This programme examines how human activity drives environmental change across local to planetary scales and explores the physical-geographical processes that shape those transformations. It trains students to understand resource limits, climate dynamics, and ecological resilience in the Anthropocene from a physical geography perspective, emphasizing how natural systems and societies interact under global change.
You will gain in-depth knowledge of current research questions and methodologies for studying human–environment systems. The curriculum covers core areas of physical geography — including biogeography, climatology, hydrology, remote sensing, sustainability science, and geoinformation — and teaches you to integrate theories, empirical findings, and modelling techniques to analyse complex socio-ecological systems.
A central aim is to develop professional scientific skills: scientific writing and presentation, critical reading of primary literature, and advanced English usage for academic contexts. Teaching and assessment combine traditional seminars and lectures with virtual learning, research-led project work, intensive research seminars, and fieldwork, so you graduate able to apply theory to practical research and decision-making challenges related to sustainable transformation.
Key topics and skills you will develop
This is a two-year Master's programme focused on the physical geography of human–environment systems. Instruction is delivered entirely in English and combines classroom teaching with computer-based learning to build both conceptual understanding and technical competence.
In the first year students follow a mix of compulsory core modules and elective courses delivered through lectures and seminars; several modules include computer-based components to develop analytical and practical skills. The second year is organised as a modular, research-oriented phase made up of flexible specialisation modules, so students can concentrate on topics that match their academic interests and career objectives.
Program requirements (summary)
You must hold a bachelor’s degree with at least 150 of 180 ECTS credits completed by the time you apply. In addition to the overall degree, the programme requires specified coursework in core subjects and proof of English language ability.
If your prior degree or credit system differs from the European ECTS, have documentation ready that shows how your credits translate to ECTS. For full details — especially about the subject-specific credit requirements — consult the official information linked below (an English translation is available).
For further details (particularly regarding the subject-specific credit requirements), see:
Winter Semester (International)
31 May 2026
Graduates are prepared for research and applied roles that require strong skills in environmental analysis, modelling and geoinformation. Typical career paths include positions in environmental and climate research institutions, GIS and remote sensing analyst roles, hydrology and ecosystem assessment, consultancy for resource management and sustainability planning, and roles in governmental or international environmental agencies and NGOs.
The programme's emphasis on quantitative methods, modelling, remote sensing and scientific communication also provides a solid foundation for pursuing a PhD or academic career. Graduates with the programme's applied skill set are competitive for technical and policy advisory roles addressing global change, resilience and sustainable transformation.