Master's Program in Biological and Chemical Engineering for Sustainable Bioeconomy (BIOCEB)
Aalto University
About this program
Master's Program in Biological and Chemical Engineering for Sustainable Bioeconomy (BIOCEB)
As the first European joint programme focusing on bioeconomy, the Master’s Programme in Biological and Chemical Engineering for a Sustainable Bioeconomy (Bioceb) trains future research and innovation managers leaping to the forefront of the sustainable development movement. They are well-prepared for tackling global challenges like climate change mitigation and the preservation of biodiversity.
Climate change mitigation and the preservation of biodiversity are the most pressing challenges of our time. These complex phenomena cannot be solved in a vacuum but through transnational joint action. The Master’s Programme in Biological and Chemical Engineering for a Sustainable Bioeconomy (Bioceb) was founded upon these reconnaissances. As the first European joint programme focusing on bioeconomy, the 2-year programme trains future research and innovation managers leaping to the forefront of the sustainable development movement. Graduates will have not one, but three master’s degrees from highly recognised universities in the bioeconomy field, giving them a competitive edge and head start for their international career.
Admission requirements
You are eligible to apply in master's admissions if you have a bachelor’s degree. The bachelor's degree must be equivalent to 180 ECTS credits or three years of full-time study. The degree must give eligibility to apply for master’s degree studies at university in the awarding country. The awarding higher education institution has to be a recognised part of the official national education system of the country. It has to be accredited as a degree-granting higher education institution by the country where it is located or by a relevant international organisation (such as UNESCO).
For more information about admission requirements, please visit the university website.
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Program content
- An Introduction to Wood Properties and Wood Products
- Plant Biomass
- Fibres and Fibre Products
- Lignocellulose Chemistry
- Cellulose-Based Fibers (Green Line project-3rd stage)
- Polymer Blends and Composites
Program delivery
This programme is delivered in various locations. Please visit the university website for more information.
Tuition
For more information about tuition fee, please visit the university website
Qualification
Degree: Master of Science (Technology)
Credits: 120 ECTS
Study objectives
Upon graduating from the Master’s Programme in Biological and Chemical Engineering for a Sustainable Bioeconomy, the graduates who have selected a study path involving Aalto University will have:
- A thorough understanding of the technologies and processes involved in creating products and harnessing energy from biomass. Graduates have a comprehensive foundation in how wood, crops, plants and organic waste can be converted and used to create marketable bioproducts and renewable energy.
- The ability to incorporate systems thinking into problem solving. Graduates understand the interconnected and interdependent nature of the modern challenges and are able to suggest solutions from a holistic perspective.
- An interdisciplinary approach to their profession. Graduates have a versatile toolbox combining knowledge and skills of chemistry, biology, economic and environmental sciences as well as cross-cutting skills including project management.
- A vast international experience. Graduates will have studied and experienced life in at least two European countries, bridging them to an international network of like-minded individuals.
Continuing studies
The Master’s Programme in Biological and Chemical Engineering for a Sustainable Bioeconomy at Aalto is considered a great foundation for doctoral studies and post-doc positions.
Career paths
The Master’s Programme in Biological and Chemical Engineering for a Sustainable Bioeconomy allows students to personalise their professional profile and gain access to a number of different professions focusing on, for example:
- utilisation of plant-based materials in cutting-edge products,
- the design and development of products or processes combining chemistry and bioconversions, or
- on the setting up of new sustainable value chains.
The opportunities for graduates are numerous both in the academic and industrial world, as graduates are equipped with skills that meet a real need in many sectors. The transition to the professional world is ensured by a close collaboration with 19 international associated partners from industry, research and academia.
Internships in conjunction with the Master’s thesis enable students to develop their functional skills in laboratory training. For example, working on the design of lab scale bioreactor and studying the different aspects of the biotechnology processes will give practical knowledge that can be used in a future job to scale up to the pilot plant in cooperation projects with industry.
About this institute

Aalto University
With a unique combination of technology, arts and business programmes, of which more than 100 are offered in English, Aalto University is an excellent study choice for international students. Around 25% of our 13,000 degree students are international, making us...