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Program Overview

The Limnology course is a 15-credit program that addresses the fundamental physical, chemical, and ecological attributes of freshwater systems, including rivers and lakes. The course is divided into two modules: Freshwater organisms and biodiversity, and Physical, chemical, and ecosystem attributes of freshwater ecosystems.

Course Description

The course provides an overview of aquatic fauna in northern rivers and lakes, illustrating how different groups can provide insight into water quality and ecosystem health. The program emphasizes practical laboratory work focused on benthic macroinvertebrate taxonomy, life history, and ecology, including how these organisms are used in biomonitoring. Additional course lectures and discussions will focus on a broader set of foundational limnological themes, including hydrological and thermal properties of lakes and rivers, geomorphological processes, and aquatic ecosystem processes.

Course Structure

The course is divided into two modules:

• Module 1: Freshwater organisms and biodiversity (5 credits)
  • Provides an overview of aquatic fauna in northern rivers and lakes
  • Emphasizes practical laboratory work focused on benthic macroinvertebrate taxonomy, life history, and ecology
• Module 2: Physical, chemical, and ecosystem attributes of freshwater ecosystems (10 credits)
  • Introduces students to a broader set of topics in limnology
  • Covers hydrology, sediment transport, and nutrient dynamics

Eligibility and Admission

To be eligible for the course, students must have:

• 60 credits in biology, including 15 credits in ecology
• 60 credits in earth science/physical geography, including 15 credits in ecology
• 60 credits in environmental science, including 15 credits in ecology
• Equivalent knowledge
• English B/6 and Swedish for basic eligibility for university studies if the education is given in Swedish

Selection and Application

The selection process is based on academic credits. The application deadline was 15 April 2025, and the application period is closed. This second application round is intended only for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.

Tuition Fees

As a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, students are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University. The application fee is SEK 900, and the tuition fee for the first installment is SEK 38,075.

Course Details

• Starts: 3 November 2025
• Ends: 18 January 2026
• Number of credits: 15 credits
• Type of studies: On site
• Study pace: 100%
• Teaching hours: Daytime
• Study location: Umeå
• Language: English
• Application code: UMU-50100

Department and University

The course is given by the Department of Ecology, Environment and Geoscience at Umeå University. The university is certified as a Healthy Campus, with many initiatives that promote health and well-being. Umeå University is also ranked #1 globally in the main categories of Living, Support, and Overall Satisfaction.