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Module guide for the master´s program Biodiversity and Conservation

The spectrum of studies in the master´s program Biodiversity and Conservation represents  the wide range of the six participating specialist fields. Additionally lecturers of the neighboring Max-Planck-Institute for Terrestrial Microbiology are involved in some modules.

All modules of the degree program are compulsory elective modules, which means that you have to pass all module areas but within this areas you have different options.
For example: During your studies you have to pass four Advanced Modules - obligatory! But those four modules you can choose out of a range of appr. 15 different modules.

Modules and Module Manuals

The degree programs are comprised of modules. A module is a teaching unit whose content and themes are covered over the course of one or two semesters. Each module receives credits (ECTS points) that reflect the average work load of a student for the given module.

Here you will find an overview of all offered modules in the MSc "Biodiversity and Conservation" in classified order. Please check also the exemplary schedule.

  • Advanced Modules

    In the first two semesters you choose four  Advanced Modules at free option in order to achieve advanced theoretical and practical knowledge. 

    Offered Advanced Modules

    ·        Species Knowledge of Taxa Relevant for Conservation Practice

    ·        Practical Work Experience Biodiversity and Conservation

    ·        Biogeography of Ecological Systems

    ·        Biogeography and Macroevolution of Plants

    ·        Community Ecology and Multitrophic Interactions

    ·        Developmental Biology of Marine Organisms (Organismic Focus)

    ·        Microbial Ecology (Organismic Focus)

    ·        Molecular Plant Ecology

    ·        Molecular and Physiological Methods in Ecology and Nature Conservation

    ·        Mycological Interactions

    ·        Conservation: Science and Practice

    ·        Restauration Ecology

    ·        Animal Ecology

    ·        Expanded Plant Knowledge for Master Students

    ·        Forest and Conservation 

    Additionally you are allowed to choose one Advanced Module from the master´s degree course MSc "Molecular Biology of Cellular Systems"

  • Profile Modules

    During your studies you have the opportunity to obtain additional qualifications by taking profile modules in an amount of 12 ECTS-points. Those Profile Modules - offered as well by the department of biology as by other cooperating departments - will make  your curriculum unique.

    Profile Modules, offered by the department (pdf)(only available in German)

    Profile Modules of cooperating departments (only available in German)

  • Specialisation Modules

    Starting with the third semester you will deepen your knowledge in one discipline. From now on you are integrated in the research activities and an active member of your working group.

    Offered Specialisation Modules

    ·         Current Topics in Microbiology (Organismic Focus) - Specialisation

    ·         Biodiversity of Plants - Specialisation

    ·         Community Ecology and Multitrophic Interactions - Specialisation

    ·         Mycology - Specialisation

    ·         Conservation - Specialisation

    ·         Conservation Biology - Specialisation

    ·         Plant Ecology and Geobotany - Specialisation

    ·         Animal Ecology - Specialisation     

  • Master´s thesis

    The Master´s thesis completes your master´s degree course. In this final module you document and discuss the acquired results of  your Specialisation Module.

The Module Manual for MSc Biodiversity and Conservation

 In the Module Manual you will find the following information for each module:

  • content and qualification goals of the modules
  • teaching and learning methods/types of classes,
  • requirements for attending,
  • applicability of the module,
  • ECTS point requirements (e.g., passing exam),
  • workload and duration of the module.

By reading the Module Manuals you can find out what qualifications you will achieve in the modules and what will be expected of you even before the program begins and you will be able to avoid unpleasant surprises:

Please note:

This page applies to the most current examination regulations in Wintersemester 23/24. If you are studying according to an earlier or later examination regulation other provisions may apply. In that case please contact our advising service for further information.