Program Overview

Program Overview

The Arctic Ecosystems course provides extended knowledge of processes across arctic and subarctic terrestrial ecosystems. It offers understanding of how ecosystem processes are regulated by abiotic and biotic factors, such as nutrient availability, the arctic climate, and plant-soil-organism interactions. Particular focus is placed on potential impacts of changes in climate on ecosystem processes and on feedback mechanisms from arctic ecosystems to the climate system.

Course Structure

• The course is divided into two modules:
  • Module 1: Theoretical part, 7.5 ECTS credits. This part consists of lectures, seminars, and excursions to provide in-depth knowledge and understanding of ecological processes in arctic and subarctic terrestrial environments.
  • Module 2: Project work, 7.5 ECTS credits. This part consists of an extended experimental study of abiotic and biotic processes in an arctic-subarctic terrestrial ecosystem to provide hands-on experience in arctic ecological research.

Eligibility and Selection

• Eligibility: 120 ECTS credits including 60 ECTS in Biology of which 15 ECTS in Ecology or 60 ECTS earth science/physical geography and 15 ECTS in biology, or equivalent knowledge. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.
• Selection: Academic credits

Application and Tuition Fees

• Application fee: SEK 900
• Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 38,075
• Total fee: SEK 38,075

Course Details

• Type: Course, second cycle
• Study pace: Full time
• Study location: Abisko
• Type of studies: On campus
• Language: English
• Application code: UMU-50103
• Starts: 1 September 2025
• Ends: 2 November 2025
• Number of credits: 15 credits
• Teaching hours: Daytime

Department and Research Area

• The course is given by the Department of Ecology, Environment and Geoscience, with a strong connection to ongoing research at the Climate Impacts Research Centre in Abisko.