This English-taught, research-oriented Master's programme runs for two years and builds both theoretical and applied expertise in geophysics. Coursework and research concentrate on three core areas: seismology, geodynamics and applied geophysics, giving you a broad yet focused grounding in Earth‑science problems.
You will study in small classes within a supportive learning environment, allowing close contact with leading researchers and frequent interaction with academic staff. The programme places strong emphasis on hands-on research and collaboration with specialists in the field.
Compared with many other Earth‑science master's degrees, this programme stresses quantitative methods—techniques and theories that are firmly based in physics and mathematics. Because of that emphasis, applicants must already have a solid foundation in both physics and mathematics to succeed.
This two-year MSc curriculum begins with a strong foundation in core geophysical disciplines and moves quickly into independent research. In the first year students receive intensive coursework in Seismology, Applied Geophysics and Geodynamics, while also choosing from a broad selection of elective classes across physics, geosciences and interdisciplinary topics. This elective flexibility lets you tailor your technical profile to interests such as numerical modelling, field techniques or theoretical geophysics.
The second year is devoted to a research project conducted within one of the department’s research groups and supervised by senior scientists. The research component is organised in two parts: a “Professional Specialisation and Project Design” module in the third semester that prepares and frames the investigation, followed by the fourth-semester Master’s thesis in which students carry out and report their independent research.
Together the taught and research elements ensure both depth in key geophysical areas and hands-on experience in designing and executing a scientific project, under academic mentorship. For international students this structure provides opportunities to specialise through electives and to build a supervised research portfolio that demonstrates independent scientific competence.
Key modules
Learning outcomes
You are eligible to apply if you hold a relevant Bachelor's degree and meet the programme’s academic and credit requirements. Applicants should have completed an undergraduate degree in geophysics, physics, mathematically oriented geosciences, or a closely related field, with an overall grade at least at the level of "C" on the ECTS grading scale. In addition, your prior studies must include a sufficient number of ECTS credit points in geophysics, physics and mathematics — comparable to the credit distribution of the Bachelor's programme in Geophysics at the University of Münster.
If your degree or grading system differs from the ECTS/European system, prepare an official transcript and, if possible, a grade-conversion or diploma supplement. Admissions staff will assess whether your subject background and credit load are equivalent; if you are unsure whether your prior studies meet the credit requirements, contact the admissions office for guidance before applying.
Requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
15 September 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 March 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 September 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 March 2026
Graduates are prepared for research careers (including PhD programmes) as well as technical and consultancy positions in industry and government. Typical employers include geophysical and environmental consultancies, energy and natural resources companies, seismic hazard and geotechnical firms, and public research institutes.
The programme's rigorous quantitative and data-analysis training also equips students for roles in modelling, data science and instrumentation development where strong mathematical and computational skills are required.