Master Environmental Sciences
The Master’s program in Environmental Sciences provides an advanced education in the field of environmental science. Its curriculum spans from fundamental ecosystem-level relationships and current issues of ecological change to technical and socio‑economic strategies for the preservation, adaptation, and restoration of a healthy environment. Central to the program is the guiding principle of sustainability in the management of the environment and natural resources.
As part of their application, students select one of the five following majors and can further shape their study focus through individual elective modules and a mandatory internship.
Five majors
Choose one of the five majors as your focus. You can also customise your studies to suit your personal needs with elective modules and a compulsory internship.
Climate Change Ecology
This major examines the effects of climate change on terrestrial ecosystems on a local, regional and global scale.
Sustainability Assessment and Transformation
You will gain expert knowledge of state-of-the-art sustainability assessment tools.
Environmental Modelling and Data Sciences
A broad spectrum of computer-based skills is taught in order to tackle complex research and application challenges.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
The aim is to understand the ecology and conservation biology of wildlife and biodiversity, with a focus on terrestrial ecosystems.
Landnutzung und Naturschutz (in German)
This major teaches various approaches from the natural and social sciences in order to understand and evaluate the use and protection of nature and the landscape in all their complexity. The language is mostly German.
Online Info Session
Join online to receive information and to get answers to all your MSc Environmental Science Programme application questions.
Thursday 9th April at 2pm CEST
Application
We are delighted that you are interested in the M.Sc. in Environmental Sciences. The programme is divided into three majors to enable you to focus your studies and prepare you for your professional career.
Curriculum
The programme overview shows you a scheduled 2-year course for all majors offered. The Master of Science comprises 120 credits. The language of instruction is English for the four majors: Climate Change Ecology, Environmental Modelling and Data Sciences, Sustainability Assessment and Transformation as well as for Wildlife and Biodiversity.
Structure
The Master’s programme is divided into the following areas:
- Core modules: A total of 3 modules covering the fundamentals
- Major modules: 10 modules focusing on the specialisation
- Electives: 3 modules for individualisation
- Internship: 7 weeks of practical experience in an external organisation (chosen by the student)
- Master’s thesis: Working on a topic using scientific methods
- Study Abroad (optional): It is possible to spend a semester or an internship abroad.
Career prospects
Successful completion of the Master’s programme qualifies you for both an academic career in research and management positions in industry, public administration, and national and international organisations with environmental responsibilities.
MSc Environmental Sciences
University Freiburg
Infos for current students
Information on semester plans, module overviews and guidelines can be found in the Ilias folder (only accessible to students). If you have any questions about examinations, certificates and examination registration, please contact the Examination Office directly.
Scholarship advice
The most important topics covered in the consultation include selecting a funding that suits individual needs and preparing a promising application.
Service Center Studium
The Service Center Studium – International Admissions and Services (IAS) can assist you with the following questions: application, admission and enrolment, re-registration, leave of absence, change of study program
Campus Tour
Throughout its history, the University of Freiburg has grown alongside the city. It is therefore not surprising that it extends across the entire city of Freiburg.