MSc in Environmental and Plant Biotechnology University of Agriculture in Krakow

Environmental and Plant Biotechnology (EPB) is a unique Master's Degree program offered in English for students from around the world who wish to be at the forefront of biotechnological developments.

EPB gives the opportunity to get the knowledge and skills in modern methods and techniques of environment preservation, reclamation, and use in a sustainable manner for human benefits.

Biotechnology, combining the newest scientific achievements, technological advancements, and the application of living organisms like microbes and plants, gives invaluable and unlimited possibilities to interact with the environment in a responsible manner, the environment we all live in and benefit from.

EPB students get interdisciplinary knowledge and skills based on proficiency in biological, agricultural, and technical sciences extended to advanced levels in the fields related to the use of biotechnology in solving environmental problems, in particular, they learn:

• genomics, proteomics, and regulation of gene expression,
• physiology of plants and microorganisms exposed to stress,
• effect of natural and anthropogenic compounds on organisms' development and degradation of the natural environment,
• techniques of microorganism, plant cell and tissue cultures in vitro,
• analytical methods and biotechnologies useful in study plant and microorganism metabolic processes and in environmental protection,
• bioremediation, phytoremediation and physico-chemical methods for environmental decontamination,
• biotechnology of water, sewage and activated sludge, waste management,
• reclamation of post-industrial lands,
• biotechnology in crop improvement,
• environmental protection policy,
• protection and management of intellectual property rights.

During lectures, laboratories, training, and trips, students are acknowledged with processes ongoing in microorganisms and plants at molecular, cell and system levels. They gain the experience and skills in analytical and biotechnological ways to monitor environmental changes, to protect biodiversity, and to act for bioremediation of polluted water and reclamation of contaminated and degraded post-industrial lands, including biotechnological ways of sewage utilization and waste management. Biotechnological and conventional approaches to crop improvement for sustainable agriculture will be also addressed. Students also develop teamwork and social skills while learning in international and multicultural communities.

Graduate profile

After completing the EPB study program, graduates have comprehensive, theoretical knowledge, skills, and competence distinguishing them as competitive candidates in the European labor market. Graduates understand in-depth issues related to the application of modern biotechnological approaches in the protection and sustainable use of environmental resources. They have the skills to use a range of state-of-the-art analytical and biotechnological methods to monitor and rationally manage environmental quality. In particular, they can be involved in projects concerning environmental protection, biological remediation of polluted water and land, reclamation of degraded areas, sewage treatment, waste management, and plant cultivation and improvement.

Graduates have sufficient professional competence to start-up a business as an independent entrepreneur, or to be recruited as an employee of administrative units and local governments, workplaces, and other entities. They are prepared to work in industrial laboratories and research institutions utilizing biotechnological approaches. They are also well qualified to continue their education and solve scientific problems within the framework of doctoral studies at universities worldwide.

Graduates of the EPB program are also well qualified to:

• consult industry, farmers, extension specialists, investors, and policy-makers in formulating appropriate Environmental Protection packages based on biotechnological methods as elements of the environment-friendly agricultural policy,
• play a leading role in integrating multidisciplinary knowledge and skills in the process of enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security at a local, national and global scales,
• be engaged in teaching and training activities at various levels of environmental protection and related issues.