Program Overview

MSc Marine Biology Programme

The M.Sc. Marine Biology programme offers two study profiles: Marine Biology and International Studies in Aquatic Tropical Ecology (ISATEC). Marine Biology is strongly research-oriented, training graduates to develop hypotheses-driven research concepts and design experimental approaches to answer questions related to marine ecosystem and organism functioning, as well as potential impacts of environmental change. ISATEC has a more applied focus, addressing the sustainable use and conservation of tropical coastal ecosystems such as coral reefs and mangroves.

Programme Structure

• The programme is a 2-year full-time course with a high proportion of practical classes.
• It leads to a qualification as Master of Science (M.Sc.).
• There is a maximum of 30 study places per year.
• Teaching is in the English language.
• Training is provided in state-of-the-art methodologies by leading research teams.
• Students can specialize according to personal interests with a wide choice of specialist courses.
• Advanced courses are available in different university departments and associated research institutions.
• The programme includes field trips, excursions, or the opportunity to participate in research expeditions.
• There is flexibility to take courses at universities abroad.

Career Opportunities

Employment opportunities for Marine Biologists exist worldwide at institutions committed to research and development, in the fishing and aquaculture industry, as well as in the environmental conservation and management sector at governmental agencies or within NGOs and IGOs. Marine biologists also work at museums, zoological gardens, and aquaria. Additional employment opportunities include adjacent fields such as media (i.e., scientific journalism), eco-consulting, environmental impact assessments, and eco-tourism business. Marine biologists are also employed in the commercial and industrial sector, for instance, in "Blue Biotechnology", coastal zone management, and the sustainable use of marine resources.

Research and Academic Career

The University of Bremen and the associated research institutions offer a variety of opportunities to continue an academic career as a Ph.D. candidate. The programme's unique context, with close ties to world-class marine research institutions, sets the scene for direct links from current state of research to academic training.

Study Profiles

Marine Biology

The Marine Biology study profile is strongly research-oriented, focusing on the development of hypotheses-driven research concepts and the design of appropriate experimental approaches.

International Studies in Aquatic Tropical Ecology (ISATEC)

ISATEC has a more applied focus, addressing the sustainable use and conservation of tropical coastal ecosystems. It is a member of the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) scholarship programme "Development-Related Postgraduate Courses", offering scholarship opportunities for citizens of developing countries.