Earth Sciences

Earth Scientists study the processes and cycles within and between the four spheres, atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and the geosphere by quantifying their magnitudes and rates in space and time. What is the influence of humankind on the Earth System in relation to natural processes? What can fluxes in the carbon cycle in the geological past, and in the present, tell us about the carbon cycle of the future?

Students are trained in fundamental knowledge and skills in the context of addressing the complex problems of our planet in today’s society. The three specializations, Geology and Geochemistry, Earth and Climate, and  Global Environmental Change and Policy offer a variety of courses from Mantle Properties and Landscape Dynamics to Climate Modelling and Environmental Policy. The first year consists mainly of compulsory courses, practicals and an excursion in one of the two years and is finished with an individual Research Project. The second year offers a variety of electives focused on advanced and more specialized topics and themes, like Planetary Science, Man and Climate and Geothermal Energy. The year is finished with the Master Thesis, which can include an internship.