Master in Ecology and Ecosystems

What you study

The Master's in Ecology and Ecosystems is taught in English at the University of Vienna. The programme focuses on understanding ecosystem processes and the link between biodiversity and how ecosystems function. You look at current research questions in ecology and learn contemporary methods for studying them. The programme also brings together biodiversity and ecosystem questions in interdisciplinary research approaches, so you get used to working across boundaries rather than staying in one narrow lane.

Admission, language and next steps

There is no entrance examination for this programme. The teaching language is English, so you need to be comfortable studying and writing at master's level in English. Applications go directly to the University of Vienna, not through a central portal, and the university's own page gives the application period and the documents you need. The degree is a Master of Science (MSc) worth 120 ECTS and takes two years (four semesters). As a public university, EU/EEA and Swiss students pay no tuition within the standard duration plus two semesters; other students pay a fee per semester. Check the university's page for the exact amount and any other charges.

The aim of the English-language master's programme in Ecology and Ecosystems is to train students in the natural sciences to enable them after graduation to work as scientists on current research questions in ecology using contemporary methods and, as decision-makers in business, administration and international organisations, to recognise ecological problems and challenges, assess their possible consequences and consider them adequately in their decisions. The focus of the programme is on understanding ecosystem processes and the connection between biodiversity and the functionality of ecosystems. The integration of biodiversity- and ecosystem-oriented questions will introduce the students to interdisciplinary research approaches.

There is no central application portal in Austria: you apply to the institution, here University of Vienna. 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.