Overview The Master of Science in Ecology at the University of Bremen is an English‑taught, research-focused programme aimed at international students who already possess a strong background in biology, ecology or a closely related discipline. Coursework and practical training cover both field and laboratory approaches, including animal behaviour analysis, conservation biology, mathematical modelling, advanced statistics, and modern genetic methods.
Teaching format and special features The curriculum is interdisciplinary and built around hands-on research. It includes individual research training and scientific projects, integrated skills courses, supporting online materials, and a one‑to‑one mentoring scheme to guide your development. The programme delivers a broad foundation in contemporary ecological theory and methods while allowing you to specialise in subdisciplines such as plant and fungal ecology, evolutionary ecology, soil ecology, population ecology, molecular ecology and environmental risk assessment.
Skills and outcomes You will receive thorough training in designing ecological studies and performing their statistical analyses, together with a strong emphasis on general scientific competencies that go beyond conventional MSc standards. Methodological instruction spans experimental and observational techniques applicable in both field and laboratory settings, and the programme’s close integration of subdisciplines makes it straightforward to follow individualized study tracks with different emphases.
Requirements (concise)
This two-year, four-semester MSc programme provides a solid foundation in ecological theory and methods while allowing you to specialise in areas that match your research interests. In the first semester you cover core ecological concepts and practical skills including Experimental Design and Data Analysis, Scientific Writing, Molecular Ecology, and an Introduction to Current Topics in Ecology. Population Ecology is a required course in the second semester, after which you choose elective modules to deepen expertise in fields such as Behavioural Ecology, Soil and Ecosystem Ecology, Vegetation Ecology and Conservation Biology, Ecophysiology, or Marine Ecology.
Hands-on experience and independent research are central to the curriculum. Practical training and fieldwork (including excursions) teach laboratory and field methods, species and habitat identification, and applied ecosystem investigation. The programme also incorporates a research project and training in preparing grant proposals to develop your ability to design and fund research. There is an opportunity to study at a partner university abroad, typically during the third semester, and the fourth semester is dedicated to the MSc thesis, which can be completed at the home institution or a partner university depending on your interests.
Teaching combines lectures, seminars, practicals and supported independent study to develop both theoretical knowledge and research skills. Lectures deliver methodological and instrumental skills and are complemented by preparatory and follow-up reading. Seminars focus on autonomous scientific work, critical use of literature, and oral and written communication of complex issues. Assisted self-tutoring gives personalised support as you work through problems and draft solutions. Overall learning outcomes include the ability to design and analyse ecological experiments, communicate scientific results, conduct laboratory and field investigations, and pursue independent research leading to a master’s thesis.
Requirements / Key components
Eligibility and academic background
You must hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in biology, ecology, environmental science or a closely related discipline. Alternatively, applicants who have earned 135 CP (credit points) and expect to complete their Bachelor’s degree before the Master’s programme begins are also eligible to apply. From your prior studies, at least 3 CP must come from coursework in ecology.
Application documents and personal profile
Your application should demonstrate both your academic preparation and your motivation for advanced study in ecology. Submit a CV, your Bachelor’s diploma (or, if you have not yet graduated, a current transcript of records), a letter of motivation, and proof of English language proficiency. Beyond formal qualifications, we value genuine enthusiasm for ecology, a solid grasp of basic ecological concepts, and a willingness to learn and apply modern statistical methods.
Required items (bullet list)
Winter Semester (International)
30 April 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
30 April 2026
Graduates are prepared for research-focused careers in academia (e.g. PhD positions and research assistant roles) as well as applied positions in conservation organisations, environmental consultancies, governmental and regulatory agencies, and NGOs. The strong methodological training in experimental design, statistics and molecular tools also suits roles in environmental monitoring, risk assessment and biodiversity management.
The programme's combination of practical field and lab skills, scientific writing and grant-proposal training additionally supports careers in science communication, project coordination and industry roles that require rigorous data analysis and evidence-based decision-making.