Master of Science in Geophysics University of Münster

Courses are taught in English. The Master's thesis can be written in either English or German.

The Master’s programme in Geophysics at the University of Münster is research-oriented and spans two years. It covers theoretical and applied concepts with an emphasis on the following fields:

• Seismology
• Geodynamics
• Applied Geophysics

Students benefit from small classes, a supportive learning environment, and close interaction with leading scientists in their fields.

Unlike many other Master's programmes in Earth sciences and related fields, a strong focus lies on quantitative methods, techniques and theories deeply rooted in physics and mathematics. Therefore, a solid background in both fields is required.

For the winter semester: beginning of May to 15 September
For the summer semester: middle of November to 15 March

During the first year, students receive in-depth training in Seismology, Applied Geophysics, and Geodynamics. In addition, they select additional courses from a large choice of physics, geoscience, and interdisciplinary topics. 

The second year is devoted to an independent research project carried out in one of the department's research groups under the supervision of leading scientists in their respective fields. The project is split into two parts: the module "Professional Specialisation and Project Design" in the third semester and the Master's thesis in the fourth semester.

No tuition fees

Students must pay a semester contribution fee of approx. 330 EUR per semester. This includes a "semester ticket" covering public transportation in the greater Münster area as well as all of Germany.

You can find more information here:
https://www.uni-muenster.de/studieninteressierte/en/einschreibung/semesterbeitrag.shtml.

We recommend that students budget at least 1,000 EUR per month to meet personal expenses (accommodation, living, health insurance).

You can find more information here:
https://www.uni-muenster.de/international/en/studierende/general-information/cost-and-funding.html.

A Bachelor's degree in geophysics, physics, mathematically oriented geosciences, or a closely related subject with a minimum grade of "C" according to ECTS

Credit points in an amount comparable to the Bachelor’s programme in geophysics offered at the University of Münster in the following fields: geophysics, physics and mathematics

Candidates must provide proof of English language skills at a B2 level (CEFR) or equivalent.

For the winter semester: beginning of May to 15 September
For the summer semester: middle of November to 15 March

No

For second-year students, several jobs as teaching assistants for Bachelor's courses or mentors to junior Bachelor's students are available. German language skills are required for teaching assistants. Small paid internships may be available. In addition, there is usually a large number of job offers for students in Münster.

As in all popular university cities in Germany, accommodation is in high demand and is not easy to find in Münster – but it’s not impossible either!

Please contact the International Office (Bachelor's and Master's students) or the CERes (doctoral candidates) of the university for advice. Please also note that the University of Münster (like most German public universities) does not have its own student halls of residence.

With about 42,500 students and 5,000 academics, the University of Münster is one of the largest universities in Germany. It enjoys an outstanding reputation in the region and far beyond for its excellent research opportunities, high-quality teaching and promotion of junior researchers. Fifteen faculties with more than 120 subjects, over 280 degree programmes and some 30 research centres comprise the institutional backbone of the University. Besides its academic opportunities, the University of Münster offers a wide and varied range of extracurricular activities. Follow your interests in the student societies, the university theatre, the choirs, orchestras or bands, the sports courses, and visit the university’s museums and gardens.

Münster is located in north-west Germany, close to the border with the Netherlands. The city is a lively student town, famous for its bicycle-friendly atmosphere and student pubs. Of Münster's total population of approx. 322,000 inhabitants, over 61,000 are students at the different universities. Münster is a thriving centre of science and academia. It is a great place to live, learn and teach.