Ecosystem Sciences (BSc) University of Göttingen

The BSc in Ecosystem Sciences is an interdisciplinary, research-based programme. This degree serves to provide its graduates with diverse knowledge and practical skills in ecosystem and environmental sciences.

The complex nature of ecosystems is one of the main challenges for researchers worldwide. This complexity promotes thinking in broad contexts, in research networks, and in interdisciplinary subject areas. The programme is taught completely in English, and we aim to have a very international group of highly motivated and qualified students, including students from Germany, other European countries, and abroad.

You will have the opportunity to study subjects that cross traditional disciplines (from molecules to landscape-level methods and laboratory methods). Learning generally starts from understanding the basis of complex biological and ecological processes. Later on, you will learn about different advanced scientific methods for analysing complex ecosystems. At the end of the studies, you will be able to design and carry out your own research projects.

The Bachelor's programme mediates the necessary basics for researching and understanding complex ecosystems. It is research-oriented and focuses on practical training in scientific methods, field and laboratory work, and data analysis and modelling.

You will get a solid foundation in practical skills such as experimental design and scientific presentation. Also, the programme supports students in developing critical thinking, systematic problem solving, and other transferable skills.

The programme is taught by lecturers from the Faculty of Forest Sciences and Forest Ecology who have extensive experience and expertise in innovative research as well as modern methods in environmental sciences.

The degree programme will qualify graduates for research or analytical occupations concerning environmental issues or for a continuing Master's degree programme.

In the first year, you will learn the fundamentals of ecology, biology, and natural sciences.

In the second year, you will deepen your knowledge of ecology and ecological processes. You will learn different scientific methods in practical courses (laboratory techniques, field methods, modelling tools).

In the third year, you will have the opportunity to customise your studies with an elective semester. You can do a research internship anywhere in the world or participate as an intern in the research activities of the faculty. It is also possible to take elective courses at partner universities or in Göttingen.

In the last semester, students prepare the Bachelor's thesis.

There is the possibility to participate as an intern in the research activities of the faculty.

Restricted admission, application to the university

An indispensable prerequisite for starting a course of study is always documentary evidence of a university entrance qualification (in German "Hochschulzugangsberechtigung" or "HZB"). This qualification can be acquired in various ways either at school or through gainful employment.

The following documents may qualify you for the "HZB":

• graduation documents (school-leaving certificate and transcript of grades)
• university entrance examinations
• certificate of assessment ("Feststellungsprüfung" at the "Studienkolleg")
• evidence of prior study periods
• final degree (at a university or college)

Please check here: https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/47057.html

The fees are around 460 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket, which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as buses. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals are available at reduced prices at university canteens.

The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about 800 to 1,000 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age. International students should note that it is not possible to study in Germany without sufficient financing.

Further information on the requirements for non-EU citizens (proof of finances) can be found on the Visa and Residence Permit page of the International Office.

Students may find part-time jobs at local businesses or on campus, as long as their study performance is not affected. We do not recommend planning to fully finance your studies in Germany through a part time job. Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or visa. Special regulations apply for non-EU students. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. Foreign applicants should note that it is not easy to find a job in order to finance their studies, as German students are also searching for jobs. Non-EU students are allowed to work for a maximum of 120 full days (or 240 half days) per year.

Germany scholarship: Deutschlandstipendium
Lower Saxony scholarship: Niedersachsenstipendium

The Career Service of the university offers individual support for the job entry. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme.

If you are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The university supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts. Start-up support

The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.

University of Göttingen — Committed to Excellence
Founded in 1737, the University of Göttingen is a research-driven university of high international standing. It is renowned for its diverse range of academic disciplines, research-oriented teaching, and outstanding scientific environment in which more than 45 Nobel laureates have studied, taught, or pursued their research. With about 27,300 students — more than 18 percent of whom are international — and more than 206 degree programmes, the university is one of the largest in Germany.

Variety of study programmes
The University of Göttingen offers a vast variety of academic programmes for undergraduate and graduate studies. Internationally renowned expert researchers teach in more than 40 academic disciplines. More than 40 full-time undergraduate and graduate programmes are taught entirely in English. Five International Max-Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) prepare students for unique careers in scientific research. Additionally, a growing number of double degree programmes with prestigious international universities  available.

Guidance, supervision, and study conditions
Students are given comprehensive advisory and supervisory support in all phases of their studies. Since advice and guidance are crucially important for the successful outcome of a university career, the University of Göttingen is constantly improving and extending its performance in this area.

Excellent library
The Göttingen State and University Library (SUB Göttingen) is one of Germany’s leading academic libraries, with holdings of over ten million books, journals, and other media. It offers a wide range of services to support study and research and plays a key role in numerous national and international projects focused on enhancing access to information and developing digital research infrastructures.

Alumni worldwide
As a member of Göttingen alumni, you will remain part of the international "Göttingen Family" even after your graduation. The alumni association connects alumni worldwide and keeps them informed about current developments at the university and in the city of Göttingen. Through online and offline events, workshops, career support and social projects, it offers numerous opportunities for networking, mentoring, and social commitment.

www.uni-goettingen.de/international-students

Göttingen — A Great Place to Live and Study

Göttingen, with a population of approximately 130,000, is a city where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. Its beautifully preserved timber-framed houses in the historic city centre and the vibrant student population of the University of Göttingen — about 27,300 students — create a lively and welcoming atmosphere that’s hard to match.

The university’s departments and buildings are primarily located on two main campuses, all within easy walking or cycling distance. Student housing for around 4,700 individuals, along with excellent canteens operated by the student services organisation (Studierendenwerk), ensure high quality of life at a low cost.

The university maintains close collaboration with numerous non-university research institutions in Göttingen. Together, they form the Göttingen Campus—an alliance of leading research centres. This includes four Max Planck Institutes , the Göttingen Academy of Sciences and Humanities in Lower Saxony, the German Primate Centre (DPZ), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), and the University Medical Centre (UMG). This collaborative environment fosters openness and innovation, offering opportunities for students at all levels—Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD—to pursue fresh ideas alongside experienced researchers. Many scholars from these institutes also teach at the university, and joint professorial appointments help build strong links between the university and its campus partners. This unique structure reinforces Göttingen’s reputation as one of Germany’s most research-focused universities.

Located in the geographical centre of Germany and Europe, Göttingen enjoys excellent travel connections: Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt are each just a two-hour train ride away. But you don’t need to leave the city to enjoy a break—Göttingen offers a wide range of recreational and cultural activities. The city is home to three theatres, a symphony orchestra, multiple cinemas, cafés, and pubs, providing plenty of opportunities to meet new people and relax. You can also get involved with the student union, which organises a variety of cultural and recreational events throughout the year.

For sports enthusiasts, Göttingen and the university offer a wealth of opportunities. The University Sports Centre (Zentrale Einrichtung für Sport und Gesundheit) is one of the largest in Germany, offering more than 150 different activities at very affordable prices. Facilities include an indoor pool, the RoXx climbing centre, the FIZ fitness studio, and several outdoor sports fields—ensuring something for everyone. You can find the full overview on the official UniSport website.