Follow in Famous Chemist Justus Liebig's Footsteps
Study where Justus Liebig shaped modern chemistry. Choose a sustainable chemistry program blending theory and research, and build expertise in sustainable chemical processes.
Comprehensive Skill Development for Future Leaders
Build expertise in sustainability, advanced chemistry, and circular economy principles. You gain skills in heavy metal-free synthesis and catalysis to solve global chemical challenges.
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Global Academic Network and Excellence
Join a global academic network with 100+ partnerships and 250 Erasmus+ links. Backed by Excellence Initiative funding, JLU ranks among the world’s top 400 universities.rankings, it belongs to the 400 best universities worldwide.
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Steeped in History, Pioneering the Future
Founded in the heart of Europe, JLU traces its legacy to the 17th century. Study at a historic university that drives modern scientific research and innovation worldwide.
Make your campus your city in Giessen. Enjoy green spaces, the Lahn River, affordable living, free Hesse transit, and quick access to Frankfurt in a vibrant student town.
Embark on a transformative journey with the M.Sc. in Sustainable Chemistry at Justus Liebig University Giessen, where innovation meets sustainability. This cutting-edge program is designed for forward-thinking individuals aiming to lead the charge in sustainable development within the chemical sector. By integrating environmental and social considerations into chemical processes and products, students are prepared to emerge as pioneers in crafting solutions that prioritize resource efficiency, energy conservation, and global well-being. Dive into a world where chemistry contributes to a sustainable future, and become part of the next generation of experts dedicated to making a difference.
Ideal for aspiring chemists passionate about sustainability, this program seeks international students eager to merge chemical expertise with environmental and social responsibility. Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry (with at least 180 ECTS credit points) and present good English proficiency. If you studied a different but relevant subject, don’t worry: The examination board may recognize other courses of study as equivalent following a case-by-case assessment.
The M.Sc. in Sustainable Chemistry at Justus Liebig University Giessen offers a comprehensive and detailed journey through the principles and applications of sustainable chemistry over two years.
Year One: Foundational Knowledge and Elective Exploration
The first year lays the groundwork with core modules that introduce students to the Principles of Sustainability. You will be introduced to fields of knowledge such as the principles of sustainability, new frontiers in chemical sustainability and circular economy. Sounds good to you? So does it to us – especially taking into account the multiple international perspectives on the topic. The electives will also prepare you for your future career, whether it be in research or industry. Modules on innovation management for natural scientists and risk and quality management will pave your path with valuable practical skills.
Year Two: Become an Integral Part of International Research Groups
Transitioning into the second year, the focus shifts to research. Students engage in two research modules, where they join research groups to work on innovative projects in sustainable chemistry. This hands-on experience is complemented by a laboratory project, offering a deep dive into practical sustainable chemistry applications. The culmination of this journey is the Master's thesis, a significant research project that allows you to explore your chosen topic in depth.
Modules of the first year - Taught modules
Introduction to Principles of Sustainability
M.Sc. Seminar: New Frontiers in Chemical Sustainability
Sustainability of Organic Reactions: Principles of Green Chemistry
Sustainable inorganic chemistry: criticality, synthesis, substitution and recovery
Sustainable Energy Technologies
Circular Economy
three elective modules - from chemistry or other subjects (see below)
Examples for elective modules
Sustainable Water Treatment
Sustainable Materials Chemistry: Energy Materials
Sustainable Organic Chemistry
Innovation Management for Natural Scientists
Risk and Quality Management
and more
Modules of the second year - Research Modules
two research modules with lab work within a research group
a laboratory project in sustainable chemistry
Master's thesis (30CP)
This research-oriented program begins each winter semester on campus, offering a comprehensive blend of compulsory and elective modules in the first year, followed by intensive research in the second. Study in some of the most modern university chemistry laboratories and seminar halls in Germany, opened in 2016 and surrounded by green and cozy neighborhoods.
Graduates of this program enjoy diverse career opportunities, including:
Research and development in sustainable chemical processes
Roles in environmental regulation and compliance
Positions within public authorities focusing on environmental policies
Contributions to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in scientifically based environmental consultancy
Academic careers in sustainability and chemistry research
Leadership in innovation and sustainability within the chemical industry
This program's international scope and strong network with partner institutions worldwide opens doors to careers both nationally and globally, positioning graduates at the forefront of sustainable chemical innovation.
Explore sustainable chemistry in the digital age through DigiChem, an Erasmus+ network linking JLU with Padua, Zagreb, and Ljubljana, offering COIL courses and exchange opportunities.
Requirements
Qualification Requirements
The application requirements for the study program in "Sustainable Chеmistrу" are:
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Bachelor's (Undergraduate) Degrее
A Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related discipline with a minimum of 180 ECTS credits.
Additionally, previous studies must align with the "Empfehlungen der GDCh Studienkommission zum Bachelorstudium Chemie an Universitäten" (recommendations of the German Chemical Society‘s Study Commission for the Bachelor's degree in chemistry at universities), as verified by the examination bοard.
Applicants may be required to take an entry exam, assessing skills and knowledge as per specific chemistry standards, which may be required for admission, with at least three weeks' notice providеd.
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Additional Qualifiсatiοn
To bridge any gaps in knowledge and prepare students for the rigors of the Master’s program, admission may necessitate the completion of up to 30 ECTS of additional coursework. This requirement is to be fulfilled within the first two semesters of the program and is considered separate from the coursework of the Master's degree itsеlf.
Language Requirements
The following certificates are recognized as proof of your language proficiency.
English
CEFR English
min B2
TOEFL iBT
min 80
IELTS
min 6
UNIcert
min II
Does the university recognize "other equivalent language certificates"? yes
Additional information:
The examination board decides on the acceptance of other language certificates.
The application deadline for the M.Sc. Sustainable Chеmistrу at Justus Liebig University Giessen depends on the country where you obtained your previous degree. For applicants with a degree from non-EU countries, the application deadline is 15 August for the winter semester. Applications are made: Directly at university.
As an international student, the Masters program in sustainable chemistry offers a new take on chemistry, by focusing on sustainable methods and environmental responsibility. The course demonstrates how chemistry may help create a more sustainable future by skillfully bridging the gap between theory and practical applications. This course enables the opportunity to connect with fellow students from diverse backgrounds, making lifelong international friends and expanding my global network. I highly recommend this program to anyone passionate about sustainable chemistry.
I found the Master’s in Sustainable Chemistry to be very innovative and educational. The way the program is structured encourages pragmatism and critical thinking, both of which are useful when dealing with sustainability issues. Also, one of the most remarkable aspects is the international diversity. My classmates come from various parts of the world, bringing different cultural perspectives. All in all, the program is very well organised and links chemistry with sustainability objectives.
Location
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Justus Liebig University Giessen
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