This MSc program combines theoretical and practical training in key areas of water science, with a tightly structured set of compulsory modules that build a solid foundation in chemistry, microbiology and data analysis. Core subjects focus on analytical methods, environmental and water microbiology, chemometrics/statistics and water chemistry, ensuring graduates understand both the chemical and biological processes that determine water quality. The teaching language is English, which makes the course accessible to international students.
Hands-on laboratory experience is an integral part of the curriculum: two lab courses (Environmental Microbiology and Analytical Chemistry) are embedded within the core modules. In the third semester you can opt for an additional research-oriented practical course, either extending those lab areas or exploring closely related subjects, allowing you to gain deeper experimental or project experience. Beyond the core modules, the program offers a range of elective, water-related topics so you can tailor your studies toward specific interests such as advanced instrumentation, biotechnology, process engineering or environmental health.
This structure prepares students for roles in research, water and wastewater treatment, environmental monitoring, consultancy and related industries—by combining lab skills, data analysis and specialized electives. International applicants should note the English-language delivery and the opportunity to develop a focused skill set through elective choices and the third-semester research practical.
Core (compulsory) modules
Laboratory and practical training
Elective / optional topics (examples available to shape an individual focus)
Program structure
This two-year (four-semester) Master’s curriculum is built around a 120 ECTS credit load and culminates in a 26-week Master’s thesis completed in the final semester. The programme combines taught modules, practical training and independent research, with the thesis accounting for 30 ECTS of the total credit requirement.
Practical and elective emphasis
Practical learning is an explicit part of the course: 27 ECTS are dedicated to hands-on/practical courses, while 37 ECTS are reserved for elective modules that let you tailor the degree to your interests. Detailed module descriptions and sample timetables for semesters 1–3 are published in the programme’s module guide and on the Water Science homepage (PDFs available): https://www.uni-due.de/water-science/lehre_en.php
Expected learning outcomes
Graduates will develop the ability to plan and carry out independent research projects in water science, including designing experiments or field campaigns and analysing data. The programme also builds practical laboratory and field skills, fosters interdisciplinary understanding of water systems, and strengthens scientific communication — preparing you for doctoral study, research positions, or professional roles in environmental and water management.
Key programme facts and credit breakdown
This master's programme expects applicants to have a solid, laboratory-oriented undergraduate background in the natural sciences or engineering, with coursework and hands-on training in chemical, analytical, biological and microbiological subjects. Applicants should also have completed an experimental Bachelor's thesis on a topic relevant to Water Science. Admission decisions are made by the programme’s examination committee based on the submitted documents.
International applicants should pay special attention to document requirements: non-EU applicants must supply an institutional letter of recommendation, and applicants from China, Vietnam and India are required to include an APS certificate. The fully completed application form is available from the Department of Chemistry’s Water Science pages (see link below) and must be submitted with your other materials.
Requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
15 June 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 September 2026
Graduates are prepared for laboratory, research and technical roles across the water sector, including environmental monitoring, water quality assessment, wastewater treatment engineering, membrane and process technology, and analytical service laboratories. The programme’s emphasis on advanced analytical methods, microbiology and chemometrics equips students for positions in industry, public authorities, environmental consultancies and non-governmental organisations.
The degree also provides a solid foundation for further academic research (PhD) in water science, environmental chemistry, microbiology and related disciplines, especially for students interested in experimental and analytical research careers.