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Universität Leipzig
Master English Mathematics & Natural Sciences

Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution

Master of Science (M.Sc.)

About the Program

In this English-language master's degree programme, you will learn about biodiversity research, ecology and evolutionary research. In four semesters, you will become acquainted with the latest research questions using experiments, field observations and virtual experiments. The programme offers a unique combination of specialist modules for scientific consolidation and application in the field of modern biodiversity research, deeply embedded in organismic and molecular ecology and evolution of plants and animals. The combination of compulsory and elective modules guarantees important basics and opportunities to specialise. The curriculum covers evolutionary and ecological processes generating biodiversity, biodiversity change and its consequences, the role of biodiversity for ecosystem functions and services, conservation and eco-engineering, and advanced statistics and modeling. In the first and second semester, differences in knowledge between students from different backgrounds are balanced and essential basics are taught in two mandatory and four elective modules. The third semester includes an external internship to establish contacts with potential employers. A theoreticum and lab course prepare students for the master thesis in the fourth semester. The programme includes a compulsory internship module, preferably carried out abroad or at an institution outside of the university. The direct involvement of major research institutions, such as the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) and the Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv), offers opportunities to work with outstanding scientists in biodiversity and environmental research.
Show the original English text
In this English-language master's degree programme, you will learn about biodiversity research, ecology and evolutionary research. In four semesters, you will become acquainted with the latest research questions using experiments, field observations and virtual experiments. The programme offers a unique combination of specialist modules for scientific consolidation and application in the field of modern biodiversity research, deeply embedded in organismic and molecular ecology and evolution of plants and animals. The combination of compulsory and elective modules guarantees important basics and opportunities to specialise. The curriculum covers evolutionary and ecological processes generating biodiversity, biodiversity change and its consequences, the role of biodiversity for ecosystem functions and services, conservation and eco-engineering, and advanced statistics and modeling. In the first and second semester, differences in knowledge between students from different backgrounds are balanced and essential basics are taught in two mandatory and four elective modules. The third semester includes an external internship to establish contacts with potential employers. A theoreticum and lab course prepare students for the master thesis in the fourth semester. The programme includes a compulsory internship module, preferably carried out abroad or at an institution outside of the university. The direct involvement of major research institutions, such as the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) and the Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv), offers opportunities to work with outstanding scientists in biodiversity and environmental research.

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution at Universität Leipzig

Is Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution at Universität Leipzig taught in German or English?

This Master programme is taught in English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution programme cost?

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution at Universität Leipzig?

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline?

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution?

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Universität Leipzig — directly or via uni-assist?

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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