Master of Science (Technology) degree is 120 ECTS credits. Master’s Programme in Life Science Technologies consists of major studies (60–65 ECTS), elective studies (25–30 ECTS), and master’s thesis (30 ECTS). Programme includes 10 ECTS of common studies for all students. Common studies are included in the major studies.

• Major studies (60–65 cr)
• Master's thesis (30 cr)
• Electives (25–30 cr)

Master's Programme in Life Science Technologies offers a multidisciplinary curriculum focusing on important aspects of current and emerging technologies for life sciences, covering fields such as biological data analysis and modeling, advanced biomaterials and bioelectronics, biomedical engineering and neuroscience. The programme draws on fundamental and applied knowledge on these fields, and is closely linked to research conducted in the participating schools and departments.

To prepare the graduates for their future work with large and often complex systems, the programme includes practical project works in groups, which provide skills for solving multifaceted and ill-defined problems similar to those faced in the actual professional life. These projects typically include experimental and practical components as well as fundamental theoretical aspects.

The programme also gives the student a comprehensive foundation for doctoral studies. The Bioinformatics and Complex Systems majors host a doctoral track with a selective student intake.

After graduation students of Life Science Technologies programme

1. will have relevant fundamental and applied knowledge and competencies within the specialization area as well as a good overview of current and emerging technologies and methodologies in the field of life sciences.
2. will have the necessary skills to develop innovative scientific and engineering solutions for health and wellbeing sectors, acknowledging the importance of responsible use of technology.
3. will be able to plan and execute research in life science, analyze data and report the outcomes both orally and in writing to different stakeholders
4. will have a solid foundation for further learning of professional skills by acquiring, evaluating, and processing scientific, technical and professional information.
5. will be able to work individually or as a member of a multidisciplinary expert team.

Professor in charge: Harri Lähdesmäki
Extent: 60 credits
Abbreviation: BIOINFO
Code: SCI3092

The Bioinformatics and Digital Health major in the Life Science Technologies programme is designed to give a strong competence in bioinformatics and biomedical/health data analysis methods. The major offers a solid background in probabilistic modeling, machine learning and data science to understand the methodological basis of bioinformatics and computational biology methods. The major gives skills and tools to develop new computational methods and models and to apply them to real world biomolecular and health data. Computer practicals are part of most courses ensuring understanding of both theory and practice of the methods.

State-of-the-art methods for analyzing next-generation sequencing and other 'omics data as well as biological networks are part of the curriculum. Examples of research questions studied include predicting drug-target interactions, reconstructing biological networks, identifying disease biomarkers from biomedical and health data, and modelling dynamical behavior of complex biological systems.

Mathematics, statistics and machine learning enthusiastic students are recommended to broaden their expertise in statistical data analysis, machine learning and artificial intelligence even further with additional optional courses or with an elective minor from Machine Learning, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. Similarly, elective minor from software systems and engineering nicely complements this major. Knowledge of biology and biological systems can be extended with an elective minor.

For the Bioinformatics and Digital Health major (60 ECTS credits) the students have to take the common compulsory courses of the Life Science Technologies programme (10 cr), compulsory major subject courses (15+15 cr), and choose additional courses (20 cr) from the compulsory or optional course lists given below. To complete the degree, students take language studies* (3 cr) and elective courses (minimum 27 cr). For elective courses, a minor subject, an international mobility period or an internship is recommended.

^{*If the student has already completed the required language studies in his/her BSc degree, they do not need to take language studies but 30 credits of elective studies. Further information on language studies is available on page Language studies.}

^{** CS-E5890 Statistical Genetics and Personalised Medicine and CS-E4880 Machine Learning in Bioinformatics are lectured every second year (alternating). CS-E4880 Machine Learning in Bioinformatics is lectured in 2022-2022 and CS-E5890 Statistical Genetics and Personalised Medicine is lectured in 2023-2024.}

Recommendations for elective studies for Bioinformatics and Digital Health

For the elective studies to accompany the Bioinformatics and Digital Health major, it is recommended to take a minor subject or an international mobility period or an internship. The autumn period of second year is the recommended time period for elective studies.

