International Programmes 2024/2025

Master of Science in Geophysics Master of Science in Geophysics

University of Münster • Münster

Degree
Master of Science in Geophysics
Teaching language
  • English
Languages

Courses are taught in English. The Master's thesis can be written in either English or German.

Programme duration
4 semesters
Beginning
Winter and summer semester
Application deadline

For the winter semester: beginning of May to 15 September
For the summer semester: middle of November to 15 March

Tuition fees per semester in EUR
None
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No
Joint degree / double degree programme
No
Description/content

The Master’s programme in Geophysics at the University of Münster is research-oriented and spans two years. It covers theoretical and applied concepts with an emphasis on the following fields:

  • Seismology
  • Geodynamics
  • Applied Geophysics

Students benefit from small classes, a supportive learning environment, and close interaction with leading scientists in their fields.

Unlike many other Master's programmes in Earth sciences and related fields, a strong focus lies on quantitative methods, techniques and theories deeply rooted in physics and mathematics. Therefore, a solid background in both fields is required.

Course organisation

During the first year, students receive in-depth training in Seismology, Applied Geophysics, and Geodynamics. In addition, they select additional courses from a large choice of physics, geoscience, and interdisciplinary topics. 

The second year is devoted to an independent research project carried out in one of the department's research groups under the supervision of leading scientists in their respective fields. The project is split into two parts: the module "Professional Specialisation and Project Design" in the third semester and the Master's thesis in the fourth semester.

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A Diploma supplement will be issued
Yes
Course-specific, integrated German language courses
No
Course-specific, integrated English language courses
No
Tuition fees per semester in EUR
None
Semester contribution

Students must pay a semester contribution fee of 317.48 EUR per semester. This includes a "semester ticket" covering public transportation in the greater Münster area and throughout Germany.

You can find more information here:
https://www.uni-muenster.de/studieninteressierte/en/einschreibung/semesterbeitrag.shtml

Costs of living

We recommend that students budget at least 900 EUR per month to cover personal expenses (accommodation, living expenses, health insurance).

Funding opportunities within the university
No
Academic admission requirements

A Bachelor's degree in geophysics, physics, mathematically oriented geosciences, or a closely related subject with a minimum grade of "C" according to ECTS

Credit points in an amount comparable to the Bachelor’s programme in geophysics offered at the University of Münster in the following fields: geophysics, physics and mathematics

Language requirements

Candidates must provide proof of English language skills at a B2 level (CEFR) or equivalent.

Application deadline

For the winter semester: beginning of May to 15 September
For the summer semester: middle of November to 15 March

Submit application to

Online Application

Possibility of finding part-time employment

For second-year students, several jobs as teaching assistants for Bachelor's courses or mentors to junior Bachelor's students are available. German language skills are required for teaching assistants. Small paid internships may be available. In addition, there is usually a large number of job offers for students in Münster.

Accommodation

As in all popular university cities in Germany, accommodation is in high demand and is not easy to find in Münster – but it’s not impossible either!

Please contact the International Office (Bachelor's and Master's students) or the CERes (doctoral candidates) of the university for advice. Please also note that the University of Münster (like most German public universities) does not have its own student halls of residence.

Support for international students and doctoral candidates
  • Tutors
  • Specialist counselling

University of Münster

With about 43,000 students and 5,500 academics, the University of Münster is one of the largest universities in Germany. It enjoys an outstanding reputation in the region and far beyond for its excellent research opportunities, high-quality teaching and promotion of junior researchers. Fifteen faculties with 280 degree programmes and some 30 research centres comprise the institutional backbone of the university. Besides its academic opportunities, the University of Münster offers a wide and varied range of extracurricular activities. Pursue your interests by participating in student societies, university theatre, choirs, orchestras, bands, and sports courses. Additionally, make sure to visit the university's museums and gardens to further enrich your experience.

University location

Münster is located in north-west Germany, close to the border with the Netherlands. The city is a lively student town, famous for its bicycle-friendly atmosphere and student pubs. Of Münster's total population of approx. 319,400 inhabitants, over 62,800 are students at the different universities. Münster is a thriving centre of science and academia. It is a great place to live, learn and teach.

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