Physical Geography: Environmental History

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Deadline: Apr 30, 2026
401–500 place StudyQA ranking:8645 Duration:2 years

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The Master's degree program in Physical Geography: Environmental History at the University of Bremen offers students a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's physical environment and its historical development. This interdisciplinary program combines advanced knowledge in geomorphology, climatology, oceanography, and biogeography with insights from environmental history to analyze the dynamic interactions between natural systems and human activities over time. Students will explore the processes shaping landscapes, climate change, and environmental changes through both theoretical frameworks and practical methodologies. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of sustainable management of natural resources and the protection of ecosystems, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to address current environmental challenges and contribute to ecological research and policy development. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and research projects, students will gain hands-on experience in data collection, spatial analysis, and environmental modeling. The program encourages an integrative approach, fostering an understanding of how historical processes influence present-day environmental conditions and future developments. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for careers in environmental consulting, research institutions, governmental agencies, and NGOs focused on environmental conservation and sustainable development. Additionally, the program provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies in related fields. With a strong focus on both scientific rigor and interdisciplinary understanding, the Master's in Physical Geography: Environmental History aims to develop environmentally conscious experts capable of analyzing complex environmental issues within a historical context. The University of Bremen's state-of-the-art laboratories, extensive field sites, and international academic network support students in gaining broad and deep knowledge essential for making impactful contributions to environmental science and history.

Educational organisation

You will participate in interdisciplinary lectures, seminars, and projects. You will also gain experience through laboratory and field courses. Lecturers are leading experts in their respective fields and will provide you with information about up-to-date research questions. Thus, you will participate in ongoing research by working on your own projects while preparing your Master's thesis.

Study abroad unit(s)

You can study abroad at the University of Bremen's partner universities around the world. This is especially possible during the third semester. You can also complete an internship abroad.

Internships

There is no mandatory internship. However, you are highly welcome to complete an internship around or during the third semester to deepen your individual profile for your professional career.

Forms of assessment

Written and oral exams in accordance with the guidelines, Master's thesis
The programme consists of 120 ECTS credits.

Course objectives

Interdisciplinary projects combined with methodological training in the field, in the laboratory and on the computer (including geographical information systems - GIS), qualify you for different applied labour markets. These include jobs in public administration, planning offices, adult education, media sectors, and information technology. An academic career is also possible.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of English skills at the C1-level.

German language skills are desirable but not mandatory.

Academic requirements

Students holding a BSc degree in Geography with a focus on Physical Geography, in Geosciences or Earth Sciences with a focus on Sedimentology or Quaternary Geology, or in Archaeology with a focus on Geoarchaeology are welcome to apply. Admission requires a letter of motivation with a total length of 1,000 words, explaining your interests as well as your academic or professional background. In addition, a CV in tabular form and either a Bachelor's certificate and report or a preliminary transcript of records attesting at least 135 ECTS credits are mandatory. The Bachelor's certificate and report must be in English or German; certificates in other languages have to be translated.

During the selection process following the application deadline, you can earn points based on the average of your grades, your letter of motivation, and the technical relation of your Bachelor's programme to this Master's programme. Depending on your score, a ranking is set up and applicants are selected accordingly. No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the admission requirements. The information shows an excerpt of the admission regulations from 24 June 2015. Please be aware, that the requirements may change from year to year. For updated information, please visit http://www.uni-bremen.de/master.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

  • ✔️ Flexible study schedule
  • ✔️ Experienced teachers
  • ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Enrolment fees

Fee of about 280 EUR per semester (includes ticket for public transportation)

Costs of living

From about 600 EUR per month

Job opportunities

Depending on your visa, you may apply to work as a student assistant in ongoing research projects.

Services and support for international students

Course coordinators as well as special trained staff within the "Kompass Programme" for international students offer supervision and mentoring.

The University of Bremen won the "International University 2012" award for the best and most innovative support of international students.

Accommodation

Dormitories and private accommodation. Prices for rent are reasonable in Bremen.
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Study mode:On campus Languages: English
Local:$ 3.73 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 3.73 k / Year(s)
Deadline: Jan 15, 2026 StudyQA ranking: 8724