Aquatic Science and Technology

The MSc in Aquatic Science and Technology at the Technical University of Denmark is a comprehensive and research-intensive program designed to prepare students for advanced careers in the sustainable development and management of aquatic resources. This program combines fundamental scientific principles with innovative technological solutions, equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to address complex challenges in marine and freshwater environments. Throughout the program, students will engage in multidisciplinary coursework covering areas such as oceanography, marine biology, environmental chemistry, hydraulic engineering, and aquatic technology. Emphasizing practical applications and experimental research, the curriculum includes laboratory work, field studies, and project-based assignments that foster hands-on experience and critical thinking. Students will have opportunities to collaborate with industry partners, participate in cutting-edge research projects, and contribute to sustainable solutions for aquatic ecosystems. The program aims to develop professionals capable of designing, implementing, and managing technological solutions for aquaculture, fisheries, marine pollution control, and resource management. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, consulting firms, governmental agencies, and private sectors focused on aquatic environmental issues. The MSc degree opens pathways for further specialization or doctoral studies, supporting the advancement of scientific understanding and technological innovation in aquatic sciences. With its strong emphasis on sustainability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and real-world applications, the Aquatic Science and Technology program at DTU offers a unique opportunity for students passionate about protecting and utilizing our vital aquatic resources responsibly and efficiently. Graduates leave with not only a solid foundation in scientific theory but also the practical skills required to implement sustainable solutions in a rapidly changing aquatic environment.

The MSc in Aquatic Science and Technology is a 2-year graduate program, consisting in total of 120 ECT credit points. The 120 ECTs are divided between mandatory courses giving general interdisciplinary competences common for all students, technological specialization and elective courses, that can be directed towards one of our three optional study lines, and a thesis project.

In Aquatic Science and Technology you can choose to follow a study line in:

• Aquaculture
• Fisheries 
• Oceanography

The MSc in Aquatic Science and Technology will give the graduates a common basis of interdisciplinary knowledge, skills and competences, as well as in-depth academic and technological competences in their selected field. Our ambition is to educate engineers who will be able to make a substantial contribution for solving the global challenges related to aquatic environments, and the structure of the education is designed to fill this ambition.

Only applicants holding either a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, a Bachelor in Engineering or a Bachelor of Natural Science degree can be admitted to a Master of Science in Engineering programme. From September 2017 the bachelor degree must be less than 10 years old.

The individual MSc Eng programme states in detail which bachelor programmes qualify and whether applicants have to complete supplementary educational activities.

Requirements for supplementary educational activities can equate to up to 30 ECTS credits and are specified in the form of a list of courses under the individual MSc Eng programmes.

The specific requirements must be met before graduating from the bachelor programme or in connection with conditional admission to a particular MSc Eng programme. The courses must be passed prior to the commencement of studies within one year from the conditional admission.

Supplementary educational activities in connection with conditional admission to an MSc Eng programme do not form part of the MSc Eng programme, and partial tuition fees are charged. If the supplementary courses have not been passed within the deadlines specified, the conditional admission to the programme is withdrawn.

The Master of Science in Engineering programmes are offered in English. Therefore applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English (B-level, IELTS, TOEFL- or Pearson test).

Academic requirements for this programme

The following bachelor programmes entitles students to the MSc Eng programme in Aquatic Science and Technology:

DTU bachelor and engineering programmes:

• Biotechnology
• Chemistry and Technology
• Civil Engineering
• Earth and Space Physics and Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• General Engineering
• Human Life Science Engineering
• Quantitative Biology and Disease Modelling

DTU bachelor of engineering programmes:

• Arctic Technology
• Chemistry and Biotechnology
• Civil engineering

Other Danish bachelor degrees:

