MSc in Business Administration and Bioentrepreneurship

MSc BIO combines biology and biotechnology with business tools to help you understand how research becomes real- world innovation and viable business . Teaching includes real cases, industry input, and a three-month internship in a leading life science company.

About the programme Structure Study environment Entry requirements Career

About MSc in Business Administration and Bioentrepreneurship

Level

graduate

Programme type

2-year master programme

Duration

2 years

ECTS

120

Time commitment

Full-time

Language

English

Students

Gender distribution – men / women

28% / 72%

Average age

25.3 years

Foreign students

87%

Topics

Economics and mathematics Innovation and entrepreneurship

Why study MSc BIO?

To like and do well in the programme MSc BIO you should be interested in:

Bridge science and business

You are curious about how research in biology or biotech can lead to innovation. MSc BIO offers a rare chance to combine your scientific knowledge with business skills. You will learn to navigate both worlds and become a valuable asset in the industry.

Work with real companies

Students often highlight the close connection to the life science industry as a key strength. The programme includes real case work, guest lectures from industry experts, and the possibility of doing an internship in a Danish life science company.

Learn to turn ideas into impact

At its core, the programme is about entrepreneurship and innovation in life science. You will explore how to take scientific discoveries and turn them into viable products, services, or companies and understand the steps in between.

“I like that I have the opportunity to tailor and optimize my degree according to my strengths and interests.” Amalie
Student, Msc BIO

Connect science and business

The programme is designed for students with a background in biology, biotechnology, or other life sciences who want to expand their perspective beyond the lab. You will learn how to apply business tools and methods to scientific research, giving you the skills to help bring ideas to market.

The curriculum introduces topics such as finance, marketing, intellectual property rights, and business model design. The goal is to give you the ability to understand both the scientific and commercial sides of innovation.

Collaboration between leading universities

MSc BIO is jointly offered by Copenhagen Business School (CBS) in collaboration with the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) and the University of Copenhagen (KU). CBS brings expertise in entrepreneurship and business strategy while DTU and KU contribute advanced scientific knowledge and research in life sciences.

This cross-university setup creates a unique academic environment where you engage with both business and science at a high level.

“The level is slightly amplified due to a difference in teaching patterns and the fact that a block lasts only 2 months makes the experience feel more intensive.” Aaron
Student, Msc BIO

Experience the life science industry from within

The programme collaborates closely with the Danish life science industry. Teaching is based on real cases, and guest lecturers from biotech, pharma, and medtech companies bring current industry perspectives into the classroom. You will also complete a three-month internship in a leading life science company, giving you hands-on experience and a professional network.

Innovation at the core

The programme focuses on innovation in the life sciences. You will explore how research and technology can be transformed into products, companies, or services that make a real impact. The process of developing and commercialising new ideas is complex, especially in regulated sectors like pharma and biotech.

This programme helps you understand that process. From early-stage development and market validation to business planning and funding . It prepares you for roles where science and entrepreneurship meet.

See the programme regulations for Msc BIO

See you in February 2027

Are you considering a master programme at CBS? Then come to our next Open Day and learn more about your options.

Master events

See upcoming events that can help you with your study choice and admission.

Event

Open day for master programmes 2027

Date:

4 February 2027

Location:

Solbjerg Plads 3, 2000 Frederiksberg

Are you considering a master programme at CBS? Come visit us for Open Day and hear what your options are. Here you can meet students and staff, pose your…

View event

Structure

Economics and mathematics

You learn to use economic theory and quantitative analysis to understand and evaluate business decisions in the life sciences sector. Economics and mathematics in Business Administration and Bioentrepreneurship provide a strong analytical basis for assessing investments, market potential, and value creation.

Innovation and entrepreneurship

You learn how to transform scientific discoveries into business opportunities. Innovation and entrepreneurship in Business Administration and Bioentrepreneurship focus on how new technologies and ideas can be developed, financed, and scaled to create value in the biotech and life science industries.

MSc BIO

Economics and mathematics – 40%

Innovation and entrepreneurship – 60%

3 things to consider

3 good reasons to choose MSc BIO

Are you ready to work across disciplines?

The BIO programme brings together students from both life science and business backgrounds. To succeed, you need to be open to new ways of thinking and willing to collaborate with people who approach problems differently.

You want to help bring science into the real world?

This programme is not just about learning business theory. it’s about applying it to scientific ideas and innovations. If will learn to turn research and technology into real-world solutions, products, or companies.

Are you interested in working closely with industry?

MSc BIO has strong ties to the Danish life science sector, and a core part of the programme is a three-month internship in a company. This means you'll work on real business challenges and gain hands-on experience in a professional setting.

Programme overview

1st semester

1st year

2nd semester

1st year

3rd semester

2nd year

4th semester

2nd year

More about the programme progression

Here you can read more about the specifics of MSc BIO

Studying in English

If you do not have a bachelor degree taught in English, we recommend that you read more about what to consider before applying for an English taught programme.

Read more on Teaching and working methods.

Year 1: Biology and biotechnology

The first year focuses on advanced biology and biotechnology. You will complete 60 ECTS of life science courses at either University of Copenhagen, Technical University of Denmark, or another approved Danish or international university.

You can find an overview of the 1st year and course descriptions in the programme regulations for MSc in Business Administration and Bioentrepreneurship.

