Marine Geosciences

The Master’s degree program in Marine Geosciences at the University of Bremen offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary education focused on understanding the complex processes and features of the Earth's oceans and seabed. This program is designed to equip students with in-depth knowledge of geological, physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape the marine environment. Students will gain expertise in marine sedimentology, geophysics, marine geology, and oceanography, enabling them to analyze and interpret data from various marine settings. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical training, including laboratory work, field excursions, and research projects, providing hands-on experience essential for careers in marine research, environmental consulting, resource management, and policy development. The program emphasizes the use of advanced technology and data analysis techniques, fostering skills in the utilization of geophysical survey methods, GIS, and remote sensing tools. Graduates will be prepared to address global challenges such as climate change impacts on ocean systems, seabed resource management, and sustainable development of marine environments. The university's strategic partnerships with research institutions and industry ensure that students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and real-world applications. The program typically spans four semesters and offers opportunities for specialization in areas like marine geology, geophysics, or environmental sciences. Graduates will be well-equipped for doctoral studies or to enter the workforce in scientific research, environmental assessment, or maritime industries. The University of Bremen’s Marine Geosciences Master’s program is committed to fostering international perspectives, critical thinking, and innovative research, making it an ideal choice for students passionate about advancing our understanding of the Earth’s marine systems.

Educational organisation

The interdisciplinary character of Marine Geosciences is reflected in a topic-oriented course structure. The programme strongly emphasises the understanding and modelling of processes and dynamics in natural systems.
Courses are held as lectures, seminars, exercises, field courses and projects.
A conference on geoscience topics relevant to society, organised by the students, and a field and lab practice course are mandatory during the first year.
In the compulsory elective part, courses on biogeochemical processes, climate change, marine environmental archives, marine resources and geotechnology, physics and petrology of the ocean crust, and sedimentary structures and processes are offered. By choosing three of these six core subjects, students can develop an individual profile.
During the third semester, an individually organised survey project is carried out, followed by a seminar on the conception and publication of research work. The fourth semester is dedicated to the Master's thesis. A final colloquium presentation of the thesis project completes the programme.

Study abroad unit(s)

A study exchange for a semester abroad is recommended.
Exchange studies at nine partner universities within the ERASMUS+ framework are supported. International partnerships with four universities worldwide provide opportunities to integrate an overseas experience.

Internships

None

Forms of assessment

Examinations are taken as written tests, oral examinations, seminar papers, presentations, project work (with reports and colloquia), processing of exercises, homework or field course reports. Form, deadlines, and extent of examinations will be specified by the lecturer at the beginning of each course.

Course objectives

The programme enables graduates to create and critically assess scientific results and to plan, carry out, and evaluate ship and laboratory projects independently and responsibly. With their scientific, technical, and vocational skills, graduates are excellently prepared for a variety of jobs, such as marine geoscientific research at universities, research centres or authorities, coastal management, exploration for resources off-shore or at sea, consulting on coastal or marine engineering projects, scientific journalism, or scientific management at an (inter)national level.

Language requirements

English: internationally recognised proficiency test, level C1 according to the European Framework of Reference for Languages, e.g. TOEFL (IBT 90 points), IELTS Band 6.5

Academic requirements

• Explicit interest in marine geosciences
• Bachelor of Science in a geoscientific field (or a comparable qualification)
• at least 30 ECTS credit points or an equivalent amount of courses of the curriculum in mathematics, physics, chemistry and/or biology
• at least 60 ECTS credit points or an equivalent amount of courses of the curriculum in geosciences
• very good command of the English language (textbook and teaching language; internationally recognised English proficiency test for non-native speakers, level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
• capacity to work both independently and as part of a team
• intercultural competence

Enrolment fees

Approx. 280 EUR per semester; the fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the Bremen metropolitan area.

Costs of living

Approx. 800 EUR per month to cover personal expenses; in addition, up to 1,000 EUR for field trips during the first year of study

Job opportunities

Well-qualified students may find a job as a student assistant in one of the working groups at the department. Access is limited and by no means guaranteed, and the salary is not sufficient to cover living expenses.

Arrival support

Newcomer service: transfer from airport/central station to accommodation; help with formalities regarding enrolment, health insurance, registration, visa; campus guidance; social activities Language course "Survival German"

Services and support for international students

Department: programme coordinator
International Office: general support, "kompass" project (language training, workshops for academic research and writing, social tutors, academic mentors)

Accommodation

Accommodation cannot be provided, but students are assisted in finding an apartment.