• University of Copenhagen: Bsc in Biology, Biology-Biotechnology, Geography and Geoinformatics, Natural Resources, Geology-Geoscience, Geophysics, Meteorology
• University of Aarhus: Bsc in Biology, Geoscience; B Eng in Biotechnology
• University of Aalborg: Bsc in Biology, Biotechnology, Environmental Technology, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Sustainable Biotechnology; B Eng in Chemistry and Biotechnology
• University of Southern Denmark: Bsc in Biology, Environment and Resource Management; B Eng in Chemistry and Biotechnology
• University of Roskilde: Bsc in Natural Science
• University of the Faroe Islands: Bsc in Biology

Candidates with other bachelor degrees (both Danish and foreign) are welcome to apply provided their BSc study contains the necessary prerequisite knowledge for MSc study. The evaluation of applications emphasizes courses in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics and environmental engineering / sciences.It is recommended that the students use some of their electives to obtain knowledge related to some aspect of aquatic ecology, production or management, e.g., aquaculture, fisheries, aquatic ecosystem management or oceanography.

The Financial Aspects of the Aquatic Science and Technology program at the Technical University of Denmark encompass various elements designed to support students throughout their studies. The program fee structure varies depending on the student’s nationality, with EU/EEA students often benefiting from the same fee waiver policies as Danish citizens, while non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition fees. The tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students are set at approximately €15,000 to €20,000 per year, covering the overall duration of the program. Danish students and citizens from the EU/EEA typically do not pay tuition fees due to the policies of the Danish government and the university’s commitment to accessible education.

Students pursuing the Aquatic Science and Technology program may explore various funding options, including government scholarships, university grants, and external scholarships from private foundations. The Danish government provides a range of scholarships for international students, which can significantly reduce financial burdens. Additionally, the university offers merit-based scholarships and financial aid packages to outstanding students, aiming to promote academic excellence and diversity within the student body.

Part-time work opportunities are available for enrolled students, although working hours may be limited by visa regulations for international students. Students are encouraged to seek part-time employment within the university or in nearby industries related to their field of study, such as marine technology, fisheries management, or environmental consultancy. Earnings from part-time work can help offset living costs, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials. The cost of living in Denmark is relatively high; thus, careful budgeting and financial planning are essential for students.

Moreover, students are advised to consider student loans or financial support schemes available through their home countries, especially for international students requiring additional financial resources. The university’s career services also provide guidance on funding opportunities and financial planning to ensure students can focus on their academic pursuits without undue financial stress. Overall, while the cost of education and living expenses in Denmark can be substantial, various financial assistance options are available to support students in successfully completing the Aquatic Science and Technology program at the Technical University of Denmark.

The Master’s degree program in Aquatic Science and Technology at the Technical University of Denmark is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of aquatic environments and the technologies used to monitor, manage, and protect these vital systems. This interdisciplinary program combines principles from marine biology, environmental science, engineering, and technology, aiming to prepare graduates for careers in research, consultancy, environmental management, and industry sectors related to water resources. Throughout the program, students gain hands-on experience through laboratory work, field studies, and project-based learning, fostering practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. The curriculum covers various topics such as aquatic ecology, oceanography, water quality analysis, aquatic resource management, and innovations in aquatic technology. Students also learn about the impact of human activities on aquatic ecosystems and explore sustainable solutions for water management challenges. Collaboration with industry partners and research institutions is a hallmark of the program, offering students opportunities for internships and collaborative projects that enhance employability and real-world problem-solving skills. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to contribute to the development of sustainable solutions for aquatic environments worldwide, addressing issues like pollution control, habitat conservation, and sustainable fisheries. The program emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and technological innovation in tackling complex aquatic issues, aligning with Denmark's leadership in maritime and environmental technology sectors. The university's state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories provide an excellent environment for research and practical training. The program typically spans two years and includes coursework, research projects, and a master’s thesis. Graduates are awarded a Master of Science (MSc) in Aquatic Science and Technology, which qualifies them for advanced positions in academia, industry, and government agencies dedicated to aquatic and environmental sciences. Overall, the Master’s program aims to produce experts capable of addressing the global challenges related to aquatic environments through scientific research, technological development, and sustainable management practices.