Geosciences (earth sciences) study the Earth’s system on the basis of scientific methods.
The master’s degree course “Earth Sciences” teaches students subject-related skills, by using findings from geosciences, ecology and other natural sciences to convey fundamental knowledge and practice-related competencies.
The course aims to train students to master the contents and methods of the subject area and to enable them to cope with the geoscientific, ecological and economic tasks within the framework of international conventions and in the context of increasing globalisation.
In order to be able to achieve these goals, students gain
- in-depth scientific knowledge into the field of the focal point they chose,
- skills for applying the content they have learned,
- competence in combining ground-based practice with analytical laboratory methods,
- awareness for process sequences across geological periods,
- skills for developing strategies for sustainable use of natural environments,
- ability to carry out individual scientific work and communicate the results found.
The combination of various core and supplementary modules allows the student to specialise in one of the named fields. The subject spectrum that extends beyond the boundaries of geosciences, also provides the student with the possibility of fitting his/her profile to suit the changing international job market. Promoting the mobility of the students is an important part of the degree course. The master’s degree course should encourage students to think conceptually and work scientifically, promote the ability to critically judge scientific findings and lead to responsible actions.
Concept / areas of focus
The master’s degree is research-oriented and aims to teach both skills for independent scientific work for a later doctorate, as well as extended subject knowledge for scientific activities in the areas of industry, commerce, administration, research and teaching. A longer period of study abroad is highly recommended and can be integrated into the curriculum, depending on the choice of modules.
The courses can be taught in German and in English. Modules with English names are taught in English. The focal point Georesources and the Environment is taught completely in English.
Further specifications:
- modular structure with personal specialisation
- targeted teaching of geological knowledge and practical skills
- acquisition of “key skills” (e.g. independent work, presentation of results, etc.) for later career
- classes taught primarily in English
- study offer which is specific to Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, unique combination in Germany
- internationally recognised professional qualification
Due to the interdisciplinary approach to the degree, there are three topic-related focal points on offer, one of which you must choose:
- Geology
- Georesources and the Environment
- Quatenary Science
Students who choose classic Geology as their focal point, will look mainly at geodynamics, palaeo-oceanography, palaeontology and sedimentology. Students who choose the focal point Georesources and Environment, which is taught solely in English, will look at hydrogeology, economic geology, aquatic geochemistry, clay mineralogy and mathematical geology. And finally, Quatenary Science focuses on quatenary geology, physical geography, quaternary palaeontology and landscape ecology.
Structure and Components of the Degree
The master’s degree consolidates the initial training gained in an undergraduate degree in natural sciences - for example a bachelor’s in Geology. It is made up of modules (core modules, compulsory modules, supplementary modules, and, if applicable, compulsory elective modules) which can be chosen from a list for the winter semester and summer semester (see below).
The number of modules depends on the focal point (Geology, Georesources and the Environment, Quaternary Sciences) and semester.
In addition to the core and supplementary modules, the so-called “Personal Profile Module” is part of the degree. Following a consultation with a subject advisor, this compulsory module consists of a course which is chosen to serve the development of the personal profile.
A further compulsory module is “Literature Discussion and Dissertation Proposal”. In this module, students start to approach the topic of their future master’s dissertation, by searching through literature on the topic and developing a plan for the project, which they then present to other students and the lecturer(s).
Furthermore, the list of supplementary modules includes a “Mobility Module”, which can be chosen up to three times with 8 ECTS each and can be selected freely from a list of courses on offer at a German or international university. This makes it possible to integrate a semester abroad into your degree, without having to extend your overall length of study.
Apart from the lectures, the degree also offers a module “Geoscientific Mapping”. This is a core module for students who have selected the specialisation in Geology, but can also be chosen for the other areas of specialisation. Further practical skills are conveyed as part of the modules “Geological Working Methods” and “Palaeontological Working Methods”.
The degree ends with the Master’s Dissertation, the defence of which is open to the university public.
Graduates from this master’s degree course...
As the geosciences are distinctively interdisciplinary, they include a wide range of disciplines with high environmental relevance, such as applied geology, hydrogeology or aquatic geochemistry. Due to their interdisciplinary knowledge and cross-subject expertise, geoscientists are in demand especially for studies looking at environmental change.
Geosciences play an important role in providing our society with raw materials and energy. Geoscientists plan and effectuate projects that search for resources such as drinking water, hydrocarbons, metals and bulk raw materials (gravel, clay, lime), but also energy and geothermal resources. Geoscientists also play a vital role in the search for suitable rock formations for temporary or permanent storage of raw materials and waste products.
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