Recommended minors

The following minors given in Aalto University are recommended:

Life Science Technologies programme minors:

• Biomedical engineering
• Biosensing and Biolectronics
• Complex systems
• Human Neuroscience and Technology

Computer, Communications, and Information Science programme minors:

• Machine Learning, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence

In addition, University of Helsinki (www.helsinki.fi) offers courses suitable for elective studies in

• Algorithmic bioinformatics
• Molecular biosciences
• Biomedicine

Courses offered by University of Helsinki can be taken through the Flexible Study Rights (JOO) agreement. Further information on JOO studies is available on aalto.fi.

Recommendations for international mobility

An international mobility period of approximately one semester is recommended. The suitable timing for mobility is Autumn period of the second study year.

Professor in charge: Matias Palva
Extent: 65 credits
Abbreviation: BME
Code: SCI3059

Objectives

Biomedical engineering builds on physics, data science, and technology to observe and influence biological systems. This major introduces the student to key constructs in biological systems, physiological and physical signal generation therein, and the measurement and analysis of these signals. In addition, the major provides knowledge and skills for developing novel engineering solutions for diagnostic and treatment needs in health care. Biomedical Engineering major offers excellent foundations for pursuing a career in life science and medical technology industries as well as in academia.

For the major (65 ECTS credits) the students take the common courses of the Life Science Technologies programme (10 cr), compulsory major subject courses (15 cr), and choose optional courses (40 cr) from the course list given below. To complete the degree, students take elective courses (minimum 25 cr). For elective courses, a minor subject or an international mobility period is recommended.

^{E = lectured in even years
O = lectured in odd years} 

Study paths in Biomedical Engineering

For students who are interested in various data applications in health technology, and whose primary aim is to go to industry, including both larger medtech companies and smaller companies that operate at the border of medtech, healthtech and wellness, we recommend selecting courses from study paths. The study path for “Signals, information and decision support in health technology” is focused on signal processing and data science approaches that are relevant in the development of health technology applications. The study path for “Medical device engineering” bridges biomedical engineering knowledge and skills with understanding of the processes governing the development and validation of hardware and software medical devices.

Study path for signals, information and decision support in health technology

Study path for medical device engineering

Recommendations for elective studies for Biomedical Engineering

For the elective studies to accompany the biomedical engineering major, we recommend to take a minor subject, an international mobility period or an internship. The autumn term of second year is the recommended time for international mobility. For students interested in health technology innovation and industry, we recommend applying to HealthTech Linkage program offered by Department of Industrial Engineering and Management.

Recommended minors

The following minors given in Aalto University are recommended:

Life Science Technologies programme minors:

• Bioinformatics and Digital Health
• Biosensing and Bioelectronics
• Biosystems and Biomaterials Engineering
• Complex Systems
• Human Neuroscience and Technology
• Engineering Physics
• Mathematics

Recommendations for international mobility

An international mobility period of approximately one term is recommended. The suitable timing for mobility is the autumn term of the second study year.

Professor in charge: Tomi Laurila
Professors: Mervi Paulasto-Kröckel, Ilkka Tittonen, Simo Särkkä, Ilkka Laakso, Ivan Vujaklijan
Extent:  60 credits
Abbreviation: -
Code: ELEC3045

Objectives

The target is to educate engineering experts who have versatile comprehension of detection, processing and analyses of biosignals from various sources. To accomplish this the student is introduced to nanoscale phenomena, microfabrication techniques, biomaterials science,  biochemical recognition of biomolecules, physical transducers, sensor technologies and to good extent to various clinical equipment. The basic knowledge needed in the development of innovations in the field of biosensors and bioelectronics are provided. The students are also strongly encouraged to consider practical aspects and possible applications of their knowhow throughout their studies.

This major combines studies both in the theory and practice needed to design, develop, fabricate and characterize biosensors, biomedical devices and medical instrumentations. Hands on experience is gained to understand the biocompatibility of both organic and inorganic materials used in electronics as well as the interactions between low frequency electromagnetic fields and living tissue and in special applications these interactions even with single cells and biomolecules.

