What will I learn?

Mathematics, physics and biology are broad fields. In BSc Nanobiology physics includes: mechanics, optics and biophysical phenomena. Biology includes: cell structures, function and development. Plus computational sciences including bioinformatics, image processing and modelling. You will also learn the mathematics, programming and lab skills necessary to fully understand nanobiology.

You will develop expertise specifically in:

  • Single molecule biology: understanding what’s happening at the molecular structure level of a cell
  • Biophysics in a nanoscale context
  • Optics and imaging with a focus on quantitative processing
  • Computational Biology: analysing and modelling fundamental cellular processes. 

The first two study years are the same for every student. Year three is built with options. 

Structure of the programme

This programme is generally perceived as tough and challenging. Approximately 25 hours per week are scheduled for lectures and practicals. And an additional 15-20 hours is expected for self-study.

In 2025-2026 NB starts a new curriculum. The new structure for BSc year one and BSc year two consists of 2 theory focus courses and one or two practical courses per quarter. Education in professional skills is integrated throughout the curriculum. Each quarter contains courses in both Erasmus MC and TU Delft. 

Approximately 50% of the contact time is in Delft and 50% in Rotterdam. The timetable is designed to avoid needing to travel between the universities on one day.

Biology & NB

You learn about the complexity of living systems at the smallest scale.

Distribution of courses NB

20% biology  
20% physics
20% mathematics
40% integrated courses

Subjects

The study consists of 7 learning objectives: 

  1. The student will have relevant, current and fundamental knowledge of mathematics, physics and biology, as well as the methods and techniques of scientific research.
  2. The student will be able to identify related concepts in biology and physics and to apply knowledge from one field of science to another.
  3. The student will be able to use the acquired knowledge to follow current scientific research in the fields of biology and biophysics intensively, in addition to understanding and interpreting this literature.
  4. The student will have demonstrable experimental research skills in the fields of molecular biology and biophysics.
  5. The student will have the required communication skills.
  6. The student will have an understanding of the ethical issues surrounding scientific research.
  7. The student will be aware of the need for lifelong learning and of the utility of creativity to the achievement of scientific progress.
     

In the first year, you will lay the foundations of your knowledge. You will take courses in evolutionary biology, advanced mathematics, calculus, linear algebra, physics, biophysics, genetics and biochemistry. You will have the opportunity to work with a computer programme that simulates biological systems, which will assist you with your research projects throughout your study. The courses emphasise the relationship between principles of health and disease. 

Courses and competencies

In the first semester of the second year, you will further expand your knowledge in mathematics, physics and biology. This and all the knowledge you gained in the first year forms the foundation of the second semester courses in year two. From this point on, you will be taking ‘integrated’ courses, which focus on different specialisations. You will explore the relationship between physics and biology through courses such as optics and microscopy, image analysis and bioinformatics, and nanotechnology.

Courses and competencies

The third year is a specialisation year. This can be completed freely by the student with the choice of a minor, various elective courses and the Bachelor End Project (BEP) where you conduct research in the laboratory.

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