UNIVERSITY OF GOTHENBURG · SWEDEN
Nordic Master's Programme in Sustainable Production and Utilization of Marine Bioresources (MAR-BIO, N2MAB)
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
- 120Credits (ECTS)
- 2 yearsProgramme Duration
- 3Partner Universities (Sweden, Norway, Iceland)
- Double/Multiple DegreeGraduation Certificate
- InterdisciplinaryApproach
- Mobility focusedInternational Experience
This unique research-based Nordic Master's programme focuses on the sustainable production and utilization of marine bioresources, integrating biology, environmental and social sciences, and law. It aims to address the global challenge of increasing healthy food production while minimizing ecological footprints and protecting natural resources. The programme is designed to equip the next generation of professionals with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in the marine circular economy, aquaculture, and fisheries. Organized by a consortium of three Nordic universities – the University of Gothenburg (Sweden), Nord University (Norway), and Hólar University (Iceland) – the programme emphasizes mobility and networking. Students will engage in mandatory introductory hybrid courses with on-site components at each partner university, followed by elective courses and a significant Master's thesis project. Successful completion leads to a double or multiple degree from the participating universities, providing a strong foundation for international careers.
Curriculum
The MAR-BIO programme is a 2-year, 120 ECTS credit programme. It begins with three mandatory hybrid introductory courses (5 ECTS each), each including two weeks of online learning and one week of on-site teaching at one of the partner universities. Following these, students can choose elective courses (5-30 ECTS) from a wide range offered by the partner universities. A crucial component is the mandatory mobility of at least 30 ECTS, which involves coursework at a university other than the one where the student is registered. The second year is dedicated to a 60 ECTS Master's thesis project, which can be conducted at a partner university or with an associated industry, authority, or public body partner. Students can structure their studies with a natural science, social science, or mixed profile.
- Year 1
- Mandatory Introductory Courses (3 x 5 ECTS)MABI03 (example)
- Elective Courses
- Year 2
- Master's Thesis Project
Careers
Graduates will be prepared for diverse career paths within the marine circular economy, including roles in sustainable marine food production, aquaculture, and fisheries management. The programme fosters networking opportunities with industry, public authorities, and academia, supporting students in securing future employment or pursuing PhD studies. The mandatory international mobility is a significant asset for careers requiring global collaboration.
- PhD Student
- Professional in marine food production systems
- Professional in sustainable marine circular economy
Frequently asked questions
- Who is eligible to apply for the Nordic Master's Programme in Sustainable Production and Utilization of Marine Bioresources (MAR-BIO)?
- To be eligible, you need a Bachelor's Degree with 180 ECTS credits in natural science, social science, or arts. You must also have completed a relevant methodology course during your bachelor's degree or be prepared to take one in the first year of the MAR-BIO programme.
- How do I apply for the MAR-BIO programme?
- Applications for the Autumn 2026 intake via the University of Gothenburg are paused. Prospective students must apply through one of the partner universities: Nord University (Norway) or Hólar University (Iceland) via their respective admission portals.
- What are the tuition fees for the MAR-BIO programme?
- Tuition fees apply to students from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland. An application fee of SEK 900 is also required for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens. Payment of tuition fees is generally required before studies begin, with deadlines typically around May 1st.
- What is the structure and duration of the MAR-BIO programme?
- The MAR-BIO programme is a 2-year, 120 ECTS credit programme. It includes mandatory introductory courses, elective courses, and a significant Master's thesis project, with mandatory mobility between partner universities.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MAR-BIO programme?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in the marine circular economy, including roles in sustainable marine food production, aquaculture, and fisheries management. The programme also supports further PhD studies.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's Degree180 ECTS credits in natural science, social science, or arts.
Students must also have taken a relevant methodology course during their bachelor's degree or the first year of the MAR-BIO programme to be eligible for the degree project.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are applicable for students outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland. The exact amount varies by programme and is listed on the specific course or programme page. An application fee of SEK 900 is also required for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
Tuition (home)Not applicable for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens.
LivingNot specified.
Payment of tuition fees is required before studies begin, with deadlines typically around May 1st for new students. Payment can be made via bank transfer or card. Students are advised to pay directly to avoid potential fraud.
How to apply
1. Check Application StatusAs applications via the University of Gothenburg are paused, you must apply through a partner university.
2. Apply to Partner UniversitySubmit your application to either Nord University (Norway) or Hólar University (Iceland) via their respective admission portals.
3. Complete Application RequirementsEnsure all required documents and academic prerequisites are met as per the partner university's guidelines.
4. Pay Application Fee (if applicable)Citizens outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland usually pay an application fee of SEK 900 when applying through universityadmissions.se (though direct application to partner sites may have different fee structures).
5. Await Admission DecisionFollow the timeline provided by the partner university for admission notifications.
Accreditation
The programme leads to a double/multiple degree from the participating Nordic universities.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible to apply for the Nordic Master's Programme in Sustainable Production and Utilization of Marine Bioresources (MAR-BIO)?
+
To be eligible, you need a Bachelor's Degree with 180 ECTS credits in natural science, social science, or arts. You must also have completed a relevant methodology course during your bachelor's degree or be prepared to take one in the first year of the MAR-BIO programme.
How do I apply for the MAR-BIO programme?
+
Applications for the Autumn 2026 intake via the University of Gothenburg are paused. Prospective students must apply through one of the partner universities: Nord University (Norway) or Hólar University (Iceland) via their respective admission portals.
What are the tuition fees for the MAR-BIO programme?
+
Tuition fees apply to students from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland. An application fee of SEK 900 is also required for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens. Payment of tuition fees is generally required before studies begin, with deadlines typically around May 1st.
What is the structure and duration of the MAR-BIO programme?
+
The MAR-BIO programme is a 2-year, 120 ECTS credit programme. It includes mandatory introductory courses, elective courses, and a significant Master's thesis project, with mandatory mobility between partner universities.
What are the career prospects after completing the MAR-BIO programme?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in the marine circular economy, including roles in sustainable marine food production, aquaculture, and fisheries management. The programme also supports further PhD studies.