Master Earth Sciences

The Master’s degree programme in Earth Sciences at the University of Freiburg provides in-depth scientific education combined with practical training. The programme follows a multidisciplinary approach, integrating analytical methods, laboratory experiments, fieldwork, data analysis, numerical simulations, case studies, and teamwork.

Students shape their individual academic profile by selecting one of two majors: Earth and Planetary Sciences or Environmental Earth Sciences, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and professional goals.

Graduates of the Master’s programme are qualified for a broad range of career paths, including positions in environmental consulting firms, geological and raw materials companies, Earth remote sensing, civil engineering, research institutes, governmental organizations, space agencies, and educational institutions. The programme also provides an excellent foundation for pursuing a doctoral degree.

Major

Environmental Earth Science


The Environmental Earth Science major takes a hands-on approach to tackling natural and human-made environmental challenges. Grounded in natural sciences, it emphasizes the practical application of geoscience and environmental science principles to explore how chemical, physical and biological interact within the critical zone – the dynamic layer where Earth’s surface, water, air, and life converge. This interdisciplinary training equips graduates with the skills to pursue diverse careers, including environmental consulting, government agencies, analytics, and risk management.

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Sonne mit neun Planeten in der Umlaufbahn

Major

Earth and Planetary Science


The Earth and Planetary Science major explores our home planet within the broader context of the Solar System. The program integrates core geoscience disciplines with planetary science to deepen understanding of the physical and chemical processes that shape planetary interiors, surfaces, and atmospheres. By placing Earth’s processes in a planetary context, students gain a clearer and more comprehensive perspective on fundamental geoscientific concepts. This comparative approach further strengthens the foundations needed to study global challenges such as climate change, natural hazards, and the sustainable use of Earth’s resources.

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Online Info Session

Register and join online to receive information and to get answers to all your questions regarding the programme.

Monday, 20th April at 10 am CEST

Application

For the academic year 2026/2027 the lectures start on October, 19th.

Requirements

In order to know if you are eligible to apply for this programme, please check the PDF-file (abridged english version).

The complete binding regulations (“Auswahlsatzung”) are available in german only. Please see section “Statutes”:
Service Center Studium

Online Application

The online application portal opens March, 1st:
https://campus.uni-freiburg.de/

Dates and Deadlines

Deadline for all applicants (national and international): May, 15th. Start of lectures: October.

Fees and Scholarships

Please visit the following websites for further information.
Tuition fees (all students)
Study-fees (International students)
Excursions
Scholarships

Curriculum Master Environmental Earth Sciences

Structure of the programme

The Master’s programme in Earth Sciences is a two-year degree (four semesters) with a total workload of 120 ECTS credits. It combines a shared foundation with the opportunity for focused specialisation. All students complete three joint compulsory modules, as well as field excursions and research seminars that strengthen practical and research-oriented skills. Within each major, students take seven compulsory modules and select additional electives from a broad range of modules offered in the programme and in the Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources. Modules are offered as intensive block sessions or distributed across the semester. The programme concludes with a Master’s thesis conducted within the chosen major. The language of instruction is English.

Excursions

Earth Sciences aren’t just learned in the lecture hall – they need to be experienced in the field. Our excursions give you the chance to apply the theoretical knowledge from lectures and explore the Earth as a dynamic system up close.

Information for Earth Science students

Welcome! Here you’ll find important documents to help you get started with your Earth Sciences studies in Freiburg. We also provide the latest module handbooks and semester schedules to keep you on track. The section is regularly updated, so be sure to check back for new information.


News

Get in Touch

Need more information or have specific questions? Please contact us via email. We’re happy to set up an individual consultation.

Service Center Studium

For application, admission and enrolment, re-registration, leave of absence, please contact the Registration Office.

Why study here?

The University of Freiburg has grown together with the city throughout its history. So it‘s not surprising that it extends over the whole city of Freiburg.

Contact

Dr. Heike Ulmer

Academic Advisory

Alexandra Wicke

Programme Coordination