From climate to natural resources - Earth Science at Uppsala University
Climate change, access to natural resources, natural hazards and the transition to more sustainable societies are some of the defining challenges of our time. Understanding the Earth is essential to addressing them.
At Uppsala University, we take on these challenges through our research-driven Master's programmes in Earth Science. From the processes shaping our planet to the resources society depends on, our programmes explore the complex interactions between the Earth, its environments and the people who live on it.
What do you want to solve?
Earth Science helps us understand and address some of the most pressing challenges facing society. Explore the areas that interest you and find a Master's programme that matches your goals.
Understand and respond to environmental change
How do climate, landscapes and water systems shape our world? Explore the processes driving environmental change and how societies can adapt to a changing future.
Research areas: Climate change
Programmes: Physical Geography, Hydrology/Hydrogeology
Secure access to natural resources
How can we use Earth's resources sustainably while meeting society's future needs? Study geological processes, natural resources and the foundations of a sustainable society.
Research areas: Climate change, Social sustainability
Programmes: Geology
Explore Earth's history to understand its future
How has life on Earth evolved over millions of years? Use evidence from the past to better understand environmental change, biodiversity and the planet's future.
Research areas: Biodiversity, The development of life
Programmes: Palaeobiology, Palaeobiology (PANGEA)
Connect with world-leading research
Many of the challenges explored in our Master's programmes are part of Uppsala University's broader research efforts. Researchers work to understand climate change, manage water resources, investigate Earth's geological history and improve our understanding of how environments and ecosystems have changed over time.
As a Master's student, you will engage with current research questions through fieldwork, data analysis and independent projects, gaining practical experience of the methods used to understand and address environmental challenges.
What to expect
Uppsala University is academically demanding. That is not a disclaimer, it is the point. You will be expected to think independently, engage with competing theoretical frameworks, work across disciplines, and grapple with problems that do not have clean solutions. The classroom at Uppsala University is not a space where information is delivered to be absorbed. It is a space where knowledge is contested, examined, and sometimes produced. Faculty expect intellectual contribution, not just participation. Knowledge here is not something you receive. It is something you create.