The major has been structured to allow for flexibility, and the student may emphasize chosen areas of interest. In addition to courses common to all Life Science Technologies masters (10 cr), the major has four mandatory courses (total of 20 cr).

Further, there are three thematic modules, each containing 25 cr: (1) Signal processing in biosciences, (2) Micro- and nanofabrication and (3) Biomaterials and electrochemistry. These are only suggestions and thus in addition to existing modules student can also compile his/hers own module or modify the existing ones.

^{* lectured in odd years}

Professor in charge: Mauri Kostiainen (1.8.2023 - )
Extent: 60 credits
Code: CHEM3028

The major in Biosystems and Biomaterials Engineering in the Life Science Technologies programme is designed to give graduates broad training and in-depth knowledge, combined with practical experience. Starting from the understanding of basic biological phenomena, three distinct tracks are offered that link biosciences with information technology, chemistry or biomaterials allowing students to work at the interfaces of these different fields. By using problem-based learning, the major supports the developments of skills and tools for solving the complex problems encountered within the fast-changing field of life sciences. Furthermore, the major supports the development of transferable skills such as organizing personal and teamwork, working as part of a team, and effective communication of scientific knowledge to a forum of peers and experts and to the general public.

Learning outcomes

After graduating from the Biosystems and Biomaterials Engineering major, the students:

• have an in depth understanding of cellular systems at the molecular and cellular level and possess basic experimental skills to genetically modify and analyse pro- and eukaryotic cells
• understand statistical methods and can apply them to real-world problems
• can work alone and in teams on multi-dimensional problems and communicate findings in oral and written form

Students of Biosystems Engineering track

• gain deep knowledge on the engineering of cellular systems using genetic engineering and synthetic biology tools for designing of genetic circuits and cellular pathways
• can develop and apply computational methods for analysis of biological high-throughput data and understand the underlying statistical and computational concepts

Students in the Chemistry of Life track

• demonstrate a broad knowledge of the fundamental concepts of organic chemistry and biology
• understand the reactivity of small organic building blocks, can design synthesis reactions accordingly and analyse their structures
• understand how biological means can support synthesis of organic molecules

Students in the Biomaterials track

• understand the theoretical framework for the synthesis of synthetic and biopolymers using chemistry, enzymes or cells and can identify suitable methods for their charaterization
• understand the molecular level phenomena and biophysical properties of materials and their implications on biomedical applications

The major comprises common compulsory studies of 30 ECTS of which 10 ECTS are common for all students in the Life Science Technologies Master’s Programme. Each track includes compulsory (20 ECTS) and elective studies (10 ECTS).

Recommendations for elective studies

For the elective studies to accompany the major, it is recommended to take a minor subject.

The following minors offered in Aalto University are recommended:

Life Science Technologies programme minors:

• Bioinformatics
• Biosensing and Bioelectronics
• Complex Systems
• Human Neuroscience and Technology
• Biomedical engineering.

Suitable elective courses can be found from the list of elective specialization courses and selected courses from Bioinformatics or other majors in Life Science Technologies program.

Professor in charge: Professor Jari Saramäki, Mikko Kivelä (1.8.2023-31.7.2024)
Extent: 60 credits
Abbreviation: CS
Code: SCI3060

The aim is to give the students a strong computational and theoretical background for understanding complex systems, from the human brain to a diversity of biological and social systems. The major has been structured such that the student can choose to emphasize the theory of complex systems or data science. Further, it is possible to add courses from other Life Science Technologies majors: e.g. the student can have a degree with 20 cr of data science and networks courses together with 25 cr of neuroscience courses. After completing their studies, the students have the necessary skills for interdisciplinary scientific careers, or, e.g. for data scientist positions in the industry.

The major has been structured to allow flexibility, and the student may emphasize chosen areas of interest. In addition to courses common to all Life Science Technologies masters, the major has a set of seven courses (35 cr) out of which at least five (25 cr) have to be chosen. After this, the student is free to choose the rest from two themes (Networks and Systems, Data Science and Machine Learning) as well as from other Life Science Technologies majors. It is, therefore, entirely possible to build a major that contains the fundamentals of complex systems and a number of neuroscience courses, or a combination of network science and machine learning, or a more mathematical networks track including courses from the department of mathematics. The student can also suggest other topics (economics, social sciences, etc); we are flexible and willing to tailor degrees that match the needs of the student.

