Landscape Ecology (LandEcol)

Climate, soils, human land use, and other aspects of the environment vary over time and in space. Landscape ecology examines how organisms respond to such environmental variation, how the interactions in variable environments determine community dynamics, and how these dynamics affect ecosystem processes. These fundamental topics of ecology and biodiversity research are also crucial for answering pressing questions posed by global environmental change.

Educational organisation

The first year is dedicated to advanced studies in landscape, community, evolutionary, and plant ecology as well as conservation biology. Furthermore, a strong focus lies on quantitative ecology, notably on statistical ecology and the design of ecological experiments and studies. The programme also offers courses in ecological modelling and forecasting, geographical information systems (GIS), and remote sensing. Top priority is given to project- and team-oriented work with numerous field, lab, and computer classes.

The second year gives students the opportunity to choose from a wide range of elective modules such as animal and microbial ecology, limnology, population genetics, soil science, agricultural science, and global change biology. A personal mentor from the teaching staff advises students on module selections as well as supports students in planning their studies in a smooth and goal-oriented way. As part of the Master's programme, students can also study abroad for one semester.

The Master's thesis can be conducted as a part of ongoing research projects in Germany, Europe, and across the world.

Study abroad unit(s)

Students have the opportunity to spend the third semester at one of the many partner universities abroad.

Internships

Internships are not compulsory, but recommended. The internship must be organised by the student and has to fit the schedule of the programme. Upon request, the Career Center may assist in finding an internship.

Forms of assessment

Written assessment (exams, presentations, essays, thesis, etc.)
Oral assessment (exams, presentations, defence, etc.)

Course objectives

Students acquire the ecological understanding, quantitative skills, and practical experience necessary to study ecological dynamics in changing environments. This enables them to assess the effects of environmental change on biodiversity and ecosystems and to develop concepts for the sustainable use of natural resources.

The programme provides in-depth training in ecological theory, concepts, and methods. This enables graduates to address applied and fundamental research questions in a creative and scientifically sound way. These skills are necessary to answer pressing questions posed by global environmental change:

• How can we conserve biodiversity under global change?
• How can we maintain ecosystem services that are important for society?
• How can natural resources be used sustainably in a changing environment?

Furthermore, students improve the following skills:

• working in teams in a structured and goal-oriented way
• leading teams
• systematically developing solutions

Language requirements

TOEFL: minimum 90 internet-based
or
IELTS: minimum 6.5

Academic requirements

Above-average Bachelor of Science (BSc) or equivalent degree in agricultural sciences, biology, ecology, environmental science, landscape planning, or a related discipline.

Enrolment fees

About 160 EUR per semester

Costs of living

Living expenses in Germany are relatively high. Each student should calculate at least 700 EUR per month for accommodation, food, health insurance, and public transport.
For the first month, students should expect higher costs, as they have to pay registration fees.
Rent for a single room varies from 220 EUR to 400 EUR per month.

Job opportunities

Hohenheim offers enrolled students assistant jobs on campus. Students are responsible for managing working hours and these hours should not conflict with their studies. Working off campus is also possible according to the Aliens Act. However, please be aware that without good knowledge of German, jobs are quite difficult to find.

Arrival support

Assistance with accommodation, enrolment, and health insurance is provided by the international office. The programme coordination office can help with the organisation of the studies and other formalities.

Services and support for international students

German language courses for beginners and advanced learners are offered during the semester.
Students can participate in ten introductory days with trips and presentations to get to know the university facilities and local surroundings.
"Warm-up seminars" (intercultural seminar, facts and skills seminar) are offered before the start of the programme.
Upon request, a personal mentor from the teaching staff can advise students on appropriate study profiles as well as support students in planning their studies in a smooth and goal-oriented way.

Accommodation

There are five residence halls on campus. All rooms are furnished and have telephone and internet access. Kitchens, bathroom facilities, and washing machines are available, and these are mostly shared with flatmates. Personal belongings like towels and bed sheets are not provided. Depending on size and quality, prices for rent vary from 220 EUR to 400 EUR per month. Rooms in dormitories are usually available for the first year. In the second year, students have to look for accommodation on the private market.