Program Overview

Introduction to the Nordic Master's Programme in Sustainable Production and Utilization of Marine Bioresources

The Nordic Master's Programme in Sustainable Production and Utilization of Marine Bioresources (MAR-BIO) is a unique, research-based program that integrates aspects of biology, environmental and social sciences, and law for the sustainable production and utilization of marine bioresources. This interdisciplinary program is designed to address the global challenge of finding solutions for increased production of healthy food to meet the needs of a growing world population while reducing the ecological footprint and protecting natural resources and ecosystems.

Programme Description

The MAR-BIO programme is a 2-year program of 120 credits (ECTS), leading to a Degree of Master of Science with a major in Sustainable Production and Utilisation of Marine Bioresources. The program is organized by three Nordic universities: the University of Gothenburg (Sweden), Nord University (Norway), and Holar University (Iceland). Upon successful completion, students are awarded a double or multiple degree from the universities where they have studied.

Programme Structure

• The program starts with three mandatory introductory hybrid courses of 5 credits (ECTS) each, jointly taught by the three Nordic universities.
• These courses are followed by elective courses (5-30 credits, ECTS) chosen from a "smorgasbord" of relevant courses offered by the Nordic partner universities.
• A required mobility of at least 30 credits (ECTS) is fulfilled by coursework at one or more of the partner universities that is not the home university.
• The second year of the program is dedicated to an individual research project course - the master's degree project (60 credits, ECTS), which can be conducted at one of the Consortium Universities or at an associated partner from industry, authorities, or a public body.

Recommended Courses

The MAR-BIO program includes more than 50 courses across the three universities, allowing students to structure their program in a natural science profile, a social science profile, or a mix. An Individual Study Plan (ISP) is established for each student to support and guide their course choices and ensure the requirements for mobility and a degree from two or more of the Consortium Universities are met.

Courses on Offer

Courses are available at each of the three universities, covering a wide range of topics related to marine bioresources, sustainability, and environmental management. Examples include:

• University of Gothenburg: Offers courses such as "Resource efficiency - energy, material flows and ecosystem services," "Marine project - From idea to action," and "The sea and society relationship; historical perspectives, present status and future challenges."
• Hólar University: Provides courses like "Fish and Water," "Fish Reproduction," and "Topics in Aquatic Biology."
• Nord University: Includes courses such as "Scientific Communication and Research methods," "Evolutionary Genetics," and "Sustainable Aquaculture."

Admission and Tuition Fees

Admission to the MAR-BIO program follows the local admission rounds at each Consortium University, according to national and local requirements. The program applies separate admission criteria, and all applications are reviewed by the program committee. Tuition fees are charged according to the local tuition fee policy of each Consortium University, with possibilities for Erasmus stipends for the required mobility periods.

After the Education

The MAR-BIO program educates the next generation of professionals with knowledge and skills in production and utilization of marine bioresources. Graduates will have opportunities for PhD positions at the partner universities and will be well-prepared for careers within the industry, public authorities, and academia, with a strong foundation in transdisciplinary approaches to sustainable marine aquaculture and the interactions between aquaculture, fisheries, and production and utilization of marine bioresources.

Degree

The program leads to a Degree of Master of Science with a major in Sustainable Production and Utilisation of Marine Bioresources, in combination with master's degrees from one or both of the Nordic Consortium Universities. The degree is awarded upon completion of the program, which includes the mandatory courses, elective courses, mobility requirements, and the master's thesis.

Conclusion

The Nordic Master's Programme in Sustainable Production and Utilization of Marine Bioresources offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in interdisciplinary studies focused on the sustainable use of marine bioresources. With its strong research foundation, international collaboration, and comprehensive curriculum, the MAR-BIO program prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities and further academic pursuits, contributing to global efforts in sustainable development and environmental stewardship.