Start Your Journey into Ecosystem Sciences

The Bachelor program mediates the necessary basics for research 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. It is completely taught in English.

You will get a solid grounding in practical skills like experimental design and scientific presentation. Also, the program supports students in developing critical thinking, systematic problem-solving, and other transferable skills. The program 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 program 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.

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

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

In the third year, you have the opportunity to customize your studies in an elective semester and prepare their Bachelor thesis. 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.

The knowledge of ecosystem scientists is in demand within the area of nature conservation, with consultancy and planning offices (e.g. GIS- and IT-services), at universities, in research institutes and public environmental offices as well as in international organizations.

Possible career paths include:

• Environmental and nature conservation organizations
• Research institutes and universities
• Governmental and international environmental agencies
• Environmental planning and consulting firms

The program also provides an excellent foundation for pursuing a Master’s degree in Forest and Ecosysstem Sciences, environmental sciences or related interdisciplinary fields.

The program starts in the winter semester.

Applicants must hold a recognized university entrance qualification and demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English, as the language of instruction is English. German language skills do not have to be proven.

Following proofs are accepted:

• „International English Language Testing System" (IELTS Academic): min. volume 6.0
• „Test of English as a Foreign Language, internet-based test” (TOEFL iBT): min. 81 points
• Cambridge English Scale: min. 160 points
• Global Scale of English (Pearson Academic): min. 59 points
• UNIcert®: min. Zertifikat UNIcert® II;
• NULTE-certificate: min. level B2;

Certificates can´t be accepted if they are older than 2 years.

It is also acceptable as a proof:

• At least one-year-stay in a country where English is official language for study or work purposes
• Average grade of at least 12 grade points in high school subject “English” within the 2 last years before university entrance qualification

The proof can be submitted after application deadline but before enrolment. It is a prerequisite for enrolment.

There are different application deadlines for EU and for Non-EU citizen. The program has a restricted admission. 

Up‑to‑date knowledge from current research!

At the University of Göttingen, you receive a scientific, diverse, and well‑rounded education in forest and environmental sciences. You not only gain practical experience, but also learn what is currently happening in forest‑related research. Throughout your studies, you frequently work with researchers and experts from various fields – for example forest nature conservation, bioclimatology, forest ecology, wood biology, or remote sensing.

This makes your studies varied and gives you the opportunity to develop your own interests and specializations. Thanks to the close connection to research, you are always up to date and excellently prepared for a wide range of careers related to forest, nature and environment.

Unique in Germany!

The Faculty of Forest Sciences and Forest Ecology in Göttingen is the only independent faculty of forestry in Germany. This ensures that the forest is truly at the center of everything we do. According to the CHE university ranking, the Faculty of Forest Sciences at the University of Göttingen is regularly rated among the best in Germany – both in teaching quality and research.

An excellent place to study!

You will feel at home in Göttingen – a vibrant university town located in the heart of Germany. Enjoy the wide range of cultural events, explore the great selection of university sports, or relax in the many parks or the beautiful Göttingen city forest. For nature lovers, unique natural landscapes are close by: the Harz, Hainich, and Solling regions are just around the corner.