Earth System Dynamics and Evolution (M.Sc.)
The English-taught Master’s program “Earth System Dynamics and Evolution” at FAU provides an interdisciplinary understanding of Earth systems and their evolution across different timescales. The focus is on data analysis, modelling, as well as the social and political aspects of science.
Fact Sheet
- Degree
- Master of Science
- Admission
- Qualification assessment
- Duration of studies
- 4 semesters
- Teaching language
- completely in English
- Faculty
- Faculty of Sciences
- Start of degree program
- Winter semester
- Number of students
- 1-50
- Special ways to study
- Elite degree programs
- Special features
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The program is funded by the Elite Network of Bavaria (ENB) in collaboration with the University of Bayreuth.
What is the degree program about?
The new Earth System Dynamics and Evolution Master’s program at FAU prepares interdisciplinary Earth system scientists with a fundamental understanding of Earth systems, and the interconnectedness between Earth’s spheres across different timescales. Students will develop an advanced understanding of diverse data sources representing Earth and life through geological time, alongside strong competencies in modelling and statistics, research design, and project management. In addition, the program raises awareness to the social and geopolitical dimensions of science, and includes explicit training in science policy and diplomacy. Graduates will be able to reflect critically on the role of science in society, the interface between research and decision-making, and the ethical implications of scientific practice. Find out more via the program website.
The program takes place over 2 years and is made up of 4 semesters. During the first 3 semesters (year 1 and half of year 2), students take regular courses. The final (4th) semester is dedicated to the Masters thesis. These regular courses include interdisciplinary core modules, discipline-specific foundational courses and more advanced elective courses, that include advanced data analytical, modelling, laboratory or field courses. Further details available via the program website.
- Atmosphere
- Biosphere
- Geosphere
- Hydrosphere
- Earth system data science
- Science diplomacy
Students are trained to tackle problems at the interface between interacting Earth system spheres and across different time scales.
- An interest in Earth and life systems
- An interest in the social and geopolitical dimensions of science
- Motivation to purse interdisciplinary projects
The program benefits from established Earth systems research and networks at FAU.
- The Department of Geography and Geosciences at FAU has a strong track record in applying analytical approaches to research problems across different timescales.
- The GZN has two focal areas – climate, geodynamics and evolution, and sustainable systems and materials – both highly relevant to the Elite program, with expertise in modeling of the biosphere, geosphere and hydrosphere.
- The Institute of Geography is experienced in physical climatology, hosting one of the largest glacier-related research groups in Germany. Of particular relevance is expertise in remote sensing of the atmosphere and high-resolution climate modeling, especially over short and recent timescales.
- Researchers at the Centre for Ecology and Environmental Research at the University of Bayreuth (BayCEER) have expertise in many aspects of ecology, including ecological modeling, and will contribute key modules within the biosphere, complementing FAU’s biosphere team.
- Expertise in diplomacy comes from FAU’s Chair of Science, Technology and Gender Studies.
Skills acquired as part of this program will equip students for a range of professional roles, including interdisciplinary research positions and doctorates. Other areas include: data science roles, including environmental data science; conservation, environmental and sustainability consultancy; science communication; or science policy and science diplomacy positions.
Admission Requirements and Application
The following information is intended for German applicants as well as domestic applicants with foreign educational qualifications. Different regulations and deadlines may apply to international prospective students.
Admission
- Master: Qualification assessment
Application deadline
- Winter semester: 15.07.
- Summer semester: not possible
Language skills
- Proof of English language skills at least at level B2 (CEFR)
- German language skills for international applicants: No DSH, English (level B2, CEFR)
Content related master requirements
ABMPO/Nat-Fak is the degree awarded for the bachelor’s program in geosciences at FAU. Related degrees within the meaning of Section 35 (1) sentence 1 no. 1 ABMPO/NatFak, degrees in natural sciences or technical courses with a geoscience or ecological component, including individual subject specializations in the field of geosciences or other subjects related to Earth systems, are recognized with a minimum of 120 ECTS credits.
Details and notes
Admission to the Elite Master’s program is generally only granted after successful completion of the qualification assessment interview. Applicants are invited to the qualification assessment interview whose grade in their first degree according to paragraph 1 or whose average grade to date is at least 2.5 (satisfactory) and whose letter of application according to paragraph 3 no. 3 sentence 3 has been graded at least 2.0 (= good).
The following additional documents must be submitted:
- Proof of English language proficiency at least at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, unless the applicant has obtained either a university entrance qualification or a first degree in English that grants access to the elite master’s program.
- Tabular curriculum vitae and, if applicable, further evidence of relevant professional activities or internships, as well as, in particular, evidence of basic knowledge of programming or data analysis that is relevant to the topics of the master’s program, as supplementary information to provide guidance for the qualification assessment interview.
- A letter of application in English in which the applicant explains their motivation and qualifications in relation to the desired elite master’s program.