If you have already completed equivalent coursework, you may apply directly to the second year at CBS.

Read more about second-year admission.

Year 2: Business and bioinnovation at CBS

The second year takes place at CBS and focuses on translating life science into business. You’ll develop skills in entrepreneurship, innovation, and commercialisation of research.

Fourth semester: Master's thesis

The final semester is dedicated to your thesis. You have the option to arrange an internship in a biotech, pharma, or industrial bio company. If you do, your thesis can be based on insights from your internship and address real-world challenges in the field.

Options during the programme

First year

Enrolment requires a bachelor in biology/biotechnology. The first year of the master’s programme allows you to further develop skills and insights into advanced biology and biotechnology. Course packages of 60 ECTS, meeting first year’s requirements, are offered by University of Copenhagen and Danish Technical University. You may also take your first year of biology/biotechnology at any Danish or international university offering an equivalent course package.

Second year

The second year of the programme is taught exclusively at CBS. In the second year, courses and project work at CBS train you in the business skills required to translate bio-innovation into start-up firms and life science firms. You learn to combine your previous training in life science with the concepts and tools for business analysis.

Mandatory courses on your third semester

Third semester courses include topics like innovation management, market understanding, finance and bioentrepreneurship.

Master's thesis

In your fourth and final semester you complete an master thesis activity. You may organise an internship in a life science company in the Copenhagen region within biotech, pharma of industrial bio. The internship is optional and you must organise it yourself. Your thesis may present a systematic, in depth analysis of selected issues you may have encountered if you have completed an internship.

“The level is slightly amplified due to a difference in teaching patterns and the fact that a block lasts only 2 months makes the experience feel more intensive.” Aaron
Student, Msc BIO

Study environment

Small cohort

A maximum of 40 students are enrolled per year. Therefore, the students' time with faculty is unusually high, and many students develop strong working relationships with their professors. You will get to know everyone in your class, and there is a good environment for working in groups and exchanging knowledge both in and outside the classroom.

Different backgrounds

The study environment offers an opportunity to train your interdisciplinary skills. Students from life-science degrees work closely with business students on assignments and projects. Initially, it may be challenging for life-science students to adjust to another academic language, and to work together with students with a different mindset. However, the different backgrounds of student is one of the most valuable aspects of the study environment in BIO.

Student life at CBS

Studying at CBS is much more than just preparing for and going to classes.

At CBS, there are more than 20,000 students with different backgrounds and nationalities. Teamwork is an essential part of studying at CBS both in classes and in extracurricular activities. With more than 100 student organisations, you also have plenty of opportunities to engage and connect with students across programmes and classes.

Learn more about the vibrant student life at CBS, the student organisations, and the international environment on Student life on CBS.

For internationals

If you are an international student, we have gathered a lot of information about what it is like to be an international student at CBS and how you can prepare for life in Denmark.

Read more on International students.

Meet the students

Amalie

“ I chose the BIO programme because it provides me the opportunity to explore the field of life science innovation and its potential for future career opportunities. ”

Programme: MSc BIO

From: Oslo, Norway

Age: 22

Educational background: BSc Biological Sciences (Human Health) at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland

Why did I choose my programme (and CBS)?

What drew me to CBS was the opportunity for a second-year internship at a biotechnology company, offering hands-on experience. This programme allows me to further build on my academical career within biology while at the same time equipping me with new skills within business and entrepreneurship, which i believe will give me a competitive edge as I step into my career.

What do I like the best?

I like that I have the opportunity to tailor and optimize my degree according to my strengths and interests, due to the wide choice of elective courses in the first year. The programme has a very diverse curriculum, although heavily oriented around biology in the first year. In the second year the programme transitions into to more business-oriented courses, which I am also very excited about. Overall, the flexibility and quality of the curriculum makes this programme an ideal fit for my academic and career aspirations.

How do I experience the difference in academic level between my bachelor and master programme?

Moving from my bachelor's to the master's programme meant taking more ownership of my learning. I have definitely noticed that more self-study is required, but with more independence comes a greater opportunity for personal growth and development. However, it did feel like a natural transition coming here from my undergrad, and there is an abundance of resources to help you along the way, should you ever feel overwhelmed.

What are the biggest challenges in my programme?

I think the biggest challenge lies in the short 8-week duration per course. This means that the overall atmosphere is quite high-intensity, which requires a lot of focus and effective time management in order to keep up with the course. I have found that establishing a good routine has become crucial to balance academic life with my life outside of university. Once you get adjusted to the tempo, you realize that it is indeed a very effective way of learning, more so than having four final exams at the end of a semester.

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?

Before joining the programme, I wish I had known more about the practical experiences offered. Exploring more internships opportunities or industry connections could have helped shape my course decisions. Also, exploring student job opportunities beforehand would have been beneficial, considering the abundance of possibilities available. Luckily, job offers are posted continuously, so the chance definitely isn't lost despite not landing a job early in the semester.

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?

I am still exploring my options, but I am drawn to innovation roles in the biotech industry - product development within the food industry and eco-innovation initiatives are some of the areas I find appealing. Mostly I am excited about the vast range of possibilities, which I have come to discover by connecting with various companies through opportunities made possible by the BIO programme. This exposure has offered insights into diverse industries and the opportunities within.

