Biodiversity: Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation University of Göttingen

Courses are held in English (95%) and German (5%). Participants can choose to write their Master's theses in either language.

In this Master's programme, students acquire advanced knowledge and research practice in biodiversity, ecology, evolution, systematics and conservation biology. Moreover, students have access to a broad spectrum of modules across faculties for further scientific specialisation and qualification as well as professional practice. The broad spectrum of education in the fields of biology mentioned above enables students to develop their individual scientific profile.

Optionally, students have the possibility to pursue a double degree in the IMABEE programme at one of the partner universities: Amsterdam (NL) or Rennes I (F). The first year is spent at the home university (60 CP) whereas the second year (60 CP) is completed at one of the partner universities, including the Master's thesis (30 CP).

Academic calender and start of lecture period: https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/24440.html.

It is recommended to arrive earlier (beginning of October) for orientation week/information events.

Non-EU citizen/non-EU Bachelor’s degree holder: 15 February for the following winter semester

EU citizen/EU Bachelor's degree holder: 15 May for the following winter semester

The MSc programme in "Biodiversity: Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation" comprises four semesters. It typically follows a BSc degree in biology/biological sciences and is extremely research-orientated. A total of 120 ECTS credits must be earned as part of this modularised MSc programme. The programme takes place in an active, internationally renowned research environment. Students acquire basic subject and methodological knowledge by attending modules that include lectures, seminars and methods courses. In addition, university-wide and cross-faculty modules can be taken in order to acquire further job-related key competences. In the fourth semester, students write the Master's thesis as an independent piece of academic work. 

The MSc degree qualifies students to practice a profession or conduct research, and in particular is a prerequisite for a doctoral thesis and for working in the field of biosciences. There is a fast-track option to the faculty's consecutive PhD programmes. 

Excellent English language skills are required and must be demonstrated. Basic knowledge of German is recommended.

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• Study at partner universities (Erasmus+, Global Exchange programme)
• Internship/thesis abroad

Find more information online: https://uni-goettingen.de/de/677597.html.

No tuition fees

The fees are around 400 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket, which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as buses in Göttingen. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals and drinks are available at reduced prices at all university canteens.

The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about 750 to 850 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age.

International students should note that it is not possible to study in Germany without sufficient financing.

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Biology/Biosciences

English: Applicants who are not native English speakers or who do not hold an English degree must provide proof of proficiency in English, which may be

1. UNIcert®: minimum UNIcert® III certificate;
2. International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic): minimum band score of 7.0;
3. Test of English as a Foreign Language, internet-based test (TOEFL iBT): minimum score of 100 or minimum score of 95 and minimum speaking score of 25;
4. Cambridge English Qualification, minimum 180 points;
5. KMK foreign language certificates, minimum level C1;
6. Nulte certificates, minimum level C1;
7. PTE Academic, minimum 76 points;
8. telc English, minimum level C1;
9. Other accredited or standardised certificates may also be recognised after examination of their equivalence.

The test result must be less than six years old on the date the application is received.

Proof of advanced knowledge of the English language may also be provided by

1. at least two years of relevant study or professional experience in an English-speaking country within the last six years immediately preceding the application date, or
2. by the successful completion of at least two years of study in an English-language degree programme.

Non-EU citizen/non-EU Bachelor’s degree holder: 15 February for the following winter semester

EU citizen/EU Bachelor's degree holder: 15 May for the following winter semester

Germany scholarship ("Deutschlandstipendium"):
https://uni-goettingen.de/en/218535.html

The university supports students in finding part-time jobs in local industries and businesses. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. They are announced on the following website: www.stellenwerk-goettingen.de.

Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or visa. Non-EU students are subject to special regulations. Information on side jobs: https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/653539.html

Some proficiency in German may be indispensable to your job search.

The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.

The Career Service of the university offers individual support for the job entry. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme.

The "Start Guides" project also offers assistance in developing and realising individual career perspectives in Germany.

If you are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The university supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts. Start-up support

The International Office provides a wide range of services for international students.

German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city during their first weeks.

An orientation week for new international students provides valuable information about Göttingen and the university.

Study Buddy Programme: part of the project Integration and Diversity at Göttingen University (InDiGU)

Foyer International: meetings and activities for all students

German courses during studies (free of charge)