Molecular Ecosystem Sciences

The new BSc programme is an ambitious combination of teaching modern methods, both in ecology and in molecular (bio-)sciences. Students will be exposed to the most recent developments in both fields at a very early phase of their studies, and they will become involved in research activities of leading research teams in their respective fields. Lectures provide necessary background knowledge, but we expect an understanding of natural sciences, in particular biology, from school or a willingness to independently refresh this knowledge. Most teaching modules comprise practical work, field and laboratory courses or seminars - students will receive practical training and they will frequently interact with lecturers and other students.
The three-year BSc programme comprises 18 technical modules, each with six ECTS credits and four hours of weekly training. Most modules explain the use of molecular tools to address ecological issues in various disciplines, but some are clearly focused on molecular biosciences whereas others focus mainly on ecosystem research and its applications. The technical modules are complemented by a key competence module on cross-cutting issues in each semester. A full semester is reserved for elective modules and students are encouraged to spend this semester at partner universities abroad to further strengthen their international profile. The programme ends with a Bachelor's project and the BSc thesis.
The programme is conducted entirely in English, and we aim for a very international group of students including students from Germany, other European countries and abroad. We plan to attract the most qualified and motivated students and we offer a very international atmosphere.

Educational organisation

Winter semester 1:
Molecular Plant and Stress Physiology
Chemical Ecology
Ecological Genetics
Biotic and Abiotic Interactions
Laboratory Techniques

Summer semester 1:
Microbiology and Molecular Biology
Ecological Modelling
Computer Science and Mathematics
Plant Ecology and Diversity
The Science-Policy Interface: Society and Research Structures

Winter semester 2:
Terrestrial Biogeochemistry
Environmentally Friendly Production of Wood
Methods in Systems Biology
Biodiversity of Pro- and Eukaryotic Soil Microbial Communities
Scientific Methods and Project Design

Summer semester 2 (elective modules):
Special Topics in Plant Methods and Ecological Applications
Semiochemical Diversity
Protection of Renewable Resources
Conservation of Biodiversity
Intraspecific Diversity of Plants
Research internship
Scientific project
Practical training in laboratory techniques

Winter semester 3:
Conservation and Ecosystem Management
Atmosphere-Ecosystem-Interactions
Resource Assessment in Ecosystems
Isotopes in Ecosystem Science
Scientific Writing

Summer semester 3:
Global Change
Molecular Soil Ecology
BSc Project
BSc Thesis

Study abroad unit(s)

A full semester is reserved for elective modules, and students are encouraged to spend this semester at partner universities abroad to further strengthen their international profile.

Internships

Optional for the vacation period

Forms of assessment

The forms of assessment vary depending on the module: oral/written examinations, reports, protocols, term papers and presentations. The programme ends with a Bachelor's project and the BSc thesis.

Course objectives

Graduates of this research-based study programme will have gained a solid basis to work in the fields of environmental ecology and conservation. The pace of global change leaves little doubt that their knowledge will be urgently needed. Graduates will be used to working in international teams to find innovative solutions to complex problems. These abilities are in high demand by many employers, not only in environmentally-oriented businesses. However, our vision is to stimulate young students to develop independent thinking and to immerse themselves in ecological research. Thus, many students might continue their studies as postgraduates and eventually become life-long members of the growing community of scientists working in molecular ecology.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their English skills:
TOEFL 500 (paper-based), 173 (computer-based), 61 (iBT)
CAE grade C
CFE grade B
ALTE level 3
IELTS 5
or equivalent
Such proof is not required from native English speakers or from "Abitur" holders (no longer than three years ago) with a minimum average grade of 11 in English.

Academic requirements

University entrance qualification

Enrolment fees

Enrolment fees are approx. 300 EUR per semester. Fees include a pre-paid semester ticket which entitles students to use regional trains free of charge within the federal states of Lower Saxony and Bremen, as well as city buses. Students of the University of Göttingen receive discounts for cultural events. Meals and drinks are also available at reduced prices at all university canteens.
http://www.uni-goettingen.de/fee

Costs of living

The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books reach approx. 700-750 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age. Living expenses might be slightly higher.

Job opportunities

The university supports students in finding part-time jobs in local industries and businesses. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or work contract.

Arrival support

The International Office provides a complimentary pick-up service ("Buddy Exchange Service") from Göttingen railway station to the accommodation. German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city during their first weeks. There is also an orientation week for new international students, which provides valuable information about Göttingen and the university.

Services and support for international students

The International Office assists international students with all administrative questions regarding their stay in Germany, e.g. enrolment, visa, foreigners' registration office, health insurance and financing of their studies. Furthermore, it features a broad cultural programme, e.g. international cultural evenings, language workshops, theatre courses, films, dance classes, theatre and opera visits. Trips to various tourist destinations in Germany are offered throughout the year.

Accommodation

The International Office, in collaboration with the student services organisation ("Studentenwerk"), helps students find adequate accommodation. Many international students live in student residences. These have single apartments or shared apartments with individual rooms. There are also apartments available for couples and families with children.