This cross-locational, research-oriented MSc brings together core environmental science with investigations of how environmental systems interact with societies and individuals. Taught in English, the programme emphasizes human–environment interactions and builds a strong foundation in both natural-science and socio-behavioural perspectives on complex environmental problems.
A dedicated methods component trains you to model coupled human–environment systems and to apply those models across a variety of fields—psychology, communication, economics, spatial planning and civil engineering are explicitly engaged. With these tools you learn to derive scientifically grounded courses of action and to design interdisciplinary solutions that are technically feasible, socially acceptable and practically implementable.
The curriculum combines discipline-specific basics with advanced instruction on integrating theoretical knowledge and research methods from multiple fields. Research-based learning is central: close ties to ongoing projects, applied case studies and empirical master’s theses give you continuous practice in assessing and developing responses to environmental challenges on the basis of scientific evidence.
Admission details and exact entry criteria are provided by the university; common elements to expect include:
This two-year (four-semester) interdisciplinary MSc requires 120 ECTS and culminates in a 30 ECTS Master’s thesis (including a colloquium). The curriculum combines foundational theory, methodological training, applied project work and practical experience to equip students with a systems-based understanding of environmental problems and human responses. Core courses address global environmental challenges, the structure and dynamics of human–environment systems, and the interactions between societies and ecosystems.
Method-oriented modules build quantitative and qualitative skills in inter- and transdisciplinary research, ecological and social-ecological systems modelling, and culminate in an interdisciplinary research project. Practical learning is reinforced by an eight-week internship (10 ECTS) and a dedicated Individual Studies module (8 ECTS). Elective options allow specialization across psychological, economic, communicative and urban/regional dimensions of environmental change.
Typical learning outcomes
Program requirements (concise)
Students who have completed — or are about to complete — one of the RPTU bachelor's programmes listed below are considered to have already met the application requirements. If your degree is from a different programme or institution, you must meet the additional prerequisites and provide supporting documentation (see bullets).
Please note: "CP" refers to credit points under the ECTS system. All proof of coursework and credits must be clearly shown on official documents. You must also submit official module or course descriptions (as direct links or PDF files); applications lacking these module descriptions will not be considered.
Applicants who have completed or are aiming to complete one of the following RPTU degrees are automatically deemed to fulfil the programme’s entry requirements:
If your degree is not one of the programmes listed above, you must meet the following prerequisites:
Accepted evidence:
Winter Semester (International)
15 June 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Graduates are prepared for roles that require interdisciplinary expertise in environmental challenges and human responses, such as research positions, environmental consulting, policy analysis, planning and project management in public administrations, NGOs, and international organisations. The programme’s strong methods and modelling training also supports careers in data-driven environmental assessment and applied research units.
The combined emphasis on practical internships, research projects and transferable skills makes alumni competitive for further academic study (PhD) or applied roles where scientific evidence informs decision-making on sustainability, urban and regional development, resource management and societal transformation.
Trier University of Applied Sciences — Birkenfeld
Technische Universität Braunschweig — Braunschweig
Furtwangen University — Villingen-Schwenningen
University of Siegen — Siegen