Master's Programme in Earth Science 120 credits
About the programme
Within the master's programme in Earth Science you will study natural earth processes, climate change and the impact of human influences such as natural resources and environmental disruption. Impact on earth processes leads to substantial changes in the environment. You will develop awareness and in-depth knowledge of environmental changes over years to millennia in different types of environments.
Study close to ongoing research
Both theory and field work
Develop analytical skills and research approach
While studying
Master’s in Earth Science – combining theory and practical experience
Are you interested in understanding the fundamental processes shaping our planet and how they impact climate, ecosystems, and human societies? The Master’s Programme offers an advanced education in geoscience, equipping you with the skills needed to analyze environmental changes, assess natural resources, and contribute to sustainable solutions.
You will consolidate your theoretical knowledge of Earth Sciences through experiments and fieldwork in the unique boreal and Arctic environments of northern Sweden. As a master’s student, you will develop critical analytical skills, the ability to tackle complex environmental challenges, and an independent research approach. These skills will prepare you for careers requiring strong problem-solving abilities and scientific expertise.
A flexible and broad Earth Science education
In addition to mandatory courses, the programme offers a wide range of elective courses where you can deepen your knowledge in earth science or broaden your skills in related areas. Examples of elective courses:
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS) – Analyzing spatial data for environmental research
- Sustainability Science – Exploring sustainable resource management and environmental policies
- Global Change Science - Learning about the transformations in the Earth system in the context of the Anthropocene
A research-connected programme with high quality standards
The programme has been awarded the highest rating in the Swedish Higher Education Authority’s latest quality review. This highlights the programme’s strong academic foundation and close connection to cutting-edge research.
The teaching is conducted in close collaboration with research, ensuring that you are exposed to the latest developments in Earth Sciences. All courses at the advanced level are taught in English, making the programme accessible to international students and preparing graduates for the global job market.
Master’s Thesis in Earth Science
The final thesis project allows you to specialize in a chosen area within Earth Sciences, conducting independent research under faculty supervision. Depending on your academic and career goals, you can choose between a 30 ECTS or 60 ECTS thesis. The project includes collecting of your own data usually by field work in the region.
Scholarships to apply for
Citizens of countries outside of the EU, EEA and Switzerland normally have to pay application and tuition fees for education at Swedish universities. However, there are several scholarships you can apply for to cover these costs, for example from the Swedish Institute:
Read more about SI scholarships for master's studies
Read more about SI scholarship Pioneering women in STEM
Courses within the programme
Year 1
- Aquatic Ecosystems, 7,5 credits
- Aquatic biogeochemistry, 7,5 credits
- Analysis of field data, 15 credits
- Analysis of Environmental Changes - focus: Archives, 15 credits
- Terrestrial biogeochemistry, 15 credits
Year 2
- Elective courses, 30 credits, examples:
- Global Change Science, 15 hp
- Soil and water – field methods, 15 hp
- Geographical information system, 15 hp
- Thesis work, 30 credits or 60 credits
Future and career opportunities
After completing a geoscience degree, you will be well-prepared for careers in environmental analysis, climate research, and natural resource management. The programme provides strong qualifications for positions in both the public and private sectors, including governmental agencies, environmental consulting firms, and research institutions.
Common jobs for graduates
- Geospatial analysis and GIS applications
- Climate change adaptation and risk assessment
- Water resource management and hydrology
- Natural disaster monitoring and mitigation
- Environmental policy and planning
- Administrative Officer at county boards, municipalities, and government agencies – Working with environmental policy and natural resource management
- Environmental Consultant in private industry and mining companies – Conducting environmental impact assessments and sustainability planning
- Geoscientist in research institutes – Studying climate change, earth materials, and natural resource use
- GIS Analyst – Using spatial data to analyze environmental and geographical trends
- PhD and research in academia or in the private sector.
Programme director
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Film about the programme
Study biogeochemical processes on a long time frame and put environmental puzzle pieces together.
Voices about the programme
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Always expect the unexpected – from Erasmus to doctoral studies
Alumni
The Erasmus exchange year was just going to be an adventure abroad but Demian Hauptmann liked Umeå University and came back for his Master’s.
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Viktor digs deeper into water issues
Alumni
"Earth scientists have it generally easier to get jobs than biologists, especially if you also know water issues" says Viktor Gydemo.
Frequently asked questions
What can you do with an Earth Science degree?
An Earth Sciences degree prepares you for careers in environmental research, geospatial analysis, sustainability consulting, and governmental policymaking. Graduates work as environmental consultants, GIS specialists, hydrologists, geologists, and climate analysts, among other roles.
What does a geoscience education include?
A geoscience education combines theoretical studies and practical components such as field studies, laboratory work, and environmental data analysis. You will learn to understand and analyze geoscientific processes and how they impact ecosystems and communities.
Why should I pursue a master’s degree when I already have a bachelor's?
While some employers may not require a master’s in Earth Science for entry-level positions, earning a higher degree provides long-term career benefits that go beyond immediate job requirements. Many companies prioritize short-term hiring needs, but as industries evolve, specialized expertise becomes increasingly valuable. With a master's degree, you have the opportunity to advance in your career and achieve a higher income more quickly.