---
title: Master in Oncology, translational immunology and aging
---
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Faculty of Biomedical Sciences
New Master
# Where cutting-edge research meets real challenges to shape the future of healthcare.
Master of Science in Oncology, Translational Immunology and Aging
At Università della Svizzera italiana you'll become part of the Bios⁺ research community in Bellinzona and study in English.
You'll begin working with a research group in your first year and dedicate your second year to your Master's thesis
[Download the brochure](https://join.usi.ch/en/master-oncology-translational-immunology-and-aging#form)
- **2 years**4 semesters (120 ECTS)
- **100%**taught in English
- **30**students per class
- **300**researchers across IRB, IOR and IRT
- **75 ECTS**research experience and thesis
- **Several institutes**USI FBM, IRB, IOR and IRT are the main
Download the brochure
## Why choose MOTIA?
We tell you through the brochure
What you'll study
## Start researching in your first year
Your first year combines courses with an introduction to research in a laboratory; in the second semester, the 15 ECTS First Lab Experience gives you the chance to work with a research group, while your second year is dedicated to a 60 ECTS Master’s thesis, giving you time to explore a research question in depth.
- Courses 45 ECTS
- Research experience and thesis 75 ECTS
30151560
Sem 1Sem 2Sem 3-4 + Thesis
- 1st Semester 30 ECTS
### Build your understanding of disease
- Molecular Biology and Genetics
- Cellular Biology and Physiology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Ethics, research and society
- Nutrition, the Microbiota and Immunity
- 2nd semester 30 ects
### Bring your learning into the lab
- Clinical Oncology and Immunology
- Aging and Senescence
- Cancer Immunotherapy
- Applied Biostatistics
- Grant Writing and Effective Scientific Communication
**First Lab Experience · 15 ECTS**Join a research group and put what you’ve learned into practice during your second semester.
- 3 & 4 Semester 60 ECTS
### Explore a research question in depth
Spend your second year developing your Master’s thesis in a research laboratory at Bios⁺. There is also the possibility of carrying out your thesis at another institution or a private company.
Bios⁺ · Bellinzona, Switzerland
## Learn alongside researchers in Bellinzona.
A substantial part of MOTIA takes place at Bios⁺ in Bellinzona: IRB, IOR and IRT bring together around 300 researchers here, including PhD students from across the world. You’ll join a community working on many of the questions you’ll study.
- IRB
**Institute for Research in Biomedicine**Research into the immune system, alongside DNA repair, rare diseases, structural biology and cell biology.
- IOR
**Institute of Oncology Research**Research into how cancer develops and how it can be treated, spanning cancer biology, genomics and experimental therapies.
- IRT
**Institute for Translational Research USI-EOC**Applied biomedical research that brings different disciplines together to understand disease and improve health.
### Meet the research
Hear from them what does it mean working in immunology, oncology and aging.
> “MOTIA allows you to learn science right where science is made.”
Prof. Greta Guarda, Programme Director and Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Biomedicine
After MOTIA
## Prepare for your next step in biomedicine.
- **Biomedical research** Develop the skills to investigate disease through basic and translational research.
- **Pharma and biotech** Prepare for research opportunities in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors.
- **Clinical trials** Open pathways toward clinical research and trial management.
- **Computational biomedicine** Apply analytical and computational skills to biomedical questions.
- **A PhD and academic research** Build research experience as you prepare to continue towards a doctorate.
- **Science communication and innovation** Explore opportunities in science communication, technology transfer and entrepreneurship.
Admission
## Ready to start a new path in research?
- **A relevant Bachelor’s degree of at least 180 ECTS** You can apply with a degree from a recognised university in a field such as biology, biomedical sciences, biotechnology, biochemistry, genetics, medicine, pharmaceutical sciences, bioinformatics or a related discipline.
- **English at B2+ level** If your Bachelor’s was not entirely taught in English, you’ll need an accepted language certificate, such as IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 85 or Cambridge English First grade B. If it was entirely taught in English, provide official confirmation from your university.
- **Still completing your Bachelor’s?** You can apply before graduating. Check the [conditional admission rules](https://www.usi.ch/en/education/master/oncology/admission-application), particularly if you need a visa or plan to defend your thesis after the semester starts.
Selection is based on your academic record, university transcripts, CV and motivation letter. Meeting the entry requirements does not guarantee admission.
[Download the brochure](https://join.usi.ch/en/master-oncology-translational-immunology-and-aging#form)
### FAQ
How much are tuition fees?
Tuition fees are CHF 5,000 per semester. A reduced fee of CHF 2,000 applies to Swiss nationals and other eligible categories, including foreign nationals who were legally resident in Switzerland or Liechtenstein when they obtained their university entrance qualification.
Is the degree recognised internationally?
USI is an accredited Swiss university. Its academic qualifications are recognised abroad under international agreements, including the Lisbon Convention.
When can I apply?
Applications for the September 2027 intake open in December 2026. The deadline is 30 April 2027 for non-EU/EFTA candidates, and 30 June 2027 for Swiss and EU/EFTA candidates who do not require a visa.
**Università della Svizzera italiana**
Via Buffi 13
6900 Lugano, Svizzera
tel [+41 58 666 47 95](tel:+41586664795)
e-mail [orientamento@usi.ch](mailto:orientamento@usi.ch)
[](https://www.usi.ch/)
[© Università della Svizzera italiana](https://www.usi.ch/) [Impressum](https://join.usi.ch/impressum)
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