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…

Trust the process and enjoy being a student while you can. Engage with your peers and professors and stay curious. Stay open to new experiences, ask for help when needed, and remember that it's okay not to have all the answers from the start. Prepare for the lectures as best as you can, it will make them so much more durable to sit through. This is your chance to grow and evolve—make the most of every opportunity.

Aaron

“ The option to combine an internship with the thesis in order to gain practical experience was a definite stand out to me. ”

Programme: Msc BIO

From: Bangalore, India

Age: 21

Educational background: BSc Molecular Biology, The University of Manchester, UK

Why did I choose my programme (and CBS)?

I really appreciated the 2-year intensive syllabus to understand many facets of bioentrepreneurship. It was the combination of the internship and the master's theses coupled with Denmark being a key player in the life science industry that urged me to choose my programme. I am an international student and I love experiencing new cultures, this was also a key deciding factor in choosing Copenhagen.

What do I like the best?

I liked the concept of reinforcing my scientific acumen first and then gradually transitioning to a more bio-business-oriented course. This makes me gain a good firm understanding of general science although one could tailor it based on their likeness. This flexibility the programme offers in choosing units made this programme a lucrative choice with a good balance of business and science overall to facilitate active interdisciplinary learning among the student body.

How do I experience the difference in academic level between my bachelor and master programme?

The level is slightly amplified due to a difference in teaching patterns and the fact that a block lasts only 2 months makes the experience feel more intensive. The teaching style is vastly different too, with my present program being more grounded in the basics and placing an emphasis on overall learning. This felt like a vast difference initially and can impact how one perceives the difference in the "level" of their previous course to their current course.

What are the biggest challenges in my study programme?

Getting accustomed to the block system and longer than usual lecture durations was a big challenge for me initially as it took a different kind of preparation and planning in advance. This was especially challenging as an international in Denmark as there were requirements to acquire my residence and healthcare-related requirements while balancing my education. This can be overcome but just takes some getting used to. Additionally, the lack of practice in oral exams made the testing of my courses harder as it wasn't something I was used to.

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?

I opted for this program with an open mind willing to experience the challenge of transitioning between professional backgrounds. However, I wish I networked more with my peers from previous batches to understand the complexities of student life with this program and for any tips and suggestions. Additionally, the requirements demanded of the compulsory "Big data in Biotech" module was percieved to be higher than stated, and being the first course was more challenging and confusing than anticipated.

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?

I currently have no solid plans, however, life science-related consulting is a top choice for me at the moment. I aspire to be connected to the Bio-innovation sector that bridges science, innovation and business with the aspects of commercialization. Translating innovation to impact is a goal of mine and is something I aspire to have involved with my career. The purpose of choosing my course was to discover how I can best apply this to a range of professions.

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…

Discovering an effective routine and work ethic even before starting would be ideal to better transition into the work-intensive course it can be. Maybe also establishing strategies to better my work-life balance based on my priorities could have been done in more depth. This would take some introspection so that I stay on top of my work but still establish a good work-life balance and cater well to my hobbies and interests.

Teaching and exams

Teaching

The combination of a small number of motivated students, and passionate professors creates a unique learning environment. As a student you are expected to prepare for and participate actively in class.

The classes are based on co-teaching, involving both CBS and industry faculty. Courses make use of real-life case work, creating interaction between students and teachers. The intern possibility will give you a unique mix of analytical and practical skills, and a strong background for building your career in the life science industry.

Read more on Teaching and working methods.

Exams

At CBS each course is concluded with an examination. The courses are structured in quarters, and therefore exams take place in end-October, January, March, and May/June. The typical exam forms are oral exams, in some courses based on a mini-project and 4 hour written exams.

The programme is concluded with a master's thesis that builds on the practical issues you have addressed during your internship and your bioentrepreneurship project.

Read more on Exam.

Student life at CBS

Being a CBS student is about more than going to lectures and doing exams.

Get a glimpse of student life at CBS. Here, you can explore what a typical day of teaching and exams looks like.

Also, you can learn how our programmes are structured and read about social life on campus, including the many ways to connect with fellow students.

Time consumption

Workload

On the master’s programme, you will work more independently than on the bachelor’s programme, and teaching places greater emphasis on preparation as well as in-depth individual study.

If you are studying on a full-time graduate programme, you should expect spending approximately 37 hours on average on your studies each week. The workload will vary during the year.

Hectic around exams

The time leading up to assignment submissions and exams can be hectic, and you can easily work more than 40 hours a week in this period. Preparing for oral exams can be especially time consuming, because you have to be able to explain and discuss the covered concepts and theories and learn things by heart.

Read more on Teaching and working methods

Student job

Most programmes are quite flexible in terms of combining studies with a student job. Most students work a maximum of 15 hours a week in order to have sufficient time for their studies.

Studying in Denmark - for internationals

If this is your first time studying in Denmark, you may find teaching and exam formats, the grading scale and the academic calendar very different from what you are used to.

Read about everything you need to know as an international student studying at CBS on International students

In need of special support?

Do you have a disability such as dyslexia, anxiety, autism, ADHD, long-term effects of concussion or another physical, psychological or neurological disability?

Then you have the opportunity to apply for Special Educational Support (SPS) and special conditions while studying.

This ensures you can study on equal terms with your fellow students.

