This Master's trains students to manage the complex natural-resource systems that underpin agricultural production in tropical and subtropical regions. It highlights how resources interact, how they respond to human interventions, and why effective management depends on both biophysical and socioeconomic understanding. The programme is taught in English and follows a research-oriented, multidisciplinary approach to broaden students’ knowledge of basic and applied resource management for (sub)tropical agricultural development and research.
Graduates leave with practical skills and analytical tools to identify and resolve problems in (sub)tropical resource management. The degree prepares students for leadership roles in agricultural development, for positions in agricultural and environmental research and development, and serves as a qualification for entry into PhD programmes.
The programme benefits from close collaboration with development organisations based in Bonn and with partner universities and research centres in over 40 countries. These links help students develop a holistic, cross-disciplinary view of resource structure, use, interactions, threats and protection, and create pathways to internships and employment in international development and research settings.
Program structure and learning focus
This 24‑month Master’s follows the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and combines compulsory core teaching with optional modules so you can tailor your profile. The curriculum begins with an interdisciplinary first semester that builds a broad understanding of resource structure and use in tropical and subtropical agriculture, integrating ecological, social, economic and political perspectives. Teaching is supported by practical exercises and socio‑cultural activities, and staff from international organisations in Bonn regularly contribute to lectures and seminars. Registered students also have access to internship opportunities offered by those organisations.
Specialisation, applied training and research
In semester two you deepen your expertise by selecting at least five modules from a catalogue of 20 across three elective tracks — ecosystem approaches; molecular and physiological approaches; or socio‑economic approaches to resource management — allowing you to shape a scientific profile that matches your interests. Semester three, themed “from knowledge to action”, emphasizes translating research questions into concrete activities: seminars and exercises focus on scientific communication, research planning and project management. The final semester is dedicated to the MSc thesis: you prepare and present a proposal, collect experimental data at a (sub)tropical field research site, write the thesis and defend it. A highlight of the programme is a joint visit to a conference on tropical agriculture where students can present results and expand their professional network.
Key learning outcomes and benefits
Graduates will have an interdisciplinary understanding of resource interactions in (sub)tropical agricultural systems and the ability to design and manage applied research or projects. The programme develops practical fieldwork experience, scientific communication skills, and project‑planning competencies, while elective modules let you specialise in ecosystem, molecular/physiological, or socio‑economic approaches. Networking and hands‑on internships with Bonn‑based international organisations further enhance employability and research links.
Requirements and key facts
To be eligible you must hold a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Sciences or a closely related field from a university or college, awarded with an above-average grade. Practical experience is valued: at least two years of work in agriculture is desirable but not strictly required.
Your application should demonstrate academic readiness and research interest; a short scientific proposal is part of the dossier. All applications must be submitted through the program’s online platform (see link below).
Only online applications will be considered. More information: www.arts.uni-bonn.de/application
Winter Semester (International)
15 March 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
30 June 2026
Graduates are prepared for roles in agricultural and environmental research and development, as well as for leadership positions in organisations working on sustainable resource management in tropical and subtropical regions. The programme’s mix of interdisciplinary training, field research experience and links to development organisations in Bonn also makes alumni competitive candidates for international NGOs, governmental agencies, and research institutes.
For students aiming to continue in academia, the course provides a strong research foundation and qualifies graduates to apply for PhD programmes.