Marine ecology represents a wide range of research areas, from microscopic algae to large whales, and provides insight into ecosystems and biodiversity, and the impact of pollution and climate change on our oceans. If you are fascinated by the mysteries of the sea and want to contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of our marine resources, the specialization in marine ecology is for you.
Field investigations and experiments, modeling and laboratory analyses, as well as statistical analyses, are research methods used in ecological studies. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical exercises, students will immerse themselves in population dynamics, the influence of abiotic and biotic factors on marine organisms, and the complex interaction between species and their environment.
Life underwater is fascinating but challenging to study. When you choose to specialize in marine ecology, you will take part in a research team that researches the marine environment from different perspectives. As the impact of human activity on marine ecosystems increases, the study of ecosystems’ function and interaction of organisms within these systems becomes increasingly important. Students of marine ecology will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to understand the ecological processes that shape marine systems, to meet the pressing environmental challenges of today and contribute to the sustainable management of our marine resources in the future.
Knowledge
Upon successful completion of the programme, the candidate:- has advanced knowledge of marine ecosystems and their functioning.
- has advanced understanding of the dynamics of marine ecosystem processes and the interaction with environmental drivers and anthropogenic impacts.
- has thorough knowledge of relevant scientific methods in marine research.
- can apply knowledge to new areas within marine ecology.
Skills
Upon successful completion of the programme, the candidate:- can retrieve, analyse and critically review scholarly information in the field of marine ecology.
- can use scientific information and theories to independently work on scientific problems.
- can use relevant research methods in marine ecology to design and carry out a limited research project under supervision.
General competence
Upon successful completion of the programme, the candidate:- can communicate about the main academic issues and challenges in marine ecological research with specialists and the general public.
- can carry out advanced assignments and projects by applying the knowledge and skills in marine ecology.
- can communicate independent work carried out in the research project and masters language as well as terminology of the field of marine ecology.
- can contribute to the progress and debates in marine ecology.
The multidiscplinary research of our group has an emphasis on new technology to enhance the understanding of ecosystem responses to environmental changes.
The common theme is to relate traditional ecological observations to genetics at the molecular level.
Topics of interest include climate and anthropogenic impacts, for example of exploitation strategies, on the genetic development and population dynamics in terrestrial and marine organisms.
Organisms studied include various birds and terrestrial mammals, vascular plants, mosses and lichens, marine fish and benthic species, zooplankton and seagrass and other key species in terrestrial and marine habitats. Food web and other inter-relationships between these species are of interest.
The group provides insights into key biological processes, distribution dynamics of species and habitats, as well as anthropogenic impacts on biodiversity in coastal zones and terrestrial ecosystems.
1st semester BI300F Scientific Communication and Research Methods - 10 ECTS - C
KJ301F Laboratory Safety Master - 0 ECTS - C
BIO5008 Environmental Pollution and Ecotoxicology - 10 ECTS - S
BIO5021 Marine Research Methods at Sea - 5 ECTS - S
BI308F Individual Curriculum - 5 ECTS - E2nd semester INT5002 Exchange abroad - 30 ECTS
or
BI312F Biophysical Interactions - 10 ECTS - S
BI313F Ecosystem Resilience - 5 ECTS - S
BIO5007 Aquatic Biodiversity and Biogeography - 5 ECTS - S
Elective courses - 10 ECTS3rd and 4th semester BI309F Master's Thesis in Marine Ecology - 60 ECTS (C) C: Compulsary courses, S: Specialisation courses, E: Elective courses The table above illustrates a proposed study plan, and you are free to composite your study plan differently as long as you fulfill the requirements below.
Master's degree composition:
- 10 ECTS method course
- 20 ECTS spesialisation courses (min.)
- 30 ECTS elective courses/specialiazation
- Up to 20 ECTS may be on advanced BA level
- 60 ECTS master's thesis
120 ECTS in total