Entry requirements

You are qualified for admission to the study programme if you fulfil the following requirements.
Please note that fulfilling the requirements does not guarantee you a study place.

1. Bachelor degree

You must have a bachelor degree before study start.

2. Language requirement

You must fulfil the language requirement before the application deadline.

3. Academic requirements

You must fulfil the academic requirements before study start.

1. Bachelor degree

You must hold a bachelor degree to fulfil the general requirement for admission to CBS’ master programmes. You must have completed your bachelor degree before study start.

Legal claim

No applicants have a legal right of admission to this programme as it is not the natural progression for any bachelor degree.

Have you not yet completed your bachelor degree?

You can apply for admission even if you have not yet completed your bachelor’s degree. However, you must finish it before study start. If you are offered a place, you will be conditionally admitted, which means:

You must complete your bachelor’s degree before you can begin your studies at CBS.
You must upload your bachelor diploma and transcript no later than 31 August.

2. Language requirement

English B with minimum grade level 2.0 Danish upper secondary exam Other upper secondary exams Language tests CBS bachelor degree

Find your country

Only the exact qualifications listed below fulfil the English B with minimum grade level 2.0 language requirement.

In your application you must upload the exact documentation described below, as proof that your upper secondary qualifications fulfil the language requirement.

If you do not have one of the upper secondary qualifications below, you will need to take a language test.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

Required qualifications

English A1, higher level
English A2, higher level
English B, higher level
English A1, standard level
English A2, standard level
English A Language and Literature, higher level
English A Language and Literature, standard level
English A Literature, higher level
English A Literature, standard level
English B, standard level

Required documentation

Official IB transcript issued by IBO. Alternatively, you can give CBS access to your results via IBO.org.

European Baccalaureate (EB)

Required qualifications

L I
L II
L III – 6 years
L III – 4 years
L IV – 4 years (4 hours)

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

2020 and before: minimum 6.00
From 2021: minimum 5.00

Required documentation

Official EB transcript

Austria

Required qualifications

English as a first foreign language, min. 9 weekly hours accumulated during the final three years of the Oberstufe.

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 4

Required documentation

Reife- und Diplomprüfung diploma certificate including Stundentafel covering (min.) 5 years of the Oberstufe.

Reifeprüfung diploma certificate including Stundentafel covering (min.) 4 years of the Oberstufe.

Australia

Required courses and levels

A complete upper secondary education from Australia, where the majority of the education has been taught in English, fulfils the English B language requirement.

Required documentation

Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (SSCE) as well as Statement of Result or Record of Achievement or Qualifications Certificate, covering subjects and grades during the last two years of the secondary education.

Belgium (French part)

Required qualifications

English Langue moderne 1
English Langue moderne 2

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 50

Required documentation

Certificat d’enseignement Secondaire Supérieur (C.E.S.S.): Section générale OR technique OR artistique AND

Grade transcript including the grades and hours for the final 3 years

Bulgaria

Required qualifications

English as first foreign language (556 hours)

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 3

Required documentation

Diploma za (Zavarsheno) Sredno Obrazovanie / za Sredno Obrazovanie and
Grade transcript for Years 10, 11 and 12

Canada

Required courses and levels

A complete upper secondary education from Canada, where the majority of the education has been taught in English, fulfils the English B language requirement.

Required documentation

High School Diploma / Graduation Diploma (or equivalent for your province) as well as Transcript of grades / High School Results (or equivalent for your province)

Croatia

Required qualifications

Minimum total sum of 9 weekly lessons* over years 10, 11 and 12 in Foreign Language 1

* We look at the number of lessons, not the number of hours.

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 2

Required documentation

Svjedodžba o Državnoj Maturi and
Final 4 years of exam results

Czech Republic

Required qualifications

Minimum 3 lessons per week in the final three years of the Maturita (equivalent to level B2 in the first foreign language according to Eurydice)

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 4

Required documentation

Vysvedcení o Maturitni zkoušce and
Exam results for all years of the Vysvedcení o Maturitni zkoušce and
School document showing the number of lessons per week for the final three years

England, Wales, Northern Ireland

Required courses and levels

A complete upper secondary education taught in England, Wales or Northern Ireland or
A level English Language or
A level English Literature

Required documentation

GCSE certificate(s) (with a min. of 6 subjects) as well as A-level (Advanced level) certificate(s) (with a min. of 3 subjects) both taken in the UK or
Official A level certificate for either English Language or English Literature

Estonia

Required qualifications

Min. 8 "kursuste arv" in English

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

3 (Loputunnistus)
20 (Riigieksamenitunnistus)

Required documentation

Gümnaasiumi Lõputunnistus and
Hinnetekeht and
Riigieksamenitunnistus

Finland

Required qualifications

Minimum 8 English courses

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 5

Required documentation

Official certificate - Ylioppilastutkintotodistus / Studentexamensbetyg) and
Official transcript - Lukion päästötodistus/Avgångsbetyg från gymnasiet

France

Required qualifications

English Langue vivante A
English Langue vivante B
English Langue vivante I
English Langue vivante II

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 10

Required documentation

Baccalauréat general diploma and
Relevé des notes

Germany

Required qualifications

Regardless of federal state: English studied in each of the four half-years of the Qualifikationsphase, passed with an average of 5 points (punkte) or higher in total
For Waldorfschule/Rudolf Steiner Schule: English passed (5 points (punkte) or higher) as a Prüfungsfach in the Abiturprüfung

