The Master's Degree in Molecular Biology aims at providing post-graduates with advanced and operational knowledge in the field of molecular biology, as well as in-depth knowledge regarding instrumental methodology, analytical instruments, and the techniques involved in data acquisition and analysis. The degree course should provide a high level of proficiency in the scientific approach to research, by providing post-graduates with the capacity to work autonomously, but potentially also allowing for the management of projects and organizations.

Starting from academic year 2020/2021 the educational offer has been modified to take into account the new expertise required by modern molecular biologists. The training offer is divided into two curricula, the first dedicated to experimental molecular biology and the second to computational biology. The two curricula share fundamental courses which represent the indispensable cultural basis for an in depth understanding of modern molecular biology but are also characterized by courses specific to each of the two curricula.

In the experimental curriculum the proposed courses provide an extensive perspective on molecular mechanisms pertaining to biochemistry, molecular and cellular biology of plants, neurobiology and epigenomics,
thus completing and enhancing previous skills provided by the L13 bachelor degree class.

In the curriculum of computational biology, the proposed courses deal with several aspects concerning the management, organization and analyses of molecular data derived from high-throughput technologies in different fields of the life sciences.

Following is a diagram summarizing the structure of the Master’s Degree in Molecular Biology. It is worth noting that, when compatible with the schedule of the semesters, the courses specific to one curriculum can be selected by students as optional choices for the other curriculum.

During the second year, approximately two thirds of the student's study commitments involve the preparation of a graduation thesis.
The latter has the objective of providing the student with a significant working experience in an experimental research laboratory, while also contributing to the students' cultural development, enhancing the capacity for critical analysis, and the competence for the management of projects and organizations.
Furthermore the Master's degree in Molecular Biology forms the necessary basis for the continuation of advanced training at the doctoral level.

The Master's Degree in Molecular Biology at the University of Padova is part of the LM-6 Biology class, it has a numerus clausus.

Starting from accademic year 2008/09, this course has replaced the preceding Degree Course (Laurea Specialistica) in Molecular Biology (D.M. 509 Regulation) according to the new D.M. 270 Regulation. Students who still need to sit exams from courses under the D.M. 509 Regulation, should make their situation known to the Educational Committee (see also Title III, art. 16 of the new Educational Regulation).

The Master's Degree in Molecular Biology is organized as a single curriculum.