Biological Resources MSc

Overview This English-taught MSc programme prepares you to address the pressing challenge of finite natural resources by deepening your knowledge of soil, plant, animal and marine resources and training you to identify sustainable, value-adding uses for them. You will learn to assess biological resources not only for their economic potential but also with attention to ecological limits and social impacts, equipping you to contribute to a growing bio-based economy.

What you will study and gain The curriculum blends advanced natural-science subjects with interdisciplinary coursework in engineering and socio-economics, so you develop both technical expertise and the critical perspective needed to evaluate future resource options scientifically. The programme emphasises real-world applications—examples include developing bioenergy, biopackaging, bioplastics and novel food sources. Close research collaboration with companies in the Lower Rhine region provides opportunities to gain practical, industry-relevant experience during your studies.

Requirements and practical info

• Language of instruction: English
• Degree awarded: Master of Science (MSc)
• Core focus areas: soil, plant, animal and marine resources; natural sciences integrated with engineering and socio-economic topics
• Practical experience: collaboration and applied research projects with companies in the Lower Rhine region
• For exact entry criteria (academic prerequisites, language certificates, application deadlines, tuition/fees, visa information), consult the university’s official admissions information for international applicants.

Overview of curriculum approach

The programme emphasizes hands-on, interactive learning to build practical expertise. Core components include applied research projects, organised excursions, laboratory sessions and fieldwork. These learning formats are designed to complement classroom study with real-world practice—giving you frequent opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to live research problems and environmental settings.

Key learning outcomes

Through this practical emphasis you will develop advanced research skills, for example conducting ecological field surveys and collecting environmental data, as well as laboratory techniques for analysing the components of plant-based biological resources. The curriculum aims to make you confident in designing and carrying out experiments, processing and interpreting empirical data, and communicating results from both field and lab studies—preparing you for further academic research or technical roles in environmental science and related sectors.

Requirements (what’s expected from students)

• Active participation in applied research projects
• Attendance and engagement on excursions and fieldwork sessions
• Involvement in laboratory practicals for analysis of plant-based biological materials
• Willingness to work in both field and lab environments and collaborate on team-based research tasks

Graduates are prepared for roles across the growing bioeconomy, including R&D and product development in biobased industries (bioenergy, bioplastics, biopackaging, novel foods), resource management, and sustainability consultancy. The programme’s mix of natural-science expertise and interdisciplinary training (engineering, socio-economics) also suits positions in policy, environmental assessment, corporate sustainability units, and NGOs. Additionally, the research orientation and practical industry links provide a solid foundation for pursuing PhD studies or entrepreneurial ventures in biotechnology and sustainable resource use.