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 5 Punkte

Required documentation

Exam certificate Abiturzeugnis and
Exam results for exams (finals) and half-year results for the final 2 years

Hungary

Required qualifications

English as a first foreign language

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 2

Required documentation

Gimnaziumi erettsegi bizonyitvany and
Gimnaziumi bizonyitvany

Iceland

Required qualifications

For upper secondary studies completed according to the 2008 reform:

Minimum 15 Fein (new credits) obtained in English; of these, minimum 10 Fein must be at Þrep (qualification level) 3 or higher

For upper secondary studies completed according to the 1999 reform:

Minimum 15 einingar (old credits) obtained in English; at least one English subject must be at level 5 or higher (ENS 103+203+303+403+503)

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 5 (modulebase)

Required documentation

Stúdentspróf (the diploma must include all course codes)
Remember to upload your Icelandic diploma, not only the English version.

Ireland

Required qualifications

A complete upper secondary education from Ireland, where the majority of the education has been taught in English.

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:
7 (Ordinary Level)
7 (Higher Level)
D3

Required documentation

The Established Leaving Certificate Examination (Leaving Cert) with a min. of 6 subjects total

Italy

Required qualifications

Classico: English as the obligatory first foreign language
Scientifico: English as the obligatory first foreign language
Linguistico: English as the obligatory first, second or third foreign language
Artistico: English as the obligatory first foreign language
Scienze umane: English as the obligatory first or second foreign language
Musicale e coreutico: English as the obligatory first foreign language

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

6 (0-10 scale)
36 (0-60 scale)
60 (0-100 scale)

Required documentation

Diploma di Esame di Liceo (Classico/Scientifico/Linguistico/Artistico/Scienza Umane/Musicale e Coreutico) and
Scrutinio di quinta superior

Latvia

Required qualifications

The obligatory course in English (first foreign language) fulfils the requirement

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 4

Required documentation

Atestâts par vispârējo vidējo izglîtîbu and
Pielikums atestâtam par vispârējo vidējo izglîtîbu and
Vispârêjâs vidējâs izglîtîbas sertifikâts
Izglîtîbas satura un eksaminâcijas centra sertifikâts (only if there is a State exam in one or more subjects)

Lithuania

Required qualifications

English (1. foreign language) as bendrasis kursas (basic level)
English (1. & 2. foreign language) as isplestinis kursas (high level)

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 4

Required documentation

Brandos Atestatas and
Brandos Atestatas Priedas

Luxembourg

Required qualifications

A minimum of 210 full teaching hours (of 60 minutes per hour) with an exam passed at upper secondary school level

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 30

Required documentation

Diplôme and
Certificat de notes

Malta

Required qualifications

I level English

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: E

Required documentation

Matriculation Certificate and Advanced Level Certificate and Intermediate Level Certificate

The Netherlands

Required qualifications

The obligatory course in English fulfils the requirement

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 6

Required documentation

Voorbereidend Wetenschappelijk Onderwijs Diploma and
Cijferlist

Norway

Required qualifications

Engelsk VG English 1 (SPR3029 & SPR3030)
or
Engelsk VG2 International English (SPR3008 & SPR3009)

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 2 (average of all courses)

Required documentation

Official (digitally signed) transcript for the Vitnemål for videregående opplæring

New Zealand

Required qualifications

A complete upper secondary education from New Zealand, where the majority of the education has been taught in English, fulfils the English B language requirement.

Required documentation

National Certificate of Education Achievement (NCEA) levels 1 and 2 and 3

Portugal

Required qualifications

Cursos gerais do ensino secundário - Humanidades: 1. Foreign Language in English
Cursos científico-humanísticos: The obligatory 1. Foreign Language in English or English as Opçoes C og D

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 10

Required documentation

Exam certificate and
Documentation from school confirming the level of your subjects/your total number of classes in English as first foreign language.

Romania

Required qualifications

Theoretical line: Humanities; Specialisation: Filologie English fulfils the entry requirement
Theoretical line: Humanities; Social Studies English fulfils the entry requirement

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:
Minimum grade: 5

Required documentation

Diploma de bacalaureat and
Foaie matricola

Scotland

Required qualifications

A complete upper secondary education from Scotland, where the majority of the education has been taught in English, fulfils the English A language requirement.

Required documentation

Scottish Qualification Certificate as well as Summary of Attainment, Detail Record of Attainment and Profiles

Singapore

Required qualifications

A complete upper secondary education from Singapore, where the majority of the education has been taught in English, fulfils the English B language requirement.

Required documentation

Singapore-Cambridge GCE A-level exam certificate with a min. of 4 (H1, H2 and H3) exams total, as well as General Paper and Project Work

Slovakia

Required qualifications

1. Foreign Language in English with a minimum of 210 taught hours

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 4

Required documentation

School-Leaving Exam Certificate – Vysvedcenie o maturitnej skúske and
Supplement to Certificate of School-Leaving Examination and
Grade transcripts for years 10, 11 and 12

Slovenia

Required qualifications

The obligatory course in English as first foreign language fulfils the requirement if passed during the 2nd, 3rd and 4th year.

