International Studies in Aquatic Tropical Ecology (ISATEC)

The International Studies in Aquatic Tropical Ecology (ISATEC) at the University of Bremen offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex ecosystems of tropical aquatic environments. This master's degree program is designed for students who are passionate about marine and freshwater ecology, conservation, and sustainable management of tropical aquatic resources. Throughout the course, students will gain in-depth knowledge of ecological principles, biodiversity, and the environmental challenges facing tropical aquatic habitats such as rivers, lakes, and coastal regions. The program emphasizes practical skills through fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and data modeling, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to the scientific community.

ISATEC combines theoretical coursework with hands-on experience in tropical ecosystems, often involving field trips and collaborative projects with international partner institutions. Students will explore topics such as ecosystem dynamics, aquatic biogeochemistry, pollution control, and the impact of climate change on tropical waters. The curriculum also covers socio-economic factors influencing aquatic resource management, promoting a holistic understanding of environmental issues in tropical regions. Instruction is provided by experienced faculty from the University of Bremen and international experts, fostering a vibrant academic environment.

Graduates of the ISATEC program will be equipped with the analytical skills, ecological knowledge, and practical experience necessary for careers in research, environmental consultancy, policy advisory, and sustainable resource management. The program encourages interdisciplinary thinking and international cooperation, preparing students to address global challenges related to tropical aquatic environments. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and conservation, this program aims to contribute to the preservation and sustainable use of aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

Educational organisation

The programme comprises two years and includes a thesis. The first two semesters consist of teaching modules composed of several one week courses. The language of instruction is English. Each module will be tested by an examination during the semester. In addition, a graded oral presentation and an essay have to be submitted by the students during the first year. During the third semester, students are required to study at one of the tropical partner institutions/universities of ZMT/Bremen University on topics related to problems of management of aquatic resources and environments, sampling strategies and field excursions, and will collect data for their Master's thesis.

Study abroad unit(s)

During the third semester, students are required to study at one of the tropical partner institutions/universities of ZMT/Bremen University.

Forms of assessment

Exams are taken during the course and are as follows:

• written tests in the modules of the first and second semester
• an oral presentation during the first semester
• a scientific essay during the second semester
• a written Master's thesis during the fourth semester
• presentation and oral defence of the Master's thesis

Course objectives

Participants in the ISATEC MSc course become experts in the field of tropical aquatic ecology and its application in the conflicting areas of utilisation and conservation of aquatic ecosystems in the tropics. They are equipped to join or lead multidisciplinary teams, to work in the investigation and management of tropical coastal zones or freshwater systems as well as to continue university studies (PhD) in the areas of aquatic ecology or integrated coastal zone management. Employment may be found in national and international organisations involved in research and nature projects, in governmental institutions dedicated to coastal systems and resource management, in consulting agencies involved in environmental approval work, in universities and organisations dedicated to developmental aid (GTZ, DAAD, DED, CIM).

Language requirements

Fluency in English is required according to level C1 of the European reference scheme for language skills and must be verified by a TOEFL test (iBT 90), IELTS (6.5) or equivalent documents.
If the last academic degree was obtained at a school or university where the primary language of instruction was English, language skills are accepted as sufficient.

Academic requirements

Students wishing to participate in the ISATEC programme must have completed their undergraduate studies and hold a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in biological or environmental sciences with excellent results. Applications may already be submitted before the previous study degree (i.e. usually BSc) has been finished, when at least 135 ECTS have been fulfilled. In those cases, admission can be granted on the condition that the previous degree will be successfully finished by 30 September.
Furthermore, they are expected to state their motives for participation in a letter of motivation to be submitted with the application. Fluency in English according to level C1 is required and must be demonstrated for instance by a TOEFL or IELTS test.

Enrolment fees

Approx. 300 EUR per semester
Fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in Bremen and parts of Lower-Saxony.

Costs of living

600 EUR to 700 EUR per month to cover personal expenses.

Job opportunities

Due to the intensive courses and the tight programme structure, there is hardly any possibility to work while studying.

Funding opportunities within the university

Limited access to the Deutschlandstipendium (depends on performance and social involvement, cannot be awarded at start of studies)
http://www.uni-bremen.de/en/deutschlandstipendiat.html

Arrival support

Arriving students are in contact with the ISATEC coordinator and the student tutor prior to their arrival in Bremen and receive directions to the coordination office.
A tutoring programme ("kompass") offered by the International Office (htp://www.uni-bremen.de/en/international.html) provides additional support.

Services and support for international students

Besides the coordinator, a student tutor is available to assist newcomers in the search for accommodation and with bureaucratic procedures (opening a bank account, registration at the foreign authorities' office, enrolment at the university, obtaining health insurance, etc.). Students are invited to join the extensive social and sports activities of the University of Bremen, which are free of charge.

Accommodation

ISATEC students find accommodation in the university residence halls and in private apartments and shared flats.