Ecological Management of Catchments in Europe

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The river catchment -also called river basin or watershed- has become the basic unit of planning for a future sustainable society since the Water Framework Directive (WFD) was adopted by the European Union (EU).

The aims of the WFD are to protect and enhance the status and condition of all water bodies and to ensure that water resources are used in an ecologically sound and sustainable manner. All EU member states and authorities are currently implementing, or in the process of constructing a framework to implemement the WFD for the management of water resources. Hence there is an urgent need for skilled professionals.

The European Masters programme Ecocatch will give you this expertise!

We will teach you to become acquainted with the objectives of the directive and familiar with the various environmental conditions prevailing in different parts of Europe. Most uniquely, you will learn to integrate the effects of all the different ecosystems that the water passes through on the way from the source to the sea. You will collaborate with students from different European countries, learning from each other and enjoying studying together. Part of your study will take place in a different European country, providing you with a great experience. The different institutions, participating in this European Masters programme, are specialised in different aspects of the ecological management of catchments. Using these specialities, a multidisciplinary approach is offered to give you a holistic perspective and understanding. This prepares you to serve as a future manager of water resources and other natural resources within the European community.

The Ecocatch Masters programme includes examples of applied as well as basic research.

The structure of the programme is as follows:

YEAR 1

* Introduction course, all participating teachers and students gather (2 weeks)(5 ECTS)
* Core contents, given at each university, including catchment ecology, WFD, modelling, GIS.
Specialised courses, different subjects given at the different universities.(40 ECTS)
* Project, individual or performed in groups(15 ECTS)

YEAR 2

* Thesis. The thesis may be preceded or mixed with shorter specialised courses.(60 ECTS)

You (i.e. any student) will
* understand the structure/functioning of catchment ecosystems;
* acknowledge and be able to apply the catchment continuum concept; the interactions between catchment ecosystems linked by the hydrological cycling of water;
* be able to appreciate and develop management strategies on the diversity of catchment characteristics within the EU;
* be able to evaluate human impact on ecosystems and undertake risk assessment;
* be able to develop tools for catchment management (e.g. GIS);
* be able to contribute to the implementation of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) in the member states.

The outcome of your studies will be governed by your personal choice and mix of courses although always within the catchment continuum concept and the approach of your final thesis project. However, each student must do at least 30 ECTS abroad. This can be achieved through core courses, specialized courses, a project or by thesis.

* A good Bachelor/1st degree in Science or Engineering in one of the following areas: biology, ecology, earth sciences, environmental sciences, aquatic science, chemistry. * A demonstrated language proficiency in English.Other candidates will be considered after evaluation on an individual basis. Additional requirements may be applied at the different universities.The programme is open to students from outside the EU. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 5.5