In the course of your studies, you will complete 17 modules and a Master thesis. Your acquisition of theoretical knowledge is deepened through practical exercises such as field measurements and hands on simulation of the earth system on powerful supercomputers.
To get everyone up to speed, the first semester consists of learning the fundamentals and basic skills needed for earth system sciences in a series of compulsory modules. From the second semester onwards you can already choose elective modules (blue) too, depending on your chosen research specialization - a unique aspect of this course.
During your third semester you will also have the opportunity to conduct research at an ELLS partner university or to do a semester abroad within the ERASMUS program.
Especially innovative components of our program are:
- Our lively Debate Seminar where you will improve your skills of communication and persuasion
- Operation and analyses of regional climate models
- Data assimilation as a key technology in weather forecasting, climate simulations and reanalyses of regional climate
- Remote sensing methods for earth system observations and climate studies
- Synthesis of physical sciences with economic models
In addition to the compulsory modules, you will choose 7 elective modules in the second and third semester based on your interests and choice of specialization. It is also possible to take modules from other Master’s programs in Hohenheim or at other German or foreign universities to broaden your research options.
We have 3 specialization profiles, each containing a package of elective modules tailored according to their subject matter, so you can choose your personal research direction:
Profile 1: Earth System Processes - Observation and Simulation
Profile 2: Agroecosystems and Food Security
Profile 3: Sustainability and Environmental Resources
From a wide range of elective modules, here are just a few you can select:
- Special Topics of Earth System Science
- Remote Sensing of the Earth System
- Agricultural and Forest Meteorology
- Measurement, Modelling and Data Assimilation II
- Spatial Data Analysis with Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Statistics for Natural Sciences
- Global Change Issues
- Ecotoxicology and Environmental Analytics
- Poverty and Development Strategies