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 2

Required documentation

Spricevalo o splosni maturi / Maturitetno sprièevalo and
Obvestilo o uspehu pri splosnui mature and
Letno spricevalo for the 4th year

South Africa

Required qualifications

A complete upper secondary education from South Africa, where the majority of the education has been taught in English, fulfils the English B language requirement.

Required documentation

National Senior Certificate (Matric/Matriculation Certificate) as well as grade transcript covering subjects and grades during all three years of studies

Spain

Required qualifications

English as the obligatory first foreign language

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: 5

Required documentation

Título de Bachiller / Bachillerato exam certificate

Sweden

Required qualifications

Before 2014: Engelska min. Kurs C
After 2014: Engelska steg 7 (ENGENG07)

Grade requirement

Equivalent to 2.0 on the Danish grading scale:

Minimum grade: E (A to F scale) 10 / G (Prior to the latest reform)

Required documentation

Official transcript for Gymnasieexamen från ett högskoleförberedande program or Slutbetyg från Gymnasieskolan

United States

Required qualifications

A complete upper secondary education from the United States, where the majority of the education has been taught in English, fulfils the English B language requirement.

Required documentation

High School Diploma as well as High School Grade transcript (covering all four years’ worth of subjects and grades) taken in the US.

If you need to take a language test, your scores must be available to CBS Admissions by the application deadline at the latest.

Make sure you register for your English language test well before the application deadline. It can take around three weeks from the test date before CBS receives your results.

If you have already taken an IELTS or TOEFL test, please check that the test date is still valid.

The test date – not the date your results were issued – must be less than two years old by the application deadline. If the test is more than two years old, we cannot accept the result.

TOEFL

TOEFL iBT/iBT Home Edition

The TOEFL iBT/ iBT Home Edition taken on or after 21 January 2026 must be passed with

a minimum overall score of at least 4,5 (new scale)

Exceptionally, we accept an overall score of 83 (old scale) in 2026.

The TOEFL iBT/ iBT Home Edition taken before 21 January 2026 must be passed with

a minimum overall score of at least 83

MyBest scores are not accepted.

Documentation

Your TOEFL scores will be verified in the TOEFL database. You must list Copenhagen Business School as one of your score recipients when you sign up for the TOEFL test, or order a score sheet for Copenhagen Business School if you have already taken the test.

The TOEFL institution code for CBS is 7035.

You must upload either your digital copy, or a scan of your hard copy, TOEFL score sheet to the Application Portal.

Have you already passed a test?

Remember to check that your test date is no older than two years by the application deadline.

Be aware that it is your test date and not the date your test results were issued. If your test date is more than two years old by the application deadline, your test will not be accepted.

IELTS

IELTS Academic test

An IELTS academic test result of at least 6.5 is required.

We accept IELTS Online but note that IELTS One Skill Retake scores are not accepted.

Required documentation

Your IELTS results will be verified in the IELTS database.

Please instruct your test centre to make your results available to Copenhagen Business School, either when you book your IELTS test or after the test date.

You must also upload a scan of your IELTS test report form to the Application Portal.

If you have not received the physical test report form, you can upload a document with the "Test Report Form Number" (TRF Number) so we can verify your scores.

Have you already passed a test?

Remember to check that your test date is no older than two years by the application deadline.

Be aware that it is your test date and not the date your test results were issued. If your test date is more than two years old by the application deadline, your test will not be accepted.

Cambridge

Cambridge exam

A Cambridge C2 Proficiency (Certificate of Proficiency in English) or a Cambridge C1 Advanced (Certificate of Advanced English) is required (no minimum score required).

Documentation

You must upload your Cambridge C2 Proficiency (CPE) or Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) Statement of Results and/or Certificate.

Your results are only valid if they can be verified through the Candidate Results Website. Make sure to register for the service and share your results with Copenhagen Business School.

There is no expiration date on the validity of the CPE/CAE exam results.

3. Academic requirements

Your educational background will be subject to an overall individual assessment in order to establish if your bachelor's degree qualifies you for the programme and the academic areas listed below are covered in full and as prescribed.

The academic entry requirements are min. 37.5 ECTS within the following areas:

Min. 15 ECTS within a biological system (plants, animals or microbiology)
Min. 15 ECTS within biochemistry/organic chemistry
Min. 7.5 ECTS within biotechnology methods (laboratory experience with molecular biology techniques)

Check if you fulfil the academic requirements

Advance assessment Denmark

Make a self-assessment

What is a self-assessment?

If there is no advance assessment available for your bachelor’s degree, you can make a so-called self-assessment of your educational background.

If there is an advance assessment of your bachelor degree showing that you are missing certain academic areas to fulfil the academic requirements, you can also use the self-assessment to show how you fulfil the missing academic areas.

Your self-assessment is not binding for us, but it can help you prepare your application and give us a better overview of your educational background.

How to make a self-assessment

Start by listing all the undergraduate courses you have taken, or are going to take, as part of your bachelor's degree or in addition to it, and compare them to the programme's academic requirements.

Read your course titles and descriptions carefully. Try to categorise the courses according to the master programme’s academic requirements.

Use the self-assessment form

We have created a form you can use for your self-assessment. The form is a tool to help you match your courses with the academic entry requirements for the programme and see to what extent you fulfil them.

