University of Patras · School of Agricultural Sciences
MSc in Agri-Food Biotechnology
Biotechnology & AgroNutrition · from DNA to nutrition
An intensive, inter-departmental, distance-learning Master’s programme training scientists to apply biotechnological methods for safer, higher-quality and more sustainable food. One academic year, 75 ECTS.
Apply Now Browse Courses12 months
Full-time, intensive
75 ECTS
EQF Level 7
11
Courses + thesis
15+
Faculty across two departments
10+
International invited speakers
Programme at a glance
A distance-learning Master’s combining synchronous online lectures with two three-day in-person laboratory sessions per semester.
Online classes
Synchronous distance teaching via Zoom and the Open eClass platform of the Greek Universities Network.
Cohort of 30
Up to 30 students admitted each academic year, selected by academic dossier and interview.
Start of term
Winter trimester, September each academic year, following the University of Patras academic calendar.
Apply by 31 July
Online application via the University of Patras postgraduate portal, with interview by the Selection Committee.
EQF Level 7 award
Postgraduate Diploma in Agri-Food Biotechnology, awarded by the Department of Sustainable Agriculture.
What you will learn
Genomics and gene editing for resilient, high-yielding crop varieties (CRISPR, GWAS, genomic selection).
Microbial biotechnology for nutrition and health — probiotics, biofertilisers, fermentations.
Environmental bioremediation and circular-economy technologies that valorise agricultural waste.
Molecular detection of pathogens, allergens, mycotoxins, GMOs and food adulteration.
The One Health approach linking human, animal and ecosystem health across the agri-food chain.
Functional foods, novel proteins (insects, microalgae, cultured meat) and innovative packaging.
Bioinformatics, AI and precision agriculture for genomic, microbiome and remote-sensing data.
Research methodology, scientific writing and ethics — preparing a publishable Master’s thesis.
Three trimesters, one academic year
Two trimesters of taught courses (30 ECTS each) followed by a 15-ECTS research dissertation in summer.
Trimester 1 (Autumn)
Foundations
30 ECTS · 4 compulsory courses
- Introduction to Systems Agro-Biology
- Modern Techniques of Molecular Biology & Bioinformatics
- Applied Microbial Biotechnology
- Research Methodology & AI in Biotechnology
Trimester 2 (Spring)
Specialisation
30 ECTS · 1 compulsory + 3 of 5 electives
- One Health (compulsory, 9 ECTS)
- Advanced Crop Genomics
- Food Quality & Safety Biotechnology
- Novel & Functional Foods
- Environmental Biotechnology · Food Preservation & Packaging
Summer term
Research Thesis
15 ECTS · supervised dissertation
An original research project in molecular biology, microbiology, food chemistry, bioinformatics or environmental biotechnology — supervised by a three-member committee, defended orally, deposited in the University’s Nemertes repository.
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Latest news
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Admissions29 April 2026
Applications now open for the inaugural cohort — deadline 31 July 2026
Up to 30 places available. Online application via the University of Patras postgraduate portal, with selection by dossier and interview.
Programme29 April 2026
Self-assessment dossier submitted to HAHE for academic accreditation
The complete D1–D11 dossier for the new distance-learning MSc has been formally submitted to HAHE for initial accreditation under the ESG framework.
Event15 April 2026
Online info session — Thursday 22 May, 18:00 EEST
Live walk-through of the curriculum, admissions process and student-life logistics with the Programme Director and Coordinating Committee. Q&A in English.
Applications open until 31 July
Up to 30 students admitted per year. Eligible candidates hold a first-cycle degree in Agronomy, Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Veterinary, Pharmacy, Environmental Sciences or related fields.
View admission criteria Contact the Programme