The master's programme Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution (M.Sc.) is designed to provide students with the theoretical and practical knowledge required for a scientific professional activity. It offers freely selectable modules from the fields of ecology, biodiversity, evolution, morphology, nature conservation, reproductive biology, behaviour, microbiology and physiology. Special emphasis is given to methodological and conceptual aspects as a prerequisite for independent scientific work.
Graduates of the M.Sc. programme in Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution have career prospects primarily in the scientific sector (universities, universities of applied sciences, research institutes), but also in other governmental (environmental authorities, water management offices, political consulting, museums, botanical and zoological gardens) and economic sectors (e.g. expert and planning offices, plant protection and food industry). A further qualification with a doctorate is possible after graduation.
The programme comprises 4 semesters, with the fourth semester reserved for the master's dissertation. The study programme includes 4 obligatory basic modules, specialist knowledge from the fields of biodiversity, ecology, evolution including nature conservation, behaviour, microbiology, physiology and morphology is taught, as well as a research internship (in preparation for the dissertation). The main part of the study programme is a freely selectable combination of ten elective modules and a facultative excursion abroad, which allows students to set their own personal focus in order to deepen the knowledge gained. With the Mobility Module (elective module), stays abroad can be easily integrated into the study programme.
The spectrum of methods integrated in the master's programme is very diverse. Knowledge will be gained in the following fields:
A bachelor's degree in biological, environmental or life sciences or closely related degrees with at least 50 % of credit points from the biological field on subjects such as zoology, botany, ecology, evolution, or physiology is required. English at level B2 (CEFR) is required. Equivalent proof: FCE, IELTS 5.0, TOEFL (PBT) 567, TOEFL (CBT) 227, TOEFL (IBT) 80, TOEIC 785) or alternatively evidence of minimum seven years of school English.
