Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health (Master of Science)

Overview
Conditions of admission
Applications


Overview

Course content and focus areas 

The master's degree programme "Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health"  focuses on the teaching and research of biodiversity, ecology, ecotoxicology and evolution of animals, plants and fungi in the context of global change. In addition to basic and current scientific knowledge, a multitude of skills for practical field work and laboratory work are taught. The master's degree programme is, therefore, strongly research focussed. The teaching and learning content of the curriculum includes  genetic diversity, biodiversity, nature conservation, interactions, multiple stressors, biocenoses and ecosystems.

The programme aims to create an understanding of biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics as important factors for maintaining ecosystem functions and ecosystem services for humans. Biodiversity is addressed in all its facets, from genes to species diversity, evolution and ecosystems. Ecosystem Health includes the effects of stressors such as climate change, pathogens and chemical pollution on organisms and ecosystems. Our evidence-based research advances the transformation to a sustainable society. The degree programme is closely linked to the Sustainabilty & Biodiversity profile area at Goethe University.

It is possible to concentrate on one subject area, within the degree programme. The chosen subject focus area is noted on the master's degree certificate. Possible areas of specialisation are:

  • Ecology
  • Ecotoxicology
  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Organismal diversity
  • Mycology
Detailed Information

Information from the department
Study regulations

FAQ

Degree

Master of Science in Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health 

Duration

The standard length of study for the Master of Science is 4 semesters. 

Language of instruction

English

Start of the programme

The study programme can be started in the winter semester. 

Student advisory service

Dr. Sabrina Schiwy
Biologicum
13 Max-von-LaueStreet
Wing C, 3rd Floor, Room 3.318
D-60438 Frankfurt am Main
Telephone: +49 69 798 42173
Email: schiwy@bio.uni-frankfurt.de

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Conditions of admission

Admission requirements
  • BSc or comparable degree in a bio-scientific subject
  • proof of sufficient English language skills (level B2), proven by:
    - a successfully completed Bachelor taught in English, or
    - a minimum one-year study or occupational stay in an English-speaking country within the last three years, or 
    - TOEFL test (score at least 72 points), or 
    - IELTS test (score at least 5.0), or 
    - proof of at least six years English as school subejct.
  • Letter of Motivation 
    Letter of motivation in English language (400 to 600 words) – It should contain: What is your motivation to study in Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health at Goethe-University, pratical/professional experiences, etc. More information can be found in the study regulations above.
    The motivation letter is evaluated as follows: 
    Decision on the recommendation for approval is done on the basis of the marks of the first professional degree (51%) and letter of motivation (49%). The resulting overall rating must be at least 2,5 points.
  • Applicants with an international university entrance qualification and Bachelor's degree: Good working knowledge of German (B1) is recommended for daily communication at the university (no certification needed).
Provisional admission

Provisional admission is possible if at least 80% of the required CP for the bachelor's degree have been completed and the Bachelor's dissertation has been finalised or is about to be submitted. Provisional admission is valid until the end of the first semester of the master’s program. The bachelor’s degree must thus be handed in by March 31 (winter intake) or September 30 (summer intake) the latest.

Mode of admission Admission to the programme is not restricted.


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Applications

Documents to be submitted
  • if you are not already enrolled at Universität Frankfurt:
    a university entrance qualification (e.g. A-Levels)
  • certificate of the Bachelor's degree programme
  • possible transcript of  records or equivalent document listing the content of the study programme
  • letter of motivation (400 to 600 words)
  • proof of English language skills (level B2)
  • APS certificate for applicants from India, Vietnam and China (original)
Application period

01.04. - 31.05. 

Adress for Applications Online application portal for Master’s study programmes


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