Experimental Geosciences (MSc) University of Bayreuth

A complete study programme in English is possible. Not all selective subjects are taught in English.

The MSc programme in Experimental Geosciences pursues training and research in one of the central areas in Earth Sciences: the characterisation of physical and chemical properties of Earth materials to advance the understanding of processes in and properties of the solid Earth. Through the approach based on earth materials, the programme in Experimental Geosciences encompasses a number of traditional scientific fields: mineralogy, crystallography, geochemistry, geochronology and cosmochemistry as well as geophysics. Only by integrating these diverse subfields in one study programme and research effort can one advance the understanding of the solid Earth.

The MSc programme in Experimental Geosciences is centred on the expertise of the Bayerisches Geoinstitut (Bavarian Geoinstitute, BGI). The BGI is a central research facility at the University of Bayreuth and one of the leading institutes in research and training in experimental geochemistry and geophysics worldwide. The institute is also involved in cosmochemistry, planetary and materials science research.

In the MSc programme, students are integrated into small research groups at BGI right from the beginning. They work on independent projects under the close and personal supervision of experienced scientists. The laboratory-based work is supplemented by lectures as well as literature and research seminars.

Application periods are

• 1 March to 15 June for admission to the winter semester
• 1 September to 15 December for admission to the summer semester

The programme is organised in four major module areas and encompasses a total of 120 ECTS credit points (CP). The module areas are:

A. Experimental Methods (20 CP)

B. Research Techniques, including three one-semester long research projects with research reports (57 CP)

C. Optional/elective courses (11 CP) in any of the following subjects:

• The solid Earth
• Solid state physics
• Material sciences and catalysis
• Information technology
• Environmental geochemistry

D. Master's thesis (26 CP) with presentation of work in Institute Seminar (6 CP) in the final semester of the curriculum. After completion of the Master's thesis, the study programme concludes with an oral exam.

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No tuition fees

In Bayreuth, students do not have to pay any tuition fees.

They pay a semester contribution. It covers your contributions to student services and the student government. Attending the University of Bayreuth (which combines the campus in Bayreuth and our Faculty VII located in Kulmbach) includes a "semester ticket" that allows you to use public transportation in the region. The semester contribution is 163.04 EUR per semester.

The costs of living in Germany, e.g. living, food, clothing, and activities, are about average compared to other European countries. The city of Bayreuth, compared to other large German cities (Munich, Berlin, Hamburg), offers a uniquely attractive combination: low cost of living, affordable housing, and a high quality of life. This makes Bayreuth especially appealing to students, young professionals and families. Whether it's outdoor sports in the nearby Fichtelgebirge, cultural highlights like the world-famous Festival, or the rich culinary scene – the city offers a rich variety of experiences right at your doorstep. 

Bayreuth combines affordability with vibrancy – making it easy to study, live and enjoy life to the fullest.

Here is an example: https://www.gamechanger-campus.de/en/cost-of-living.

A Bachelor of Science (BSc) or equivalent in a natural science or a related engineering field is required, with at least a grade of good (2.5 in the German grading system).

For an application, the following material must be submitted:

• Official BSc (or equivalent) degree certificate
• Official transcript of BSc studies with a list of courses taken and grades obtained
• If the BSc will be obtained only between the application date and the start of the MSc studies, an official certificate of the classes attended and the grades obtained must be provided. The BSc certificate must be presented when registering for the programme.
• Demonstration that during the applicant's study course work in physics/geophysics and in chemistry/geochemistry has been performed, each with a minimum of 8 credit points
• CV in tabulated form
• Evidence of strong command of English (details see below)
• Statement explaining your interest in studying "Experimental Geosciences", not to exceed two pages (12pt font, in English)
• Contact information for a former supervisor: Your former supervisor should be available to send a letter of reference on your behalf to the university

Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency by one of the following:

• A language test equivalent to at least the level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages
• Complete BSc studies in English
• A BSc thesis completed in English
• High School studies in English

Application periods are

• 1 March to 15 June for admission to the winter semester
• 1 September to 15 December for admission to the summer semester

Scholarships for international students: International students and doctoral researchers have the opportunity to apply for a study grant at the International Office. Limited funding from the State of Bavaria and the DAAD is available for this purpose. The application deadline for the winter semester is 31 August and for the summer semester 28 February. All grants can be awarded for up to two semesters.

Unfortunately, first-semester students cannot be funded, i.e. applications cannot be submitted until the second semester of study for funding starting in the third semester of study. Above all, academic achievements from the previous semester are decisive for the evaluation of the application.

There are many ways for international students to earn money while they study, but there are some restrictions. For more detailed information, please visit the DAAD website.

The University of Bayreuth’s Career Services team provides a central interface between student and professional life. The team offers guidance and support to students of all subjects with regard to starting their careers.

Accommodation for students
Bayreuth and Kulmbach have a number of student dormitories (both private dormitories and dormitories offered by the Association for Student Affairs) and a vast array of private rooms available. Under no circumstances should you assume that you will be assigned a room in the student dormitories! You will need to actively search for a room on your own – either in a private dormitory or on the private market.

More information regarding accommodation for students is available here: https://www.gamechanger-campus.de/en/accommodation. Please also read the DAAD’s information.

Accommodation for international guests
All other international guests are requested to register via the Welcome Services Database (WelSe).

Accommodation for short visits
For short visits, we recommend searching for accommodation on Airbnb. In addition, a limited number of apartments are available in the Alexander von Humboldt Guest House.

For in between: youth hostels

If you can not find a long-term accommodation from the start, you could look for a living space at the youth hostels directly next to our campus.

https://www.jugendherberge.de/en/youth-hostels/bayreuth/