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Geosciences | Master

Summit
Photo: Ed Sobel

The Geosciences form an integral part of Earth system research; modern Geosciences are central in the context of societal efforts to adapt to global environmental changes and are therefore highly relevant for social, economic and political decision making. In the research-oriented MSc program in Geosciences at Potsdam University, students acquire in-depth knowledge of modern Geosciences, both as a fundamental science and in their fields of application, as well as gaining interdisciplinary skills. Three majors with several areas of specialization can be selected.

THE PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
NameGeosciences
DegreeMaster of Science
Standard period of study4 Semesters
Credit points120
Language of instructionEnglish
Start of study (1st semester)Winter semester
CampusGolm
Fees & ChargesSemester fees and charges: yes
Tuition fees: no

Program Content

Prof. van der Beek's helium Laboratory
Photo: Matthias Zimmermann

Based on solid mathematical, physical and chemical knowledge, students deepen their understanding of the Earth system and the complex interactions of its individual components and processes as well as their temporal variability - from the geological past to the present. Subjects of study include the structure and composition of the Earth, transport processes at the Earth's surface as well as in the Earth's interior, and the economic and (paleo)environmental significance of these processes and materials. Students familiarize themselves with key scientific concepts in the Geosciences and acquire detailed knowledge of the state of research and current methodological approaches in selected fields.

The ability to work together in an interdisciplinary manner is fostered. Personal and transferable skills, e.g. with regard to communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, the independent implementation of projects, and the preparation of reports and presentations, are promoted through varied forms of teaching (lectures, exercises, seminars as well as laboratory and field practicals at localities throughout the world).

Prof. van der Beek's helium Laboratory
Photo: Matthias Zimmermann
Photo of Walter Düsing
Walter Düsing, Alumnus

„The Master of Science program at the University of Potsdam has inspired me and opened new interesting doors for me. The institute is very well equipped and offers optimal conditions to immerse yourself in various areas of geosciences. The lecturers are very helpful and have excellent networks to the non-university research institutes in Potsdam.“

Graduates of the MSc program are prepared for their future activities and tasks in high-level positions at universities, in research institutions, in geoscientific and environmental authorities as well as in associations and non-governmental organizations (e.g. museums, geo- and nature parks). The program also prepares students for leading positions in the private sector, such as large international companies (e.g., energy companies, industrial materials research and rare metals, hazard and risk analysis) and geo-consulting firms (e.g., geographic information systems and remote sensing, groundwater development and protection, subsurface storage and sustainable energy development and utilization).

Prerequisites for Admission to the Master’s Program

The following prerequisites are required for the the Master's degree program in Geosciences:

  • undergraduate academic degree in Geosciences from an institution of higher education with a standard period of study of at least three years, amounting to at least 180 credit points with a share of at least 24 credit points in the subjects of geosciences (earth sciences, mineralogy, geology, geophysics or related subjects), as well as a total of at least 24 credit points from courses in mathematics, chemistry and physics, with at least 6 credit point per subject;
  • proof of English language skills that correspond at least to the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR);
  • applicants must provide evidence of German language skills at least at level A2 (CEFR), e.g. through a German university entrance qualification or other evidence, which you can find here.

You can read more about the subject-specific admission requirements in the respective admission regulations.

Program Structure

The Master's program in Geosciences at the University of Potsdam is offered as a single-subject program with a standard period of study (full-time study) of 4 semesters and 120 credit points. The Master's program includes three majors with the contents shown in the following overview. For additional information, please consult the subject-specific degree regulations or the Departmental Advisory Office.

Master Geosciences

Major
Geology

Major
Geophysics

Major
Mineralogy and Petrology

Sedimentary Earth System Record +
Tectonics and Geodynamics

Theoretical Geophysics +
Geophysics Laboratory

Advanced Mineralogy and
Petrology

Data Analysis +
Advanced Field Practical

Geophysical Inversion and
Data Analysis

Methods in Mineralogy and
Petrology

In-Depth Modules
Geology I + II

In-Depth Modules
Geophysics I + II

In-Depth Modules
Mineralogy/Petrology I + II

In-Depth Modules
Geology III + IV
In-Depth Modules
Geophysics III + IV

In-Depth Modules
Mineralogy/Petrology III + IV

Pratical work or InternshipPratical work or InternshipPratical work or Internship
Master ProjectMaster ProjectMaster Project

CONTENT AND CREDIT POINTS (Detailed Overview)

Advantages at a Glance

Mountain landscape
Photo: Ed Sobel

The Institute of Geosciences has undergone a generational change in recent years, with the foundation of, in addition to the established groups, new research groups focusing on new, cutting-edge topics such as volcanic seismology, geological remote sensing, and analytical mineralogy.

In the course of this, all bachelor and master courses have been fundamentally revised, with an emphasis on consistently analytical and quantitative methods, sophisticated methods of data acquisition in the field and laboratory, and subsequent data analysis, as expected of modern geoscientists today in basic research and in applications outside academia.

The partnership with the neighboring institutes GFZ, AWI and PIK with jointly appointed professors significantly expands the research and teaching portfolio of the Institute of Geosciences. This results in almost limitless, in the truest sense of the word, opportunities for students to participate in research projects.

Mountain landscape
Photo: Ed Sobel

Departmental Advising/Contact

Dr. Martin Timmerman | Specialization Mineralogy-Petrology
Golm, Building 27, Room 0.39
Phone: +49 331 977-5877
E-Mail: timmergeo.uni-potsdamde

Prof. Dr. Martin Trauth | Specialization Geology
Golm, Building 27, Room 1.32
Phone: +49 331 977-5810
E-Mail: trauthgeo.uni-potsdamde

Dr. Julien Guillemoteau | Specialization Geophysics
Golm, Building 27, Room 0.35
Phone: +49 331 977-5782
E-Mail: juliengeo.uni-potsdamde

Application and Enrollment

Have you decided to study Geosciences at the University of Potsdam? Then you should take the next step and get more information about the current application and enrollment procedures at the application website.

This description is based in part on information from the subject-specific regulations for a master’s degree in Geosciences at the University of Potsdam dated January 12, 2022 (AmBek No. 12/22, p. 401), as well as the ammendments of these regualtions.