MSc in
Master's Programme in Biorefineries
LUT University
Key Information
Campus location
Languages
English
Study format
Distance Learning
Duration
2 years
Pace
Part time
Tuition fees
EUR 13,500 / per year *
Application deadline
Request info
Earliest start date
Request info
* annual tuition for non-EU/EEA students
Introduction
Production has until now been largely based on fossil raw materials, which has, in turn, caused serious environmental challenges. The use of renewable raw materials where it is technically possible and economically feasible is one of the corner technologies for mitigating climate change and saving scarce natural resources.
Biorefineries implement a wide range of technologies and materials, and this program examines them with an open mind and a wide scope, including the opportunities they offer in terms of new competencies, solutions, and critical assessments. In this Master's program, you will specialize in biorefining and related industries in the circular economy.
The Master's Program in Biorefineries is delivered as flexible distance learning independent of place or time. It is well suited for people already in the working world in Finland or abroad, aiming for professional development and the upgrading of qualifications. Part of the courses has teaching sessions with a fixed schedule, whereas most assignments have a flexible schedule. There are no physical in-class sessions, but some online lectures are given during regular office hours.
Because the program is based on distance learning, international applicants from outside the EU cannot apply for a residence permit for the studies.
Admissions
Curriculum
The Master's Program in Biorefineries is a two-year distance learning program. The program leads to the degree of Master of Science in Technology, M.Sc. (Tech.), which is 120 ECTS credits.
The program includes core, advanced specialization, and elective studies as well as a Master's thesis. Read more in the study guide.
Core studies, 19 ECTS credits
Include introduction courses to M.Sc. studies and research in the field of biorefineries and chemical engineering in general. They also include studies on sustainability and the connection between technology and society.
Advanced specialization studies, 58 ECTS credits
Studies in biobased process engineering deal with, for example, alternative biorefineries and enabling technologies, e.g. separation technologies, biological wastewater treatment, and bioeconomy. Include capstone course (10 ECTS): Biorefinery process development project.
Elective studies
You can choose any discipline at LUT or other universities to complete 120 ECTS credits.
Master's thesis, 30 ECTS credits
An advanced research project during the program's fourth semester. The Master's thesis is a part of the advanced specialization studies and requires approximately six months of full-time work.
Program Outcome
During your studies, you will learn about the production of materials and design and develop processes based on modern biorefining technologies. As a graduate, you will possess a unique set of skills for designing, planning, assessing, and operating sustainable biorefining processes and products.
Teaching in this Master's program has been planned in cooperation with industry, and it takes advantage of the recent developments and new opportunities in the educational environment.
During your studies, you will acquire:
- knowledge of modern and future biorefining technology, products, and raw materials;
- skills in developing sustainable solutions and technologies and the ability to design practical biorefining applications;
- competence in technologies integrated into biorefineries, e.g. wastewater treatment;
- a professional network through teamwork in assignments, as most of the students, are working in the industry.
Scholarships and Funding
Early Bird discount / First academic year
When required to pay a tuition fee, you are offered
- an Early Bird Discount of EUR 6 000
for the first academic year if confirming your place and paying the rest of the tuition fee of EUR 7 500 within 21 days from the date of having received your Certificate of Admission.
Early Bird discount is available in both Regular Admission and Early Admission.
Finland Scholarship / First academic year
When required to pay a tuition fee, you can apply for a Finland Scholarship of
Full cover for a tuition fee + EUR 5 000 for the living costs for the first academic year
The scholarship can be applied for on your application form when applying to the programme.
Finland Scholarship is available only in Regular Admission.
In Regular Admission, there is
- one Finland Scholarship awarded in each programme
Exception: No Finland Scholarship in the Master's Programme in Biorefineries.
The scholarship will be awarded in the order of the highest points received in the evaluation process within the programme among the ones being eligible for the scholarships and having applied for it.
No preliminary statements about anybody's possibility for being awarded a Finland Scholarship or not as it all depends on the other applicants as well.
LUT Scholarship / Second academic year
When required to pay a tuition fee, you are offered
- LUT Scholarship of EUR 6 000
for the second academic year if having completed a minimum of 60 ECTS credits of studies included in the personal study plan during the first academic year.
With LUT Scholarship the tuition fee is EUR 7 500 for the second academic year.
The required ECTS credits will be automatically checked for and they must be included on your Transcript of Records by the end of the first academic year i.e. by 31 July.
Gallery
Career Opportunities
This Master's program is not restricted to the forest industry but applies more generally to industries related to the use of biobased renewable resources.
You will acquire the knowledge and skills to work in different fields of the biobased raw materials and products industries globally, most typically in research, development, or various operations of sites.
Interesting career prospects are found also with process equipment manufacturers.
In addition, you will obtain a firm basis for continuing your studies in doctoral programs.