Master's Programme in Biology – Ecosystems and Aquatic Ecology

Year 1

In the first year, you will take four courses in the following order:

Limnology (level D): The course aims to give you a broad understanding of the fundamentals of aquatic ecosystems. This course integrates the hydrology, chemistry and biogeochemical cycling of inland waters with knowledge about different organisms and biological communities. The course also includes a one-week field course at the Norr Malma field station (Erken Laboratory), where you will gain hands-on experience with aquatic ecosystems by conducting your own projects.

Applied Ecosystem Ecology: You will learn how catchments (river basins) function as natural units for managing and protecting natural resources, and gain an understanding of the interaction between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Human perturbations on both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are addressed in detail. The course includes practical training including geographical information systems (GIS). The legislation and applied water management are discussed.

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function: The course aims to deepen your understanding of ecosystems by exploring the interactions between organisms, food webs, chemical and physical conditions and biogeochemical processes in detail. This course will combine theoretical knowledge with practical training, enabling students to design, conduct and evaluate their own experiments. The focus will be on understanding the role of biodiversity in ecosystems, as well as the ecosystem characteristics that are essential for maintaining biodiversity. Additionally, there is a section relating to scientific publication, good scientific practice and research ethics.

Ecosystems in the Anthropocene: This course provides advanced knowledge on how Earth's ecosystems respond to global environmental changes, as well as the connections between environmental change, ecosystem processes and human society. Potential future scenarios are discussed, including possible ways toward sustainable socio-ecological systems. The course will also include modelling and a field study.

Year 2

During the second year of the programme, you have the option to choose additional elective courses, such as a research training course, for example, in one of the research groups in limnology or plant ecology at the Department of Ecology and Genetics.

You will conduct a Master's thesis of 30, 45 or 60 credits under the supervision of professors and researchers. We can also supervise Master's theses that are conducted with partners from outside of the University, for instance, government authorities, companies or NGOs.

Courses within the programme

Courses within the programme are listed on the Department webpage or found in the programme outline. The programme outline can be found with the programme syllabus.

Biology instruction at Uppsala University is closely integrated with ongoing research. All instructors in the Master's Programme in Biology are active scientists in their respective field, providing you with an education that stays up-to-date with the latest advances in the field.

The courses offer a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical training in the form of laboratory work and field trips, as well as the ability to solve problems, think analytically and work scientifically. Communication training is integrated into all courses of the programme.

The Master's Programme in Biology has a strong international character, and all courses are taught in English.

Specialising in ecosystems and aquatic ecology, you will be ready for various types of jobs. You can, for instance, work at a government authority dealing with nature conservation or aquatic resource management. In the private sector, you can, for instance, work at an environmental consulting agency conducting evaluations, inventories, or environmental impact assessments for different customers. You may also work at an NGO or other organisations dealing with water and natural resource management and environmental change (e.g. WWF, Fishing Associations). As a biologist, you can also become a teacher or science journalist.

There are common organisations and legislations within the EU (e.g. the water framework directive, or Natura 2000), as well as within other international collaborations within natural and water resources. Therefore, you can also explore further the international job market after graduation.

You will also be well-prepared for PhD studies and an international research career.

Regardless of the professional career you have in mind, the common base is a broad and solid understanding of different types of ecosystems.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career.