Master in Ecology

Master's Programme in Ecology

The Master’s Programme in Ecology gives you a deeper knowledge of how fishing, forestry, river regulations, pollution and climate changes affect biodiversity and ecosystem function in forests, lakes, mountains and sea. You learn how to identify and characterize ecological problems and plan and execute research and analysis. The programme has a special profile in nature conservation.

As a master's student in ecology at Umeå, you will develop your skills for individual integration and application of knowledge. You also develop the ability to handle complex phenomena, problems and situations, as a preparation for research practice or other jobs that have high demands of self-dependence.

Profile in nature conservation

For the first course, you can choose between Forest Ecology or Aquatic Ecosystems Ecology and Aquatic Ecosystems. You will also study Ecological Dynamics or Molecular Ecology and Evolution, and Analyses of Field Data. The programme has a special profile in nature conservation. This profile includes courses in the field of environmental science focusing on relevant legislation, and management of different habitats and species, which could be important in dealing with nature conservation issues in authorities and companies.

Close proximity to research

The education is closely linked to the research conducted at the Department of Ecology and Environmental Science. Most of the practical exercises have their focus on northern ecosystems. The education received the highest ratings in the latest evaluation by the Swedish Higher Education Authority.

Choose your thesis project

In addition to the above-mentioned courses, you will choose between a number of different ecological courses at the advanced level and up to 30 ECTS in other subjects. For example, in earth science, natural geography and environmental health protection. There are also courses in geographical information systems and geoecology. You can also choose to take a project course of 7,5 or 15 ECTS in close proximity to a research group or other functions outside the university.

A mix of theory and practice

The programme combines theoretical studies of ecology with practical work. Lectures are mixed with group work, laboratory work, seminars, excursions and independent project work, including the planning of field and laboratory exercises. During the second year, you will complete your thesis comprising of 30 or 60 ECTS.

Develop critical and independent thinking

The programme gives you the skills to identify and characterize ecological problems, plan and execute investigations and determine and study biological material. You will also learn how to analyse data statistically and how to present and interpret the results in a report. The programme provides an understanding of the advanced ecological theory necessary to execute and evaluate both research and nature preservation measures.

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Umeå University was founded in 1965 and is Sweden's fifth oldest university. Today, we have a strong international and multicultural presence with students, teachers and researchers from all over the world. As one of the leading comprehensive universities in the nation, we are alive with enthusiasm, creativity and fresh ideas.

We constantly strive towards being one of Scandinavia and Europe's best environments for education , research and community engagement that meets the challenges of an ever-increasing global society.