Water Science

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Deadline: Jun 15, 2025
StudyQA ranking:3573 Duration:2 years

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Water Science at the University of Duisburg-Essen is an interdisciplinary and innovative degree programme designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills related to the sustainable management, analysis, and preservation of water resources. The programme integrates disciplines such as hydrology, environmental science, chemistry, and engineering to address global challenges associated with water availability, quality, and pollution. Students will learn about the physical, chemical, and biological processes governing water systems, as well as modern techniques for water treatment, monitoring, and modeling.

Throughout the course of study, students engage with both theoretical foundations and practical applications, including laboratory work, field studies, and computer-based simulations. Emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility, the programme prepares graduates for careers in water management agencies, environmental consulting firms, research institutions, and industries focusing on water treatment and conservation. The curriculum covers essential topics such as water chemistry, hydrological processes, water quality assessment, pollutant dynamics, and climate change impacts on water resources.

In addition to scientific and technical skills, students develop critical thinking, data analysis, and project management competencies. The programme also encourages international mobility and intercultural exchange through various partnerships and exchange programmes, enabling students to gain global perspectives on water-related issues. Graduates of Water Science at the University of Duisburg-Essen are well-positioned to contribute to solving pressing water challenges worldwide by applying innovative solutions and promoting sustainable practices. The programme combines academic excellence with practical experience to prepare students for a dynamic career in the crucial field of water resource management and environmental protection.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme in Water Science comprises four semesters including a six-month Master's thesis in the final semester. It comprises 120 credits (ECTS) including the Master's thesis (30 credit points). 32 credit points are allocated to optional courses. 27 credit points are allocated to practical courses.

For further information see module guide at:
http://www.uni-due.de/water-science/organisatorisches_en.php
Exemplary timetables for semesters one to three are available on the Water Science homepage at: https://www.uni-due.de/water-science/lehre_en.php

Study abroad unit(s)

None required but optional for Master's thesis

Internships

None obligatory

Forms of assessment

Written and oral exams, oral presentation, lab and research reports, Master's thesis
For further information see module handbook at: http://www.uni-due.de/water-science/organisatorisches_en.php

Course objectives

Water is one of the most precious resources on earth. The growing demands for safe, clean and affordable potable water can only be met by increased interdisciplinary knowledge of water quality and the advanced, effective and sustainable treatment of water. The Master's course Water Science imparts in-depth knowledge and practical experience about scientific aspects of aquatic systems with focuses on chemistry, applied microbiology and analytics. Many successful alumni are already working in academia and industry.

Language requirements

Reasonable English language proficiency (e.g. TOEFL (itb 100), IELTS 6.5 or higher, Cambridge FCE, European reference level B2/C1 or equivalent). Previous education in English is not accepted as a certification for English language skills!

Academic requirements

Formal requirements for enrolment in the MSc Programme in Water Science include:
  • A university Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in natural sciences or engineering with chemical, analytical and biological / microbiological contents, including generally an experimental Bachelor's thesis on a topic relevant for the field of Water Science
  • GPA of at least 66 (out of 100) is required
  • Reasonable English language proficiency (e.g. TOEFL (itb 100), IELTS 6.5 or higher, Cambridge FCE, European reference level B2/C1 or equivalent). Previous education in English is not accepted as a certification for English language skills!
  • Documented practical courses in essential chemical, analytical and microbiological topics
  • A completely filled out application form (available on the website of the Department of Chemistry; https://www.uni-due.de/water-science/)
  • Students from non-EU member countries must enclose a letter of recommendation from their home institution.
  • CHINESE students please note: You have to provide an APS certificate along with your application documents.
  • Application form from the department: https://www.uni-due.de/water-science/

Based on these documents, the examination committee will decide upon acceptance.

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

Social fee and enrolment fee around 300 EUR per semester
Fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the North Rhine-Westphalia area (NRW ticket).

Costs of living

We recommend that students budget around 800 EUR per month for personal expenses (depending on costs of accommodation and living standard).

Job opportunities

Highly qualified students may be employed as student research or teaching assistants at institutes within the Faculty of Chemistry as well as at research institutes affiliated with the university (IWW, IUTA). Companies in the region offer similar jobs.

Arrival support

International Office

Services and support for international students

International Office, International Welcome Day (Department of Chemistry), mentoring, etc.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the Student Residence Service or on the private market. Admission to the course does not automatically include an offer for a room but requires individual application. This can be done online at: http://studentenwerk.essen-duisburg.de/nc/en/accommodation/online-application/. Rent for a single room in a student residence starts at just 260 EUR.
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