UMEÅ UNIVERSITY · SWEDEN
Master's Programme in Ecology
Master's · Taught in en · UCAS UMU-M5000
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€28k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 yearsFull-time duration
- 120 creditsTotal credits
- EnglishLanguage of instruction
- Umeå, SwedenStudy location
- Nature conservation profileSpecialisation option
- Highest ratingQuality review score from Swedish Higher Education Authority
The Master's Programme in Ecology offers advanced training in ecological theory and practice, focusing on how human activities like fishing, forestry, pollution, and climate change impact biodiversity and ecosystem functions. You will gain skills to identify and address ecological problems, plan and conduct research, and analyze environmental data. The program has a specialisation in nature conservation and provides a strong foundation for understanding northern ecosystems. Through a combination of lectures, fieldwork, lab work, and independent projects, you will develop critical thinking and scientific expertise. This program is ideal for students passionate about nature, ecosystems, and sustainability. It prepares you for careers in research, environmental agencies, or private companies focused on ecological management and conservation. Umeå's campus location offers direct access to diverse natural environments, facilitating hands-on learning and research opportunities.
Curriculum
The program spans two years and includes core ecology courses, elective options, and a master's thesis. Students can choose to focus on specific areas and can incorporate up to 45 ECTS in related subjects like Earth Science, Physical Geography, or GIS. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application through lectures, seminars, fieldwork, and laboratory sessions.
- Year 1
- Forest Ecology or Aquatic Ecosystems5bi238 / 5bi247
- Aquatic Ecosystem Ecology5bi253
- Analysis of Field Data5bi269
- Ecological Dynamics or Molecular Ecology and Evolution5bi270 / 5bi273
- Ecosystem Management5bi268
- Year 2
- Elective Courses (e.g., Arctic Ecosystems, Limnology, Global Change Science, GIS, Soil and Water – field methods)
- Thesis Project5bi207
Careers
A Master's degree in Ecology prepares graduates for diverse roles in environmental management, conservation, and research. Graduates are equipped for positions that require ecological analysis, sustainability consulting, conservation planning, and monitoring.
- Environmental analyst
- Sustainability consultant
- Conservation planner
- Ecological monitor
- Environmental policy specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Master's Programme in Ecology?
- You need a Bachelor's degree with at least 180 ECTS, including 90 ECTS in natural sciences with a minimum of 60 ECTS in Biology. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary English 6 is also required.
- What is the tuition fee for international students?
- Non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition fees amounting to SEK 304,600 per year. EU/EEA citizens do not pay tuition fees.
- How long is the Master's Programme in Ecology?
- The programme spans two years and consists of 120 credits, including coursework and a master's thesis.
- In what language is the programme taught?
- The language of instruction for the Master's Programme in Ecology is English.
- When is the application deadline for the programme?
- The application deadline is usually January 15 for the autumn intake. The application period typically opens in October.
- What are the career prospects after completing this programme?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as environmental analysts, sustainability consultants, or conservation planners, and are also well-prepared for PhD studies or research positions.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degree or equivalent first-cycle qualificationAt least 180 ECTS or a corresponding qualification from an internationally recognised university. Must include 90 ECTS in natural sciences, with a minimum of 60 ECTS in Biology.
Proficiency in EnglishEquivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6/level 2.
Selection is based on academic credits completed by the application deadline (ranging from 30-285 ECTS).
Fees
Tuition (international)SEK 304,600 per year
Tuition (home)No tuition fees for EU/EEA citizens.
LivingNot specified.
Non-EU/EEA students are required to pay application and tuition fees. An application fee of SEK 900 applies.
How to apply
1. Check EligibilityEnsure you meet the academic (Bachelor's degree with 90 ECTS in natural sciences, including 60 ECTS in Biology) and English language requirements.
2. Prepare DocumentsGather academic transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of English proficiency.
3. Apply OnlineSubmit your application through the University Admissions in Sweden portal within the specified deadline. Note that there is an application fee for non-EU/EEA citizens.
4. Pay Tuition Fees (if applicable)Non-EU/EEA citizens must pay tuition fees. Information on payment schedules and amounts will be provided upon admission.
5. Await Admission DecisionDecisions are typically released after the application period closes. Check the admissions portal for updates.
6. Accept Offer and Prepare for ArrivalIf offered a place, follow instructions to accept your offer and begin preparations for your move to Umeå, including visa applications if necessary.
Scholarships
Swedish Institute scholarshipsCovers costs for tuition fees.
SI scholarship Pioneering women in STEMCovers costs for tuition fees.
Accreditation
The program received the highest rating in the latest quality review by the Swedish Higher Education Authority.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Master's Programme in Ecology?
+
You need a Bachelor's degree with at least 180 ECTS, including 90 ECTS in natural sciences with a minimum of 60 ECTS in Biology. Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary English 6 is also required.
What is the tuition fee for international students?
+
Non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition fees amounting to SEK 304,600 per year. EU/EEA citizens do not pay tuition fees.
How long is the Master's Programme in Ecology?
+
The programme spans two years and consists of 120 credits, including coursework and a master's thesis.
In what language is the programme taught?
+
The language of instruction for the Master's Programme in Ecology is English.
When is the application deadline for the programme?
+
The application deadline is usually January 15 for the autumn intake. The application period typically opens in October.
What are the career prospects after completing this programme?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as environmental analysts, sustainability consultants, or conservation planners, and are also well-prepared for PhD studies or research positions.