Remember to include

Courses you have already passed
Courses you are currently taking
Courses you expect to pass (e.g. supplementary courses at summer university)

Download and save the self-assessment form here.

Chance of admission

More applicants than places

This programme has a limited number of study places.

If there are more qualified applicants than available places, we will select the best qualified applicants. The selection is based on an overall assessment of the applicants’ educational background at bachelor’s level.

Selection criteria

In the selection of qualified applicants, we look at

Grade level
The academic content of your bachelor degree
Personal statement

Personal statement

The personal statement is your opportunity to describe yourself in relation to the master programme you are applying for.

You can, for example, describe:

Your experience from work, studies, leisure activities or similar
How your experience relates to the programme
How the programme relates to your future career ambitions

Requirements for the personal statement

Maximum 2 A4 pages
Minimum font size 11
In English

Connection to the Danish Labour Market

Your connection to the Danish labour market will be taken into consideration as part of the selection process. In your application, you will be asked to write a paragraph of no more than 500 characters (including spaces), describing your current circumstances and reflecting on your future career opportunities in Denmark.

Enrolment to second year

If you have already passed, or will have passed by study start, graduate level courses that correspond to the first year of the MSc in Business Administration and Bioentrepreneurship, you may apply for enrolment in the second year of the programme at the same time as you apply for ordinary enrolment.

How to apply

You apply for enrolment in the second year of the programme by:

submitting your application via the Application Portal
uploading the special application form (PDF)
uploading the required additional documentation

Please note that you must fulfil certain conditions to be eligible – though not guaranteed – for enrolment in the second year:

all ordinary entry requirements, including the language requirement, must be fulfilled by the application deadline. See the entry requirements above.
courses that correspond to the first year of the programme must be passed by study start (see further information below)

First year courses

To enter direct into the programme’s second year you must altogether have passed min. 60 ECTS-points at graduate level by study start:

You must have passed:

min. 45 ECTS-points at graduate level within Biotechnology, and
min 15 ECTS at graduate level within IPR (intellectual Property rights), biology, systems biology, sustainable biotechnology, molecular biology, molecular medicine, biochemistry, biomedicine, technical biomedicine, chemistry and technology, medicine and technology, human biology, nanotechnology, nanoscience, odontology, veterinary medicine, pharmacy, project management, data science or scientific writing.

Apply for admission

Read more about the application process, documentation and application deadlines

Admission and application

See you in February 2027

Are you considering a master programme at CBS? Then come to our next Open Day and learn more about your options.

Master events

See upcoming events that can help you with your study choice and admission.

Event

Open day for master programmes 2027

Date:

4 February 2027

Location:

Solbjerg Plads 3, 2000 Frederiksberg

Are you considering a master programme at CBS? Come visit us for Open Day and hear what your options are. Here you can meet students and staff, pose your…

View event

Admission in numbers

Study places

Applicants - 1st priority

245

Foreign students

87%

Gender distribution – men / women

28% / 72%

Average age

25.3 years

Career

Competencies

As a graduate in bioentrepreneurship you will learn skills valuable for starting up your own company and be able to handle a broad range of tasks in life-science companies that develop and launch new products and services.

Graduates build careers where they help translate science into impact — whether by growing biotech businesses, evaluating innovation, or shaping the future of life science industries.

Bioentrepreneurs are the link between life-science and business.

Competence profile

In the competence profile you can read more about the purpose of the programme and the competencies you achieve in the programme:

See the the competence profile for Msc BIO

What do you learn on MSc BIO?

Translating science into business

You learn how to take scientific discoveries like research findings, patents, or biotech innovations, and turn them into viable business opportunities. This includes understanding how to assess commercial potential, develop business models, and plan for market entry.

Working across disciplines

You develop the ability to communicate and collaborate across scientific and business fields. By studying alongside students with different academic backgrounds, and through interdisciplinary projects, you gain strong teamwork, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills. industries.

Navigating the life science ecosystem

You gain practical insight into how the life science industry works . From regulation and intellectual property to funding and market strategy. With case-based teaching, you learn how to navigate the full innovation process in biotech and pharma sectors.

Career opportunities

Graduates work in various industries such as:

Biotech and Pharmaceutical Industry
Medtech and Digital Health
Life Science Startups and Scaleups
Consulting and Advisory Services

Typical job tasks for a graduate:

Entrepreneur
Business delevelopment manager
Strategy Manager
Market access analyst
R&D Manager
IPR Manager
Consultant
Project Manager

Career stories

“If you enjoy thinking about science but see yourself more at the commercial interface than in the lab, this programme is a great fit. It teaches you to translate complex science into real business and societal impact.” Johann
Co-Founder and CEO

Year of graudation: 2023
From: Zwingenberg, Germany
Age: 29
Job: Co-Founder and CEO of BioHalo ApS

What would I say to a student considering this programme?

If you enjoy thinking about science but see yourself more at the commercial interface than in the lab, this programme is a great fit. It teaches you to translate complex science into real business and societal impact. You also meet people who are similarly curious about innovation, which makes the whole experience both inspiring and very motivating.

Which competences from my studies do I use in my job?

As a biotech founder, I use both the scientific mindset and the business toolkit I developed during my studies. I work on bringing a product from idea to market and scaling it responsibly. At the same time, I identify customers, build partnerships, and convince investors of the commercial potential, drawing directly on courses in strategy and entrepreneurship.

