Interdisciplinary Bioeconomy Studies

Faculty: Agriculture and Economics
Main field: Interdisciplinary Bioeconomy Studies

Master Degree studies (MA)
Full time studies - 4 semester (2 years )
Fees: the candidates are requested to pay enrolment fee of 20 EUR
Tuition fee: Students from EU and EFTA countries - 0 Euro; other countries 1200 EUR/ semester

INTERDISCIPLINARY BIOECONOMY STUDIES (MA):

The dependence of economies on non-renewable resources and the environmental problems caused by a linear approach to production and consumption pose significant challenges that affect the well-being of future generations. To address these challenges and transition towards a low- or zero-emission economy, it is imperative to re-evaluate our approach to production and resource management. Interdisciplinary Bioeconomy Studies are founded on principles of environmental stewardship and sustainable resource utilization, with a primary focus on meeting societal needs. Central to these studies is the concept of the circular bioeconomy, which advocates for replacing conventional refinery products with biorefinery alternatives. Additionally, it enables the efficient utilization of biological raw materials through a cascade approach, thereby enhancing economic efficiency and reducing environmental impact. Moreover, the circular bioeconomy plays a crucial role in strengthening food security, contributing significantly to the achievement of all Sustainable Development Goals.

The educational curriculum within the IBS program is structured around three key thematic blocks:

·         Socio-economic Context: Students delve into the contemporary economic and social landscape of the circular bioeconomy. They acquire the necessary tools to comprehend the principles governing production, industrial operations, and project execution. Emphasis is placed on fostering creative thinking, with mandatory Design Thinking workshops forming an integral part of the program.

·         Circularity Context: This segment of the curriculum familiarizes students with the various stages of material circulation within both the economy and the environment. Starting from sustainable primary production principles, students’ progress through the stages of biomass processing via biotechnological methods, culminating in the recovery of nutrients

·         In-depth Production Context: Students receive comprehensive instruction on the intricate processes, methodologies, and applications involved in converting biomass into non-food goods. This includes but is not limited to the production of bioplastics, biofuels, and cosmetics.

By providing a structured curriculum that encompasses these thematic blocks, the IBS program seeks to empower graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the bioeconomy and contribute meaningfully to its sustainable development. IBS graduates have knowledge of production processes in the bioeconomy and understand their economic context both at the level of the entire economy and the activities of individual economic entities. Depending on the profile of their competences, through the selection of optional courses, they can develop their professional paths towards consulting, designing the value chain in the bioeconomy, working for institutions implementing sustainable development policies, NGOs, as well as towards the production and processing of biological resources.