Ecology, Evolution and Conservation | Master

Program Content

This research-oriented master’s degree program focuses on organismic biology, meaning “entire” organisms, their reciprocal interactions, and their relationship to the abiotic environment. A broad array of module courses range from the theoretical foundations of ecology and evolution to their application in such fields as sustainability research or species conservation. The courses within a module (lectures, seminars, tutorials, internships) cover the entire spectrum from aquatic and plant ecology, to animal ecology and biodiversity research, to molecular and organismic evolutionary biology, to scientific nature conservation. Your education will focus on learning the current state of knowledge in the various fields of specialization, as well as a broad spectrum of methodologies in the laboratory, in field studies, and computer-supported modeling. Small learning groups enable early and individualized contact to our broadly skilled instructors.

Program Objective and Future Fields of Work

The objective of this master's degree program is to teach you how to think as a scientist and to help you master the latest methods in ecology, evolutionary research, and nature conservation. Furthermore, you will acquire the scientific foundations that will enable you to recognize both correlations and mechanisms of action, and to apply them in interdisciplinary ways.

The degree program offers ideal preparation for the professional world, or for the continuation of your academic education with a doctoral degree. The master’s degree in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation qualifies you for independent work in academic research, in national and international agencies and administrative institutions, in companies and organizations in the field of applied ecology, including in planning offices or environmental associations, or as a freelancer.

Prerequisites for Master's Studies

Applying for a master’s degree generally requires you to hold an undergraduate degree, such as a bachelor’s degree. Your first degree should be in mathematics, biosciences or natural sciences, or in a scientifically oriented subject in environmental, agricultural, forestry or geosciences. You must have English language skills at least at the B2 level and German language skills at least at the A2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

You can read more about the subject-specific admission requirements in the respective Admission Regulations.

Program Structure

In the four-semester master’s program, you earn a total of 120 credit points, consisting of the following modules and your master’s thesis. Building on the foundation of two mandatory modules (see below), we offer elective modules in a wide range of subjects that can be selected according to your individual interests. Our graduates are therefore able to complete very specialized degrees, for example in aquatic ecology, terrestrial plant ecology, or molecular evolutionary biology. As needed, students can add strategically meaningful modules from the Faculty of Science, for example from the geosciences or bioinformatics.

For additional information, please consult the subject-specific Degree Regulations or the Departmental Advisory Office.