Master's Programme in Ecology 120 credits

While studying

Develop skills in ecological thinking and scientific practice

Are you passionate about nature, ecosystems, and sustainability? This programme offers advanced training in ecological theory and practice, giving you the tools to work with real-world environmental challenges. It is ideal for students who want to specialize in nature conservation, northern ecosystems, and research in collaboration with leading scientists. In Umeå nature is literally on your doorstep. The campus is located near forests, lakes and waterways, ideal for excursions and fieldwork.

Through a combination of lectures, fieldwork, lab exercises, and independent projects, you will gain both scientific expertise and hands-on experience. The programme prepares you for a career in research, environmental agencies, or private sector companies focused on sustainability and ecological management. 

As a master’s student in Umeå, you will learn to work independently and critically, developing the ability to handle complex environmental questions and conduct scientific investigations. These skills are essential for both academic research and professional roles that require autonomy and analytical thinking. 

The programme provides a solid foundation in ecological science with a focus on boreal and Arctic ecosystems. You will gain the capacity to analyze ecological problems, carry out investigations, and interpret biological data – skills that are vital in fields like nature conservation, climate adaptation, and biodiversity management. 

Nature conservation profile with flexible course choices

If you wish to select a profile in nature conservation you can choose to take the course Nature conservation. This will give you the opportunity to focus on legislation, species and habitat management, and the practical application of ecological knowledge in public and private sectors. 

A close connection to research and real-world ecosystems

The programme is closely tied to the department's ongoing ecological research, much of which is focused on northern ecosystems, such as boreal forests, wetlands, and Arctic tundra. Field-based and lab-based activities provide insight into current ecological research practices, and students often work alongside researchers in ongoing projects. 

The programme received the highest rating in the latest quality review conducted by the Swedish Higher Education Authority – proof of its academic excellence and strong research integration. 

Choose your thesis topic and expand your studies

In addition to core and elective ecology courses, you can take up to 45 ECTS in other subjects to broaden your academic profile. These may include: 

• Earth Science
• Physical Geography
• Environmental Science
• Geoecology
• Geographical Information Systems (GIS) 

You can also choose to take a project course or internship in close collaboration with a research group or an external partner, providing excellent opportunities for applied learning and networking. 

In the second year, you will complete your master's thesis, which can be either 30 or 60 ECTS, depending on your academic goals. This is your chance to dive deep into a subject of interest and potentially contribute to ongoing research. 

Courses within the programme

Year 1

• Forest Ecology or Aquatic Ecosystems + Aquatic Ecosystem Ecology
• Analysis of Field Data
• Ecological Dynamics or Molecular Ecology and Evolution
• Ecosystem Management (mandatory for specialisation in Ecosystem management)

Year 2

• Courses free of choice, for example
  • Arctic Ecosystems
  • Limnology
  • Global Change Science
  • Geographical Information System (GIS)
  • Soil and Water – field methods
• Thesis project

Future and career opportunities

Where can a Master´s degree in Ecology take you?

A master’s degree in ecology opens doors to a wide range of professional opportunities in both public authorities and private companies. Graduates often work with environmental analysis, sustainability consulting, conservation planning, and ecological monitoring. 

Typical employers include:

• Government agencies (e.g., environmental boards, municipalities)
• Environmental NGOs
• Private environmental consulting firms
• Research institutions and universities 

You will be well-prepared for advanced roles in ecological planning, biodiversity assessment, and environmental policy work. The nature conservation profile also gives you a competitive edge for positions that require expertise in environmental law and protected area management. 

A strong foundation for research and further studies

Many students from the programme go on to pursue PhD studies in ecology or related fields. The master in Ecology provides the research training and scientific thinking needed for a career in academia. 

If you wish to continue your education, you can take additional advanced courses or apply for doctoral programmes in Sweden or abroad. 

Programme director

Micael Jonsson

Associate professor

Email

+46 90 786 69 23

Read more about Micael Jonsson