Mandatory courses are held in English. Students might choose elective modules in English or German.
The Master's thesis is to be written in English.
In the MSc programme Forest and Ecosystem Sciences (FES), students specialise in a field of their choice. Students can choose from one of the following three specialisation fields (study tracks):
The specialisations convey scientific content and methods as well as professional skills for subsequent professional activity. These skills comprise competences in problem solving, capacity for teamwork, project management know-how and interdisciplinary thinking and working.
The programme offers a research-based education in the field of forest and ecosystem sciences. It is for students interested in pursuing an international career in forestry, nature conservation, ecosystem research or with a development organisation.
Along with the formal coursework, students gain intercultural work and life experience by interacting with international colleagues and professors. Experience has shown that personal and professional contact established during this MSc programme is an excellent way to expand the student's professional network.
The MSc course is a two-year programme with a modular structure.
Students will complete a total of 120 credits. Of these credits, 90 credits will be earned by taking courses and 30 credits will be earned with the completion of the Master’s thesis.
Students can choose from the following three study tracks: Ecosystem Analysis and Modelling (EAM), Ecosystem Sciences (ES) or Tropical and International Forestry (TIF).
For more details on the modular structure of the single study tracks, please visit https://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/616875.html.
The Faculty of Forest Sciences and Forest Ecology offers a modern working environment. Apart from many well-equipped laboratories and great variety of research facilities (climate chamber, gene and molecular biological equipment, greenhouse, etc.), the faculty holds the largest library of forestry literature in Germany. During the programme, students will experience a variety of new and traditional teaching methods.
The faculty runs some blended learning projects and is developing e-learning modules constantly.
In addition to "traditional" lectures in an auditorium, students are often taught in smaller groups outside during excursions and practical courses.
Some modules are designed as seminars in which students are required to give a presentation on a specific topic; the presentation and topic will be discussed among the group.
Students can take an optional internship module. The four-week internship can be completed in a forestry-related institution or enterprise during the lecture breaks.
The fees are around 400 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket, which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as buses. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals are available at reduced prices at university canteens.
The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about 850 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age.
Students of the University of Göttingen receive discounts for cultural events. Meals and drinks are also available at reduced prices at all university canteens.
Scholarships and Funding for International Students
Germany scholarship: Deutschlandstipendium
Lower Saxony scholarship: Niedersachsenstipendium
To be considered for admission, the following requirements must be fulfilled:
We welcome applicants with relevant professional experience.
Please check our application platform.
Students may find a part-time jobs in local businesses or on campus, as long as their study performance is not affected. We do not recommend planning to fully finance your studies in Germany through a part-time job.
Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or visa. Non-EU students are subject to special regulations.
More information on student jobs in Germany can be found here.
A number of student jobs are also available at the university. They are announced on the following website: www.stellenwerk-goettingen.de.
Some proficiency in German may be indispensable to your job search. Non-EU students are permitted to work a maximum of 120 full days (240 half days) per year.
The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.
The Career Service of the university offers individual support for the job entry. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme.
The "Start Guides" project also offers assistance in developing and realising individual career perspectives in Germany.
If you are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The university supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts.
Start-up support
The tutors and the student adviser for international students are open to answering the students' questions regarding housing, enrolment procedure, health insurance, study programme and many aspects more.
International students should also be in contact with the Göttingen International Office.
Study Buddy Programme: part of the project Integration and Diversity at Göttingen University (InDiGU)
Foyer International: meetings and activities for all students
German courses during studies (free of charge)
University of Göttingen — Committed to Excellence
Founded in 1737, the University of Göttingen is a research-driven university of high international standing. It is renowned for its diverse range of academic disciplines, research-oriented teaching, and outstanding scientific environment in which more than 45 Nobel laureates have studied, taught, or pursued their research. With about 27,300 students — more than 18 percent of whom are international — and more than 206 degree programmes, the university is one of the largest in Germany.
Variety of study programmes
The University of Göttingen offers a vast variety of academic programmes for undergraduate and graduate studies. Internationally renowned expert researchers teach in more than 40 academic disciplines. More than 40 full-time undergraduate and graduate programmes are taught entirely in English. Five International Max-Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) prepare students for unique careers in scientific research. Additionally, a growing number of double degree programmes with prestigious international universities available.
Guidance, supervision, and study conditions
Students are given comprehensive advisory and supervisory support in all phases of their studies. Since advice and guidance are crucially important for the successful outcome of a university career, the University of Göttingen is constantly improving and extending its performance in this area.
Excellent library
The Göttingen State and University Library (SUB Göttingen) is one of Germany’s leading academic libraries, with holdings of over ten million books, journals, and other media. It offers a wide range of services to support study and research and plays a key role in numerous national and international projects focused on enhancing access to information and developing digital research infrastructures.
Alumni worldwide
As a member of Göttingen alumni, you will remain part of the international "Göttingen Family" even after your graduation. The alumni association connects alumni worldwide and keeps them informed about current developments at the university and in the city of Göttingen. Through online and offline events, workshops, career support and social projects, it offers numerous opportunities for networking, mentoring, and social commitment.
Göttingen — A Great Place to Live and Study
Göttingen, with a population of approximately 130,000, is a city where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly. Its beautifully preserved timber-framed houses in the historic city centre and the vibrant student population of the University of Göttingen — about 27,300 students — create a lively and welcoming atmosphere that’s hard to match.
The university’s departments and buildings are primarily located on two main campuses, all within easy walking or cycling distance. Student housing for around 4,700 individuals, along with excellent canteens operated by the student services organisation (Studierendenwerk), ensure high quality of life at a low cost.
The university maintains close collaboration with numerous non-university research institutions in Göttingen. Together, they form the Göttingen Campus—an alliance of leading research centres. This includes four Max Planck Institutes , the Göttingen Academy of Sciences and Humanities in Lower Saxony, the German Primate Centre (DPZ), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), and the University Medical Centre (UMG). This collaborative environment fosters openness and innovation, offering opportunities for students at all levels—Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD—to pursue fresh ideas alongside experienced researchers. Many scholars from these institutes also teach at the university, and joint professorial appointments help build strong links between the university and its campus partners. This unique structure reinforces Göttingen’s reputation as one of Germany’s most research-focused universities.
Located in the geographical centre of Germany and Europe, Göttingen enjoys excellent travel connections: Berlin, Hamburg, and Frankfurt are each just a two-hour train ride away. But you don’t need to leave the city to enjoy a break—Göttingen offers a wide range of recreational and cultural activities. The city is home to three theatres, a symphony orchestra, multiple cinemas, cafés, and pubs, providing plenty of opportunities to meet new people and relax. You can also get involved with the student union, which organises a variety of cultural and recreational events throughout the year.
For sports enthusiasts, Göttingen and the university offer a wealth of opportunities. The University Sports Centre (Zentrale Einrichtung für Sport und Gesundheit) is one of the largest in Germany, offering more than 150 different activities at very affordable prices. Facilities include an indoor pool, the RoXx climbing centre, the FIZ fitness studio, and several outdoor sports fields—ensuring something for everyone. You can find the full overview on the official UniSport website.
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