SORBONNE UNIVERSITY · FRANCE
Master's in Biodiversity, Ecology and Evolution - Systematics, Evolution, Paleontology (SEP) Specialization
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Jointly offered by Sorbonne University and MNHNInstitution
- Focus on evolutionary sciences, systematics, and paleontologySpecialization
- Develops expertise in biological diversity analysisKey Skills
- Prepares for research and non-academic careersCareer Paths
The Systematics, Evolution, Paleontology (SEP) specialization within the Master's in Biodiversity, Ecology, and Evolution offers in-depth training focused on describing and analyzing the products of biological evolution across all scales of space and time. It leverages the strengths of both Sorbonne University and the National Museum of Natural History (MNHN) to provide excellent European-level education. This program is unique in offering advanced studies in systematics and top-tier training in paleontology. Students will gain expertise in systematic methods, paleontology, identification of biological diversity origins, natural heritage management, and computational approaches applied to biodiversity.
Curriculum
The SEP specialization is delivered over two years (four semesters). The first year includes core courses and fundamental training, while the second year allows for specialization and culminates in a research internship.
- Year 1 - Semester 1
- Statistics and Data Analysis
- Major Environmental Issues
- Geographic Information Systems
- English
- Fundamentals in Biodiversity, Ecology, Evolution
- Taxonomy and Phylogeny
- Year 1 - Semester 2
- Orientation and Professional Integration
- Environmental Law
- Methodology
- Modeling
- Internship
- Tree and Wood
- Object-Oriented Design, Representation, Analysis, and Programming
- Adaptation and Phylogeny (Banyuls)
- Comparative Anatomy (Vertebrate Osteology)
- Paleontological Archives
- Scientific Drawings
- Methods for Taxonomic and Identification Discrimination
- The Origin of Species
- Paleontology: From Field to Analysis
- Paleoclimatology
- Year 2 - Semester 3
- Specialization Tracks:
- Systematics and Evolution
- History of Biodiversity and Paleontology
- International Track: Biodiversity and Tropical Environments (BEVT)
- International Track: Erasmus Mundus TROPIMUNDO
- Computer Science Applied to Biodiversity
- Year 2 - Semester 4
- Research Internship
Careers
Graduates of the SEP specialization are well-prepared for both academic research and diverse non-academic roles.
- Academic Researcher / Professor
- Research Engineer
- Scientific Mediator / Journalist
- Project Manager (R&D, Environment, Heritage)
- Ecological and Faunistic Expert
- Collection Manager (Paleontological, Heritage)
- Environmental Project Manager
- Agroforestry Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- For the 2023-2024 academic year, the annual tuition fees for non-EU students were €2,430. EU students paid €170 per year. These are national rates and may differ from specific program costs.
- What are the entry requirements for the Master's in Biodiversity, Ecology, and Evolution - SEP Specialization?
- A Bachelor's degree in Biology, Geosciences, or a related bi-disciplinary field is required. Candidates should also demonstrate motivation for studying current and fossil organisms, evolution, biodiversity, and theoretical biology.
- How long is the program and what is the structure?
- The SEP specialization is delivered over two years (four semesters). The first year includes core courses, and the second year focuses on specialization and culminates in a research internship.
- What are the career prospects after completing this specialization?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Academic Researcher/Professor, Research Engineer, Scientific Mediator/Journalist, Project Manager (R&D, Environment, Heritage), Ecological and Faunistic Expert, Collection Manager, and Environmental Project Manager.
- What is the estimated cost of living in Paris for students?
- Estimated living costs in Paris can vary, but a general estimate for students is approximately €800-€1200 per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA Bachelor's degree in Biology, Geosciences, or a related bi-disciplinary field is required. Candidates should be motivated by the study of current and fossil organisms, evolution, biodiversity, and theoretical biology.
Applications are evaluated by at least three members of the teaching staff. Selection is a joint effort between Sorbonne University and MNHN, based on academic record, clarity of professional project, and motivation for the study of systematics, evolution, and/or paleontology.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees for Master's programs at Sorbonne University are set annually by the Ministry of Higher Education and Research. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the annual tuition fees were €2,430 for non-EU students and €170 for EU students. Please note these are national rates and may differ from specific program costs.
Tuition (home)For the 2023-2024 academic year, national tuition fees were €170 per year for EU students. Please note these are national rates and may differ from specific program costs.
LivingEstimated living costs for students in Paris can vary significantly. A general estimate for a student in Paris is approximately €800-€1200 per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
These figures represent national registration fees and general estimates. Specific program fees or additional costs are not detailed.
How to apply
1. Identify the ProgramConfirm your interest in the 'Systematics, Evolution, Paleontology (SEP)' specialization within the Master's in Biodiversity, Ecology, and Evolution.
2. Review Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic prerequisites, typically a Bachelor's degree in Biology, Geosciences, or a related field.
3. Prepare Application DocumentsGather academic transcripts, degree certificates, a statement of purpose or motivation letter, and any other required documentation.
4. Submit ApplicationApplications are submitted through the Sorbonne University or MNHN online application portals (specific portal details should be verified on their official websites).
5. Selection ProcessYour application will be reviewed by the academic team. Selection is based on academic merit, professional project, and motivation.
6. Admission DecisionSuccessful candidates will be notified of their admission offer.
Accreditation
The program is a specialization within the Master's in Biodiversity, Ecology, and Evolution, jointly offered by Sorbonne University and the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle (MNHN).
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
For the 2023-2024 academic year, the annual tuition fees for non-EU students were €2,430. EU students paid €170 per year. These are national rates and may differ from specific program costs.
What are the entry requirements for the Master's in Biodiversity, Ecology, and Evolution - SEP Specialization?
+
A Bachelor's degree in Biology, Geosciences, or a related bi-disciplinary field is required. Candidates should also demonstrate motivation for studying current and fossil organisms, evolution, biodiversity, and theoretical biology.
How long is the program and what is the structure?
+
The SEP specialization is delivered over two years (four semesters). The first year includes core courses, and the second year focuses on specialization and culminates in a research internship.
What are the career prospects after completing this specialization?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Academic Researcher/Professor, Research Engineer, Scientific Mediator/Journalist, Project Manager (R&D, Environment, Heritage), Ecological and Faunistic Expert, Collection Manager, and Environmental Project Manager.
What is the estimated cost of living in Paris for students?
+
Estimated living costs in Paris can vary, but a general estimate for students is approximately €800-€1200 per month, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.