Was there anything from my studies that directly opened doors for me?

Yes. I was fortunate to conduct my master’s thesis in Boston, one of the world’s most vibrant biotech ecosystems, supported by CBS and the Novo Nordisk Foundation. That exposure to the US biotech scene, its networks and way of working, definitely opened doors and broadened my career options. It showed me what is possible in biotech entrepreneurship and helped me build confidence to start my own company.

How has my career developed since I graduated?

My education gave me the confidence to explore different roles in biotech space. I started out in business development and gradually moved closer to entrepreneurship. Today, I am co‑founder of a biotech startup, working at the intersection of biology/chemistry and business.

What was the most important thing I brought with me from my studies when job searching?

The programme is deliberately designed so you can focus on a demanding, high‑quality business education and still manage a working student position alongside it. That structure gave me the time and headspace to take a role in a biotech startup while studying. Working in industry during my degree was incredibly valuable: it tested whether this way of working suited me, built my confidence as an entrepreneurial person, and showed employers that I was already used to the pace and culture of biotech.

If I could give myself one piece of advice before starting my career, it would be…

Get hands‑on experience early, ideally as a working student in a startup if you are curious about entrepreneurship. It helps you see if this career path is right for you and makes it easier to find a job later. At the same time, explore the opportunities CBS and KU offer, master’s theses in industry and courses you take simply out of curiosity. I once joined a KU course on innovation in the automotive industry and still use insights from it in biotech. Be open‑minded and tap into the many options the Danish education system gives you.

More about MSc in Business Administration and Bioentrepreneurship

About the programme

Understand what the programme is all about and why it may be the right one for you.

Structure

See the programme structure and your options along the way to shape your own academic profile and the highlighted aspects.

Study environment

Meet the students and learn more about the teaching and exams.

Entry requirements

Check the entry requirements for the programme and your chance of admission.

Career

See the skills and the type of job you will get.

Other master programmes

Curious about similar study programmes? You may find other study programmes that also match your interests and dreams for your career.

About MSc in Business Administration and Bioentrepreneurship

Why study MSc BIO?

Bridge sci­ence and busi­ness

Work with real com­pan­ies

Learn to turn ideas into im­pact

Connect science and business

Collaboration between leading universities

Experience the life science industry from within

Innovation at the core

See you in Feb­ru­ary 2027

Mas­ter events

Open day for mas­ter pro­grammes 2027

Structure

Economics and mathematics

Innovation and entrepreneurship

3 things to con­sider

Are you ready to work across dis­cip­lines?

You want to help bring sci­ence into the real world?

Are you in­ter­ested in work­ing closely with in­dustry?

Pro­gramme over­view

1st semester

Courses at DTU

2nd semester

Courses at DTU

3rd semester

Finance and Accounting in Bio-Business

Bio-Markets

Innovation Strategy in BioBusiness

Bioentrepreneurship

4th semester

Master's Thesis

More about the pro­gramme pro­gres­sion

Study­ing in Eng­lish

Year 1: Bio­logy and bi­o­tech­no­logy

Year 2: Busi­ness and bioin­nov­a­tion at CBS

Fourth semester: Mas­ter's thes­is

Op­tions dur­ing the pro­gramme

First year

Second year

Man­dat­ory courses on your third semester

Mas­ter's thes­is

Study environment

Small cohort

Different backgrounds

Student life at CBS

For internationals

Meet the students

Amalie

Why did I choose my programme (and CBS)?

What do I like the best?

How do I experience the difference in academic level between my bachelor and master programme?

What are the biggest challenges in my programme?

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…

Aaron

Why did I choose my programme (and CBS)?

What do I like the best?

How do I experience the difference in academic level between my bachelor and master programme?

What are the biggest challenges in my study programme?

What would I have liked to have known before starting my programme?

What do I want to do after finishing my programme?

If I could give myself a piece of advice, before starting it would be…

For in­ter­na­tion­als

Teach­ing and ex­ams

Teaching

Exams

Stu­dent life at CBS

Time con­sump­tion

Workload

Hectic around exams

Student job

Studying in Denmark - for internationals

In need of spe­cial sup­port?

Entry requirements

Entry re­quire­ments

1. Bach­el­or de­gree

2. Lan­guage re­quire­ment

3. Aca­dem­ic re­quire­ments

1. Bach­el­or de­gree

Bridge science and business

Work with real companies

Learn to turn ideas into impact

See you in February 2027

Master events

Open day for master programmes 2027

3 things to consider

Are you ready to work across disciplines?

You want to help bring science into the real world?

Are you interested in working closely with industry?

Programme overview

More about the programme progression

Studying in English

Year 1: Biology and biotechnology

Year 2: Business and bioinnovation at CBS

Fourth semester: Master's thesis

Options during the programme

Mandatory courses on your third semester

Master's thesis

For internationals

Teaching and exams

Student life at CBS

Time consumption

In need of special support?

Entry requirements

1. Bachelor degree

2. Language requirement

3. Academic requirements

1. Bachelor degree

2. Language requirement

Find your country

International Baccalaureate (IB)

European Baccalaureate (EB)

Austria

Australia

Belgium (French part)

Bulgaria

Croatia

Czech Republic

England, Wales, Northern Ireland

Estonia

Finland

Germany