for complex life science and analytical challenges.

Typical areas of employment for graduates are:

• Research and development laboratories: Analysis and interpretation of complex datasets to support scientific innovation.
• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies: Data-driven development of new active ingredients and diagnostics.
• Clinical research institutions: Evaluation of medical and molecular data to improve therapies and diagnoses.
• Data analytics and IT departments: Development and application of bioinformatics and statistical methods.
• Start-ups in the field of digital health: Integration of life science data into digital platforms and personalised medical solutions.

The programme offers a rigorous, practice‑oriented education tailored to the needs of research, industry and digital health technologies.

You will gain expertise in the following areas:

• Programming and algorithms: Elements and advanced methods for developing data‑driven solutions.
• Databases and data management: Efficient storage, retrieval and structuring of large datasets.
• Deep learning and AI: Machine learning for pattern recognition and prediction in biomedical data.
• Applied bioinformatics: Data‑driven analysis of genetic information and biological systems.
• Elective modules: Opportunities for specialisation in areas such as genomics, disease modelling or precision medicine.

Interdisciplinary modules complement the scientific content, strengthening your skills in:

• Scientific working and communication: Planning, implementation and presentation of data-based projects in an interdisciplinary context.
• Innovation and project development: Promoting creative thinking and entrepreneurial action in data-driven environments.
• Professional profile development: Preparation for challenging roles in research, start-ups and industrial companies – both nationally and internationally.

A total of 50 ECTS credits (i.e. 17 modules each worth 3 ECTS credits) must be earned. Other modules can be selected: Module overview (English)

You can also plan your studies in advance with our MSc Life Sciences planning tool.

Direct admission requires:

• a Bachelor’s degree in a related field from a university of applied sciences or university with a good grade (Switzerland: A, B or ≥ 5; Germany/Austria: at least “good”),

• sufficient English proficiency.

If you do not fully meet the requirements, you may be invited to a personal interview.

Proof of sufficient English skills must be provided with one of the following certificates:

If you are unable to provide evidence of the required command of English, you are obliged to improve it during your master’s degree programme. You can either attend the advanced English course offered by the FHNW School of Life Sciences or other suitable language courses. At the end of the programme, proof must be provided that the required level of English has been achieved (see table above).