Master in Ecology and Evolution

The MSc Ecology and Evolution at the University of Salzburg is a two-year, 120 ECTS master's programme taught in English. It looks at how organisms are built, how they work, and how they change over time, from small genetic shifts to large ecological processes.

What you study

You study ecology and evolution as one connected field. The programme covers how species, populations and individuals adapt to their environments through genetic, morphological, physiological and behavioural traits. A central focus is the interaction among organisms and between organisms and their environment, and the processes that shape, maintain or threaten biodiversity.

You look at ecological and evolutionary processes across different spatial and temporal scales. You also build an understanding of the conservation, protection and sustainable use of natural resources. Teaching mixes theoretical foundations with research-related field and lab courses across several scientific disciplines. The programme is practice-oriented and often runs in international research contexts.

How the programme is organised

The degree runs over four semesters and 120 ECTS. Salzburg's position at the edge of the Alps gives you field courses, practical courses and master's topics close by. Students are usually integrated into ongoing national and international research projects, so you pick up general research skills as you go. The department behind the programme is the Department of Environment & Biodiversity.

Who it suits

This master's suits you if you want to understand living systems from the gene up to the ecosystem, and if you like working in the field and in the lab. It fits students who are curious about biodiversity, conservation and the processes behind adaptation. Because the programme is taught in English and often works with international research groups, you should be comfortable reading, writing and discussing science in English.

Admission, language and next steps

You need a bachelor's degree, or a comparable degree, in an equivalent or related field from an accredited Austrian or foreign higher education institution. The programme also lists a competence check at VFS Global. The language of instruction is English, and you must provide proof of language proficiency.

There is no central application portal. You apply directly to the University of Salzburg, and the programme page gives the dates and deadlines, which change every semester. Check the curriculum and the admission requirements on the programme page before you apply, and look at the current deadlines there.

The disciplines of ecology and evolution research the units, structures, functions and changes within our biotic environment. A deep and scientifically based understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes is a prerequisite for the conservation, protection and sustainable use of biodiversity and natural resources. This includes understanding the interactions of organisms with each other and the environment as well as the adaptive differentiation of species, populations and individuals in terms of their genetic characteristics, ecology, morphology, physiology, and developmental and reproductive biology at various spatial and temporal scales. The master's course in Ecology and Evolution provides a thorough, forward-looking and high-quality education in these areas. It is characterised by an integrative, experimental, interdisciplinary and internationally competitive approaches to education and research.

There is no central application portal in Austria: you apply to the institution, here University of Salzburg. A public university sets the admission requirements and dates for this level, so read them on the programme page. Entrance examination, as the register states it: No. Entry requirements and language tests are set by the institution, so start from the official programme page. Our guides cover tuition fees, the student residence permit and housing.