Program Overview

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Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences

The Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences at the University of Bern offers a diverse and exciting curriculum in a personal and welcoming atmosphere. The program is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the Earth's systems, processes, and phenomena. It provides a comprehensive education in geology, covering various aspects of the field, including mineralogy, petrology, sedimentology, geophysics, geochemistry, and more.

Program Structure

• The Bachelor's program in Earth Sciences is offered as a mono-major (180 ECTS) or a major (120 ECTS) that can be combined with a minor (60, 30, or 15 ECTS) from another field.
• The program duration is 6 semesters, with the language of instruction being German.
• The program starts in the fall semester.

Study Content

The curriculum includes a wide range of courses, such as lectures, practicals, seminars, excursions, and fieldwork, providing students with a solid foundation in Earth Sciences. Students learn to observe, analyze, and solve problems using analytical methods. The program covers various topics, including:

• Mineralogy
• Petrology
• Sedimentology
• Geophysics
• Geochemistry
• Structural Geology/Tectonics
• Hydrogeology
• Quaternary Geology
• Climate Science

Research Areas

The Institute of Geology at the University of Bern has several research groups, including:

Exogenic Geology

Studies erosion, transport, and deposition processes, as well as the influence of climate and tectonic forces on the landscape.

Isotopic Geology

Investigates geological questions using isotopic ratios, such as the age of the Earth, processes in the Earth's interior, and climate change.

Mineralogy

Focuses on the crystal structure, properties, and technical applications of minerals, particularly silicate minerals with large cavities (zeolites).

Petrology

Examines the formation, composition, and properties of rocks, as well as the processes that shape the Earth's crust.

Quaternary and Paleoclimatology

Explores changes in the Earth's climate over the past 2.5 million years, including the role of humans as a geological factor.

Tectonics

Investigates the movement of continental plates, the resulting deformation of rocks, and the formation of mountain ranges.

Environmental Geochemistry

Studies the interactions between minerals and fluids, which determine the fate of nutrients, pollutants, and greenhouse gases in the environment.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Earth Sciences program at the University of Bern have diverse and exciting career opportunities. They can work in research and teaching, industry, environmental protection, natural resource management, and more. The program's practical orientation and collaboration with external partners provide students with a strong foundation for their future careers.

Admission Requirements

• General admission requirements apply.
• Applicants with a Swiss maturity certificate or a recognized international diploma can apply.
• Additional information on admission and registration can be obtained from the University's admission office.

Semester Dates and Deadlines

• Current semester dates and lecture periods are available on the University's website.
• Registration deadlines for new and continuing students are specified.
• Deadlines for exam registrations and cancellations are also provided.

Examination Regulations

• Examination dates and registrations are managed through the University's online system.
• Cancellation of exam registrations is possible up to 14 days before the exam date.
• Failure to attend an exam without a valid reason results in a grade of 1.

Contact for Study Coordination

For questions and inquiries, students can contact the study coordination office, providing their student ID number.

Conclusion

The Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences at the University of Bern offers a comprehensive and engaging education in geology, preparing students for a wide range of career opportunities in research, industry, and environmental protection. With its strong focus on practical skills and collaboration with external partners, the program provides students with a solid foundation for their future careers.