Program Overview

Master's Programme in Ecology and Evolution

The Master's programme in Ecology and Evolution at VU Amsterdam is a two-year, full-time programme taught in English.

Overview

The programme focuses on the interaction between organisms and their environment at both a molecular level and a global level. Students will study ecology from a plant, animal, fungal, bacterial, and systems perspective, as well as explore ecological and evolutionary processes at a molecular level and on a regional and global scale.

Curriculum

In the first year, students will study ecology and evolution, as well as undertake their first internship. In the second year, students will choose one of the following specialisations:

• Ecology & Evolution
  • This specialisation delves into the intricacies of ecological and evolutionary processes, providing a comprehensive understanding of how organisms interact and evolve.
• International Master Biodiversity, Ecology & Evolution (IMABEE)
  • This specialisation offers a global perspective on biodiversity, ecology, and evolution, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address pressing environmental issues.
• Science Education
  • This specialisation focuses on the pedagogy of science education, enabling students to develop effective teaching methods and materials for conveying complex ecological and evolutionary concepts.

Programme Content

The programme enables students to understand and explain why the natural world looks the way it does. Students will develop the tools to solve problems caused by pollution, biodiversity loss, climate change, and other environmental issues. The programme covers topics such as:

• How organisms interact
• How species evolve and become extinct
• The use of modern molecular techniques, computer modelling, and experiments in the lab and in the field to gain an understanding of how ecosystems operate at all levels of biological organisation.

Research Areas

The programme is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes, as well as the skills to apply this knowledge in real-world contexts. Research areas include:

• Molecular ecology
• Evolutionary biology
• Ecosystem ecology
• Conservation biology
• Science education

Language and Duration

The programme is taught in English and takes two years to complete on a full-time basis.

Conclusion

The Master's programme in Ecology and Evolution at VU Amsterdam offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationships between organisms and their environment. With its strong focus on research and application, this programme is ideal for students seeking to make a meaningful contribution to science and sustainability.