The "Nanobiotechnology" distance learning program (held in English)
University-based further training in the base technology of the 21st century
This distance learning program is offered in the current form since winter semester 2012/2013. Until the end of 2013, it is possible to take the examinations in the form offered from 2004 to 2011. If you are interested, we recommend that you take study counseling from DISC.
Nanobiotechnology is a very recent and fascinating area of activity and research, which may be called the "Fundamental Technology of the 21st Century". Several potential applications can already be identified, for example in the field of medical diagnostics and therapeutics and the development of new materials. The distance learning program, unique in Germany and offered by the DISC since 2004, caters to the highly interdisciplinary nature of nanobiotechnology.
Target group
The 12 month certificate program is aimed at people, who have already obtained a university or university of applied science (Fachhochschule) qualification in a natural science or engineering subject.
The course is held entirely in English.
Objective
The aim of this advanced online course is to convey a well-founded, wide-ranging basis of knowledge for developing, implementing and evaluating nanobiotechnological applications. In this way, the course graduates should find themselves in a position, where they are able to assess the manifold interrelationships and effects of these new technologies. On this basis, they will have the ability to elaborate useful applications for their own institutions.
Schedule and organization
The standard course duration for this part-time study, including examination time, is 12 months. It is also possible to take a break during the course and then return to complete it. The lectures and exercises are provided in the form of written study materias, which were developed specifically for distance learning. A weekly commitment of around 10-15 hours is required to study the material.
On campus events
Two on campus events are held for all participants in the "Nanobiotechnology" distance learning program. These events always take place on the weekend. Their goal is to reinforce the course contents within the scope of group work and workshops, discuss questions regarding the study material and debate the practical implementation of the program content. Written examinations are also a part of these on campus weekends.
In certain circumstances and based on a written application, students who are unable to attend these events have the option of taking the examinations at a Goethe Institute or a German embassy.
Program content
The distance learning program is made up of 11 topics, which include characterization techniques, chemical and physical synthesis of nanoparticles, processing coatings, ceramics and composites, basics of molecular biology, genetics, screening methods in biology, chip technology, nanotechnologically modified biomaterials, nanomotors, and nanoparticles for diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
Authors & modules
The course includes the following modules:
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Module / Study material / title |
Author |
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Study contents of the first term: |
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Fundamentals of Quantum Mechanics |
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Fundamentals of Molecular Biology |
Dr. Peter Reichmann |
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Nanoparticles as Therapeutic Drug Carriers and Diagnostics |
Prof. Claus-Michael Lehr |
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Molecular Nanosystems and Biosensors |
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Characterization Procedures of Nanomaterials |
Dr. Massimo Gatelli |
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Screening Methods in Biology |
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Study contents of the second term: |
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Physical and Chemical Synthesis of Nanoparticles |
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Processing Coatings |
Dr. Stefan Goedicke |
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Processing Ceramics and Composites |
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Interactions between Biological and Non-Biological Devices |
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Nanotechnologically Modified Biomaterials |
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Examinations
Assignments are to be sent in and examinations taken over the course of the study program. Once all assignments and examinations have been completed, the program is concluded with a graded certificate from the University of Kaiserslautern.
Costs
The study fees for the "Nanobiotechnology" distance learning program are EUR 750 per term. These tuition fees cover all costs for teaching material, participation in the on campus events, term exams, and all administrative expenses. However, they do not include any travel, accommodation, or meal expenses for the on campus weekends. The study fees are exempted from German VAT and are tax-deductible.
Financial Aid
The government can support you in financing your studies with individual tax incentives. Based on your personal rate of taxation and your professional situation, you can, for example, offset the costs as professional or special expenses. Please get in touch with your local revenue office or tax advisor for more information on this. In certain circumstances, the German government can also support you in your professional training with so-called training and qualification cheques (Bildungs- und Qualifizierungschecks). You can find information on this on the internet, for example at www.bildungspraemie.info.
Employers are often also willing to contribute to the costs of training for their workforce. And low-interest bank loans geared specifically to funding training courses and offered by the government and by banks, such as the KfW Development Bank, represent another good option. However, financial support as per the rules of Germany's Social Security Code (SBG III) or Federal Education and Training Assistance Act (BAföG) is not possible, unfortunately.
Application
You can apply for the "Nanobiotechnology" distance learning program from mid-May to 30th September of the respective year. Courses start at the beginning of October. The documentation required for application is available for » download (PDF) and submission as a written application.
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