Our ability to use nature sustainably is and will continue to be a decisive factor in ensuring the future of human populations. This means using natural resources and managing land in a way that safeguards biodiversity and healthy ecosystems, as recognised by the Brundtland Commission some 25 years ago.
To meet these challenges, we need people with knowledge and skills in the field of research and management, who are capable of finding and effectively communicating solutions. By providing deep insight into the issues and knowledge about the tools for managing and using nature sustainably, this programme prepares you for career in nature management and research.
Knowledge
Upon successful completion of the programme, the candidate- has general knowledge and an overview of terrestrial ecosystems and their functioning, with a focus on ecosystems in the northern regions.
- has advanced understanding of Norwegian/Scandinavian ecosystems and processes and the anthropogenic impact
- has practical knowledge of relevant scientific research and methods in terrestrial ecosystems, functioning of metapopulations in fragmented landscapes, species knowledge including identification of biodiversity vulnerable hotspots.
Skills
Upon successful completion of the programme, the candidate- has the necessary skills to critically review and implement academic information related to management of terrestrial ecosystems.
- is able to use relevant reference tools and present knowledge orally and in written form.
- is skilled in different aspects of terrestrial ecosystem research, and be able to independently design and carry out scientific studies or tools for management operations.
General competence
Upon successful completion of the programme, the candidate:- is able to communicate main issues, challenges and solutions in terrestrial ecological research and land area management and conservation of biodiversity.
- is able to apply basic research methods and academic communication skill of relevance for the completion of the student’s master project.
- is able to exchange views and experiences with others involved in terrestrial ecosystem research and contribute to the progress and debates in this research field and application in nature management.
The multidisciplinary 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.
Terrestrial Ecology and Nature Management students should take recommended courses during their first semester based on their background in terrestrial ecology, nature management, or interests. In their second semester, students are encouraged to participate in exchange programs or internships with partner universities and institutions, many of which specialize in terrestrial ecology or nature management.
1st semester BI300F Scientific Communication and Research Methods - 10 ECTS - C
KJ301F Laboratory Safety Master - 0 ECTS - C
BIO5020 Landscape Ecology and Nature Management - 10 ECTS - S
BIO5009 Research Seminars in Bioscience - 5 ECTS - E
BI308F Individual Curriculum - 5 ECTS - E2nd semester INT5002 Exchange abroad - 30 ECTS
or
GEO5020 Remote Sensing in Nature Management - 10 ECTS - S
BI313F Ecosystem Resilience - 5 ECTS - S
Elective courses - 15 ECTS3rd and 4th semester BI309F Master's Thesis in Terrestrial Ecology and Nature Management - 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