Bachelor of Science in Earth System Physics University of Hamburg

In this English-language degree programme, you will explore the physical Earth system in all its facets: from the Earth's interior to the climate and the oceans. Topics such as earthquakes, climate change and extreme weather events such as hurricanes are not only exciting, but also highly relevant to society. You will learn how to use physical and mathematical methods to investigate the dynamics of the solid Earth, the atmosphere and the oceans — in other words, how our planet "ticks". In the process, you will develop skills in measurement methods, data analysis and computer modelling. Even during your studies, you can participate in current research projects and thus help shape real science. Thanks to a flexible election of courses, you can focus on your areas of interest — whether in geophysics, meteorology or oceanography, or you can opt for a broad education in all areas of physical Earth system sciences.

Understanding the dynamic processes of the Earth system requires a sound education in mathematics and physics. These foundations are combined with an introduction to Earth system sciences in the first three semesters. Beginning in the third semester, there is a steadily growing proportion of core elective courses, which enables students to choose modules within the Earth system sciences or to specialise in a field of their interest. A large fraction of additional free electives allows cross-disciplinary education beyond Earth system physics. In the third year of study no compulsory modules are scheduled. The fifth semester is ideally suited for a stay abroad. In the sixth semester, students write a Bachelor’s thesis on a research topic of their choice. Embedded in a research group and under supervision they investigate and document a current question in the field of Earth system physics.

An overview is given here.

Deadlines for international students from the European Union
1 June to 15 July (university wide deadline)

Deadlines for international students from countries that are not members of the European Union
1 June to 15 July (university wide deadline)

Application deadline for Germans and inhabitants of Germany
1 June to 15 July (university wide deadline)

Registration for non-restricted courses only within regular application deadlines.

In order to study at Universität Hamburg, you need to have an A-level certificate (or an analogue high school certificate for international applicants). The BSc programme Earth System Physics is physics-orientated. A sixth form / senior class basic knowledge of mathematics and physics is therefore quite helpful.

There is a semester fee of approx. 380 EUR per semester. This fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in Germany.

Without additional costs for further insurances, private vehicles, etc., you ought to expect the following expenses:

• housing: approx. 400 to 700 EUR per month
• living expenses: approx. 500 to 700 EUR per month

Are you looking for a part-time job? Stellenwerk, Hamburg's cross-university job platform posts attractive job and internship advertisements every day.

Part-time work, an internship, or self-employment—the Counselling Centre for Social & International Affairs (BeSI) advises you on all aspects of social security.

Students from countries outside the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland are subject to special regulations for part-time work when studying. Contact the Counselling Centre for more information.

There are several job opportunities at Universität Hamburg. Many are offered exclusively to students. Check out departmental bulletin boards, websites, Stellenwerk, or ask directly in your department.

More information about funding opportunities can be found here.

The Career & Qualification Centre supports students and graduates of Universität Hamburg in planning their career path and acquiring interdisciplinary professional skills. It offers consultation on career goals, assistance with job searches, continuing education opportunities and networking to facilitate the transition from university to the working world.

Are you searching for an apartment or a room? Although affordable housing in Hamburg is rare, please do not despair. Patience and luck will help you find suitable accommodation.

Start looking for accommodation as soon as you can. For more information on how to find accommodation, please visit: Finding accommodation in Hamburg.

For more information on how to find accommodation and how to plan your first steps in Hamburg, please see: https://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta/beratung/doc/willkommen.pdf.