Biomedical Surface Science, Master's Programme (Two-Year)
Information film about the programme
https://youtube.com/embed/I1PXESHO0T4?enablejsapi=1&rel=0&showinfo=1&controls=1
About the education
The programme creates a platform for understanding the involvement of surface science in biomedicine and biotechnology. You will get theoretical knowledge and practical skills in the areas of biomedical activities which require expertise beyond traditional disciplines of biomedicine, chemistry or biology.
The programme is carried out in close collaboration with regional industry representatives, and provides an up to date overview on research and development work in the area of biomedical technology. Education is conducted by researchers and lecturers who participate in an industrially relevant research network called Biofilms – Research Center for Biointerfaces. Our experimental facilities combine chemistry, cell and molecular biology, and bioanalytical laboratories.
We use different pedagogical forms with a strong focus on research questions in the development of biomedical products. Collaboration with surrounding biomedical industry is carried out through CDIO (Conceive, Design, Implement and Operate) projects.
Biomedical surface science refers to the knowledge and understanding of the theoretical and practical integration of surface chemistry in applied aspects of cell biology, immunology, molecular biology and nanotechnology. Biomedical surface science also includes specialised knowledge of surface chemistry in applied areas of cell biology, immunology, molecular biology, nano-biotechnology and colloid chemistry.
Drugs and biotechnology:
- small molecules — synthetic organic molecules
- biologics — biological molecules made by living organisms (biotechnology)
Devices and diagnostics:
- medical devices industry
- diagnostics — IVD (in-vitro diagnostics)
International opportunities
There are various opportunities for you to do part of your studies in another country. For example, you can do an exchange semester, write a thesis or do an internship abroad. Opportunities may vary depending on your course of study.
More about international opportunities on the Student Web
Certificate of International Merits
As a student at the Faculty of Health and Society, you have the opportunity to participate in various international activities both locally and abroad, and earn what is called a Certificate of International Merits (CIM). The CIM functions as a supplement to your diploma, demonstrating: your international experience; your academic, personal and professional development; your intercultural competence; and your ability to compare international contexts related to your career.
Courses within the programme
Autumn 2025 - Semester 1
- Biointerfaces in Practice and Theory (BM811E), 7.5 credits
- Surface Chemical Properties of Biointerfaces (BM812E), 11.5 credits
- Biointerfaces in Living Systems (BM813E), 11 credits
Spring 2026 - Semester 2
- Biological Interfaces in Molecular Biology and Nanotechnology (BM822E), 15 credits
- Biointerfaces in Immunology (BM821E), 15 credits
Autumn 2026 - Semester 3
- Biomedical Surface Science: Properties of Biological Barriers (BM831E), 7.5 credits
- Artificial Biointerfaces (BM832E), 15 credits
- Research Methodology and Ethics (BM833E), 7.5 credits
Spring 2027 - Semester 4
Entry requirements and selection
To be eligible for the programme, you must meet the entry requirements. The selection dictates how the available study places are distributed between applicants.
If you have any questions about general admission, you are welcome to contact us.
Entry requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (180 credits) or equivalent with a major in chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical technology, biomedical methods and technology, biomedical laboratory science, or in other areas of natural, medical, engineering sciences or technology of relevance to the programme with a minimum of 15 credits in chemistry and/or biochemistry.
- The equivalent of English 6 in Swedish secondary school.
Selection
100% University credits completed
“I love the fact that I learn how to see the invisible world around me"
Radvile Zubryte chose to study the Biomedical Surface Science after doing an internship at Malmö University during the third year of her bachelor’s studies. For her, master’s studies opens the door to pursuing a career in chemistry.
“I love the fact that I learn how to see the invisible world around me"
Radvile Zubryte chose to study the Biomedical Surface Science after doing an internship at Malmö University during the third year of her bachelor’s studies. For her, master’s studies opens the door to pursuing a career in chemistry.
What do you like most about the education?
“As a chemist I love the fact that I learn how to see the invisible world around me. I look at it as a secret room and I got the key. I see this beautiful world of molecules, compounds, how they communicate with each other and create everything around me including me! However, the more I study the more I understand how much I do not understand and how many secrets this planet holds for itself, for now..."
What is the classroom experience like?
“Oh, I love my group! This programme brings people from all around the world. It also exciting that everyone has different backgrounds, so we can learn from each other, discuss matters from different angles and this improves my learning experience.”
“You are encouraged to be more critical and to challenge new ideas, and I think that is where innovation begins”
When it came to choosing to study a master's programme, it was not only a wish to enhance his practical skills that motivated Reuben Victor Laguitan, but also a wish to gain more in-depth and developed knowledge about the topics he is interested in. Today, he is confident that Malmö was the best...
“You are encouraged to be more critical and to challenge new ideas, and I think that is where innovation begins”
When it came to choosing to study a master's programme, it was not only a wish to enhance his practical skills that motivated Reuben Victor Laguitan, but also a wish to gain more in-depth and developed knowledge about the topics he is interested in. Today, he is confident that Malmö was the best place to study his master's.
Why did you choose the Biomedical Surface Science Master’s programme?
"I did my bachelor in medical laboratory science way back home, and our discipline is focused on aiding physicians in the diagnosis of disease. It requires patience and critical thinking. My experience working in the laboratory grew a significant interest on my part, and so I thought, why not venture in the research domain?
"I began searching for a master's programme that fit my field and my interests. What made me choose this programme is because of how it offers a unique perspective by bridging biomedicine and surface chemistry, which are two different discipline. It is not entirely a new field, but rather a bridge that connects two different worlds and ventures on researches."
What do you like most about the programme?
"What I like about the education is how they balance the theoretical and practical aspects of each course. I love how the learning process is a fair share between professors and the students. I love how they don’t give any restriction when it comes to the way we accomplish our academic requirements. We assess our level of knowledge, and as long as you know your responsibilities as a student then, there will be no problem."
What is the classroom experience like?
"I like how well represented the students are when it comes to the professional and ethnical background in the class because it allows more diversity in terms of knowledge and experiences. This kind of classroom environment enables us to work in a multicultural setting and encourages collaboration. We do have dynamic discussions with professors, where you are encouraged to be more critical and to challenge new ideas, and I think that is where innovation begins."
What is your experience studying at Malmö University?
"The University allows me to see the world from a different perspective. I never knew that there are so many opportunities given to students like personal and professional development seminars which allows us to be more equipped and ready once we set out in the real world. The University allows a lot of opportunities to build connections, whether it is personal or professional through various student organisations and close collaborations with different biomedical industries."
What is your impression of Malmö and Sweden?
"Sweden is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever been to. Everything is well ordered, from safe and reliable transportation to equality amongst people and sustainable living. Coming in the city of Malmö for the first time, I instantly fell in love with its beauty because the city itself is young, modern and very international. I knew that choosing to come to Malmö to study is the best decision for my higher education."
