Cold Regions Landscapes Integrated Sciences (CORELIS)

The research-oriented MSc programme CORELIS imparts knowledge and skills for terrestrial Arctic and Antarctic ecosystems research. Based on a solid background in geosciences, students will be prepared for a career in an interdisciplinary field of science. This includes the ability to communicate with colleagues from different disciplines and to apply a diverse suite of methods from various subject areas to terrestrial Arctic and Antarctic ecosystem-related research questions. It also includes the generation, interpretation, and combination of scientific results.
All courses of the CORELIS programme will be given in English and are in principle open for students of related MSc programmes, depending on capacities and schedule.

Educational organisation

The two-year curriculum is subdivided into five main scientific modules as well as one applied module.
During the first semester, a common foundation (research skills, geoscientific, mathematical and physical basics, functioning and variability of terrestrial Arctic and Antarctic ecosystems, principles of economic and social sciences) is established.
The second semester is designed to broaden interdisciplinary knowledge. Students are partly free to design their own individual tailor-made study plan.
In the last two semesters, in-depth knowledge is acquired.
Personalised course guidance and counselling is available throughout the studies. Participation in the orientation unit for first semester students at the beginning of October is strongly recommended.

Study abroad unit(s)

First and second semesters: St. Petersburg State University, Faculty of Geography and Geoecology
Third semester: Universität Hamburg, School of Mathematics, Informatics, and Natural Sciences
Fourth semester: optional, Universität Hamburg, School of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences or St. Petersburg State University, Faculty of Geography and Geoecology

Course objectives

A Master's degree in "Cold Regions Landscapes Integrated Sciences - CORELIS" is the basis for a subsequent career in science and research, continuing with a doctorate programme. At the same time, it qualifies for a career as Arctic and Antarctic ecosystem communicator in international organisations, global enterprises, and agencies.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills.

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree in natural sciences (or equivalent)

Enrolment fees

There is a semester fee of 310 EUR per semester. This fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the Hamburg metropolitan area.

Costs of living

We recommend that single students budget at least 800 EUR per month to meet personal expenses (accommodation, living, health insurance, books).

Job opportunities

Generally, students who enrol in a full-time programme will only have limited time for part-time jobs.
As a rule, students who hold an international student visa may work for up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Further information on work regulations for international students at Universität Hamburg can be found here: http://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta/beratung_e.html.

Funding opportunities within the university

International full-time students may apply for merit scholarships or exam grants of Universität Hamburg. For more information, please use the provided link. We also recommend contacting our colleagues in the Department of International Affairs for further guidance.
http://www.uni-hamburg.de/internationales/studieren-an-der-uhh/finanzierung-des-studiums_e.html

Arrival support

Students and researchers can find information on how to get started in Hamburg on the website of the PIASTA programme at the Universität Hamburg Department of International Affairs (http://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta_e.html) and on the website of the Hamburg Welcome Center (http://english.welcome.hamburg.de).
During the International Welcome Week organised by PIASTA, you will be able to get in touch with all the important institutions and contacts that are particularly useful for international students. See: http://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta/veranstaltungen/international-welcome-week_e.html.

Services and support for international students

The Universität Hamburg CampusCenter is the first port of call for all current and prospective students and offers information, services, and counselling. The PIASTA programme at the Universität Hamburg Department of International Affairs offers support and advice for German and international students, as well as cultural events and workshops.
For more information, refer to: http://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta and https://www.uni-hamburg.de/en/campuscenter.html.
The welcome service of the Universität Hamburg Department of International Affairs is the first contact address for international visiting researchers and others. See: http://www.uni-hamburg.de/internationales/wissenschaft/service-international_e.html.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the "Studierendenwerk" (students' services) or on the private market. The "Studierendenwerk" provides rooms in halls of residence, most of which are single rooms with shared kitchens and showers/WCs. We strongly advise students and researchers to arrange accommodation prior to arriving in Hamburg, as demand for affordable accommodation is sometimes larger than supply.
For more information on how to find accommodation and how to plan your first steps in Hamburg, please refer to: https://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta/beratung/doc/willkommen.pdf.