Recommendations for elective studies

In their elective studies, the students are encouraged to take courses from other majors of the LifeTech programme, according to their interests. Courses in the field of information and computer science are also recommended. Internship and exchange are also recommended in elective studies.

Professor in charge: Lauri Parkkonen
Extent: 65 credits
Abbreviation: NEURO
Code: SCI3061

This major gives the students a strong background for understanding structure and function of the human brain, human cognition, as well as theoretical and practical knowledge of brain research methods and other neurotechnologies. After completing their studies, the students have an excellent background for a career in science and for applying their expertise in more applied fields such as medical technology, health and wellbeing, and game industry.

This major provides the students with up-to-date information on brain structure and function at different levels of analysis. Curriculum reflects the research interests of the faculty, who study sensory systems, cognitive functions, and develop brain research technologies. In modern neuroscience, command of advanced statistical and signal-analysis methods is mandatory; therefore, specific courses are included to cover this supporting field. The imaging courses of this major provide the students with an overview and hands-on practice of modern brain research methods.

Besides the regular lecture and course work, there is a compulsory special assignment, which exposes the student to a real research question and integrates him/her to a research team to learn the practices of the field and to develop his/her skills in reporting research.

^{* Please note that to take the course, you need to apply for non-degree study right with this application form. When you have completed the course, you need to apply for credit transfer (inclusion). Instructions on applying for credits transfer are available at Sisu instructions.} 

Recommendations for elective studies

Students are encouraged to take courses from other Majors of the Life Sciences Technologies programme, depending on own interests. Those who are especially interested in neurotechnologies, can extend their knowledge profile by taking courses from Biomedical Engineering major and Biosensing and Bioelectronics major.

Students choose 25–30 credits of elective studies depending on the extent of the major.

Elective studies must be university level studies that fulfill the degree requirements and, in general, studies that are offered as degree studies at the university in question. Universities also offer courses that are targeted for a larger audience.The suitability of these studies is evaluated taking into consideration the learning outcomes of the degree that the courses are planned to be included in.

A minor and/or individual courses can be taken as elective studies. Individual courses can also be taken from other programmes at Aalto University or from other Finnish universities through Flexible Study Right (JOO). Students can also participate in an international student exchange programme or do an internship (1–10 ECTS) in Finland or abroad. Further information on Flexible Study Right and internship is available in Into:

Studies at other Aalto Schools or in Finnish Universities

Practical training

Further information on minors at Aalto is available on the page Minors 2022-2024.

Students are required to complete a master's thesis, which is a research assignment with a workload corresponding to 30 credits. The thesis is written on a topic usually related to the student's major and agreed upon between the student and a professor who specializes in the topic of the thesis. The supervisor of the thesis must be a professor in the university, whereas the instructor(s) must have at least a master’s degree.

Master’s thesis work includes a seminar presentation or equivalent presentation. The student is also required to write a maturity essay related to the master’s thesis. 

The master’s thesis is a public document and cannot be concealed.

Mandatory language studies are included as part of the Finnish bachelor’s degree for students who have studied in Finland and whose language of education is Finnish or Swedish. If the mandatory language studies have not been completed in the Finnish bachelor’s degree,  the student must take 2 credits in the second national language and 3 credits in one foreign language, including both oral (o) and written (w) proficiency, as part of their master’s degree.

Students who have received their education in a language other than Finnish or Swedish, or received their education abroad, are required to complete only 3 credits in one foreign language.

In the Master’s Programme in Life Science Technologies, English is recommended as the mandatory foreign language.

Students who have received their education abroad and who already have excellent command of English (e.g. as their native language) may choose 3 credits of Finnish or 3 credits of Swedish courses instead, hence not covering the requirement of oral/written proficiency but meeting the language requirement of the degree. Finnish/Swedish studies (instead of compulsory foreign language studies) are agreed in your HOPS. 

Language studies are incorporated into students’ elective studies.

Further information on relevant courses is available from the Language Centre: Language and communication studies