Information about the individual modules can be found in the module catalog.

In the first year
of the program, our students are brought to the same level of knowledge in physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics as well as economics. Our students acquire a comprehensive overview of the Earth system and familiarize themselves with its basic functioning. During the course of the second semester, students develop transdisciplinary thinking skills essential to Earth system science by taking modules with cross-cutting topics, combining the natural and agricultural sciences with economics. This way they arrive at a unique perspective on our Earth.

Students also take measurements in the field, analyze and interpret their data, and start to apply computer models. With the completion of the first year, students are able to create a representation of the state of the Earth system at a given time by combining measurement data with physical process descriptions by means of data assimilation. Starting in the second semester and intensified in the third, our students have the opportunity to choose elective modules based on their personal and professional interests.

During the second year,
you expand your expertise in creating models based on collected data by more strongly factoring in social and economic aspects. You are now able to create holistic models of the Earth system, enabling you to develop concepts of sustainability for its protection. Furthermore, the second year allows you to freely plan your studies according to your individual interests and preferred areas of specialization. The open structure of the third semester also provides you with an excellent opportunity to study abroad. Upon completion of the program, you will have acquired a comprehensive understanding of the Earth system and knowledge of the various ways in which human behavior influences this fragile system.

A research-intensive Master’s thesis
integrated into ongoing research at the Institute of Physics and Meteorology allows you to demonstrate your ability to conduct independent scientific work: you will be able to make your own contributions to earth system analyses and research as well as to ecologically-sustainable developments in society. You will stand out through your interdisciplinary thinking and flexibility when it comes to applying scientific methodologies in your work.