Study Biology in Spain
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Erudera's Complete Guide To Studying Biology in Spain
Spain is an excellent study abroad destination, regardless of your field of study. It provides world-class education, a multicultural study environment, and state-of-the-art facilities. Students are introduced to everything they need to create a successful career. Spanish universities grant highly and internationally renowned qualifications, but this is not the only thing attracting international students here. There are plenty of reasons students see Spain as their go-to destination, including the great outdoors, language learning opportunities, and so much more.
Here’s everything you need to know about studying biology in Spain:
Reasons to Study Biology in Spain
Biotechnology Job Market
Spain is a powerful region when it comes to biotechnology and R&D efforts, according to an ASEBIO report. In fact, Spain is home to approximately 3,000 biotechnological companies (mainly dedicated to the pharmaceutical industry and the food sector).
World-Renowned Universities
Some of the top worldwide universities are located in Spain. E.g., the University of Barcelona, Autonomous University of Madrid, Autonomous University of Barcelona, and the Complutense University of Madrid are among the best for the study of biology.
Fascinating Outdoors
The Spanish outdoors is simply fascinating. Whether you’d like to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach, go water-skiing, swimming, sailing, scuba diving, or even hiking or biking, Spain offers all that and more. There’s simply so much you can explore!
Comprehensive Study Programs
Biology degree programs in Spain are efficient and comprehensive because they provide a well-rounded education, both in the practical and theoretical aspects of learning. As a result, biology graduates can enter the job market with excellent skills and knowledge.
Multi-Cultural Community
You will be part of a wonderful student community during your studies in Spain. You will learn about world cultures, different perspectives and create valuable friendships with people from in and out of Spain. A beautiful and diverse environment awaits!
Spain is Fun
Spaniards are lovely and welcoming people, and their culture is simply one of a kind. Rich in art and history, there is simply so much to learn by merely being in Spain. Besides, having the chance to practice Spanish first-hand is an invaluable opportunity.
Top Universities to Study Biology in Spain
Some of the top universities to study biological sciences in Spain are:
- University of Barcelona
- Autonomous University of Madrid
- Autonomous University of Barcelona
- Complutense University of Madrid
- Pompeu Fabra University
- University of Valencia
- University of Salamanca
- University of Santiago de Compostela
- University of Granada
- University of Navarra
Faculties of biology at each of these universities provide a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These faculties are highly prepared to provide students with the training and knowledge necessary to succeed. Spain has over 75 universities, all of which are committed to the pursuit of excellence, which means regardless of your choice of university, you are likely to receive a quality education.
Requirements
Students who wish to pursue their biology degree in Spain have to fulfill a few academic requirements.
- If you’re from outside of the EU: You need to have your academic qualifications validated by the Ministry of Education of the Spanish government or the Spanish embassy in your home country. The process is also known as ‘homologación.’ You will also need to apply for a student visa upon university admission. In turn, the Spanish visa authorities will ask that you provide proof of financial stability and health insurance.
- If you’re from within the EU/EEA or China: You do not need to have your previous qualifications validated by Spanish authorities. Instead, you simply need to meet the university-specific requirements as listed on each university’s respective website.
Depending on the program’s language of instruction, you will also be asked to provide proof of language proficiency. This can be done through examinations like IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs and DELE or SIELE for Spanish-taught programs.
The ideal applicant profile for biology programs depends on the university; however, you usually need to have successfully undertaken studies in science and technology, particularly biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
Application Process
To apply to a biology degree program in Spain, you must submit a set of academic and supporting documents to prove your eligibility.
Some of the university application documents in Spain include:
- Academic documents:
- High school certificate (for undergraduate programs).
- High school grade transcripts (for undergraduate programs)
- Bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate programs).
- Bachelor’s degree grade transcripts (for postgraduate programs).
- IELTS or TOEFL (or other) test scores for English-taught programs.
- Proof of Spanish language proficiency.
- Supporting documents:
- Copy of passport/ID.
- Passport-format photographs.
- Statement of purpose.
- Letters of recommendation.
Remember: Typically, universities ask that application documents be translated into English or Spanish.
Degree Duration: How Long Does It Take to Study Biology in Spain?
A bachelor’s degree in biology in Spain takes around four years to complete for students who are enrolled in full-time programs. Programs usually focus on subjects like biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, botany, microbiology, zoology, etc. Master’s programs typically take one year of full-time study to complete. Students enrolled in part-time master’s programs will take longer to complete their degrees. A doctoral degree, on the other hand, comprises a training period of one year, followed by three years of full-time research.
Tuition Fees: How Much Does It Cost to Study Biology in Spain?
Public universities in Spain charge lower tuition fees compared to private universities. However, the cost of studying at a public university is relatively low, especially compared to other popular study abroad destinations. The cost of a bachelor’s degree can range from €720 to €1,800 per year. Master’s degrees may cost up to €2,700 per year for national students. Non-EU students, however, are usually charged slightly higher tuition fees. For example, the yearly tuition for a master’s program in biology at the University of Barcelona is almost twice as much as the tuition fees for Spanish residents.
Biology Career Prospects in Spain
Biology graduates tend to enjoy rather rewarding careers, regardless of their chosen career path. Possible job titles include biologist, research scientist, pharmacologist, ecologist, biotechnologist, or roles in forensic science or the government, to name a few. The salary range for biologists in Spain is anywhere from €3,000 to €8,500 per month, depending on the professional experience. For example, a research scientist in Spain earns an average salary of €37,500 per year, while pharmacologists can earn up to €5,620 per month in Spain, with significant professional experience.
