HCU’s Hydrography specialization is one of the very few hydrography programs worldwide and the only one in Germany accredited at the highest FIG/IHO/ICA standard (Category A). It is offered as a specialization within the MSc Geodesy and Geoinformatics and is taught in English. The programme runs for two years and combines academic rigour with applied skills tailored to maritime and coastal environments.
The teaching centers on acquiring, analysing, modelling and visualising data from oceans, coasts and inland waters to support safe navigation, maritime engineering, resource management and scientific research. Students learn to use modern survey technology and digital hydrographic information systems, produce nautical charts and maintain hydrographic databases — tools that contribute to safer shipping, reduced marine accidents, pollution detection, coastal zone management and ecosystem monitoring.
The two-year curriculum blends scientific and technological components across advanced geodesy, navigation, geoinformation, marine sciences and oceanography, together with data processing and software technologies. Several supervised field trainings are included to provide hands-on experience with surveying equipment and operational workflows, preparing graduates to work at the intersection of science, technology and maritime practice.
Key facts / requirements
This two-year master's track in Hydrography is structured around compulsory core modules and a range of elective courses. Several electives overlap with the broader Geodesy and Geoinformatics specialisations, so you will study both subject-specific hydrographic topics and shared foundations from geodesy and geoinformatics. The programme combines classroom-based theory with applied learning to prepare you for technical and interdisciplinary work.
A distinct element of the curriculum is the inclusion of two eligible Q‑Studies courses, which deliver transdisciplinary content drawing on the arts, social sciences and natural sciences. Practical learning is emphasised throughout: laboratory work, hands-on training and field exercises are integrated into the curriculum to consolidate theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
Expected learning outcomes include the development of subject-specific competence in hydrography within the geodesy/geoinformatics framework, the ability to integrate perspectives from multiple disciplines, and practical experience through fieldwork and exercises that translate theory into applied skills.
Key curriculum points and requirements
This program is intended for applicants with a solid academic background in hydrography, surveying, geodesy and geoinformatics, or closely related disciplines. If your prior degree was completed outside Germany, you must have it assessed and approved before applying.
Non-German university degrees require evaluation via uni-assist. Instructions on how to request the preliminary documentation and the application process are available on the uni-assist website (http://www.uni-assist.de).
Admission requirements:
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Graduates are prepared for technical and managerial roles in hydrographic surveying, nautical charting, marine GIS and coastal zone management. Typical employers include national hydrographic offices, port and shipping authorities, offshore and maritime engineering firms, environmental consultancies, and research institutions. The programme’s Category A accreditation and applied field training strengthen professional recognition for roles that require high-level hydrographic expertise.
Alumni can pursue positions such as hydrographic surveyor, marine geospatial analyst, coastal planner, offshore survey specialist or researcher in marine and environmental science. The combination of practical survey skills, data processing and software competence also supports opportunities in industry sectors involved in offshore construction, renewable energy and maritime safety.