Marine Ecology | Master in Biosciences
Are you fascinated by the mysteries of the ocean and eager to contribute to the conservation and sustainable use of our marine resources? Then our Master’s in Biosciences, specialising in Marine Ecology, could be the perfect fit for you!
Programme description
Life in the ocean is both fascinating and complex. In this specialisation, you will have the opportunity to explore how marine ecosystems function – from microscopic algae to large whales – and how climate change, pollution, fisheries and aquaculture influence biodiversity and the marine environment.
The programme provides you with a solid understanding of ecological processes, species interactions, environmental impacts and the conservation of marine resources. This knowledge is essential for addressing today’s environmental challenges and ensuring the sustainable management of our oceans in the future. Through a combination of theory, fieldwork, laboratory exercises and data modelling, you will delve into key topics such as population dynamics and genetics, biodiversity and ecological interactions, the influence of abiotic and biotic factors, climate and environmental change, and ecosystem processes from coastal areas to the open ocean.
Along the way, you will also develop important skills in scientific report writing, data processing, critical analysis and communication. These competencies are highly valued in the job market and will equip you to contribute meaningfully to the understanding, management and protection of marine ecosystems.
An active member of the research community
As a student, you become part of the ecology research group, a multidisciplinary environment dedicated to understanding how ecosystems respond to climate and environmental change. Here, you gain insight into research spanning marine and terrestrial ecosystems, fjord ecology and biodiversity, population genomics and evolutionary biology, nature management and environmental impact, as well as host–parasite interactions and species systematics.
Throughout the programme, you will have the opportunity to take part in ongoing projects, analyses and fieldwork, giving you valuable experience with real research processes. This practical approach enables you to develop skills and insights that are directly relevant both for further studies and for your future career.
Flexible academic choices You can tailor your study pathway by choosing elective modules across different specialisations. This allows you to combine marine biology with topics such as:
- genomics and bioinformatics
- sustainability and nature management
- climate and environmental change
- algae and other marine bioresources
This gives you a broader academic foundation and prepares you to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams in the future.
Modern facilities
As a student with us, you will have access to our top modern facilities in Noatun, the new faculty building at Bodø campus. The building is part of Nord University’s marine initiative, aimed at contributing new knowledge for the sustainable solutions the world needs. It is equipped with advanced laboratories and cutting-edge teaching spaces, ensuring excellent learning conditions and a unique study experience.
New research vessels Together with the Institute of Marine Research, Nord University owns the research vessel FF Prinsesse Ingrid Alexandra (PIA). The vessel is a modern, high‑tech research ship designed to support research and education related to the coastal areas of Nordland, Troms and Finnmark.
Nord University also owns a smaller research boat, Tanteyen II, acquired in 2025. It is based at the Mørkvedbukta Research Station. Both vessels play an important role in the university’s research and teaching, providing essential platforms for scientific cruises and field-based studies at sea.
The programme is a full‑time, two‑year course (120 ECTS credits) and is taught in English.
Career opportunities
With a completed Master’s degree in Biosciences specialising in Marine Ecology, you can work in research, advisory roles, environmental consultancy, or management in both the public and private sectors.
Teaching methods
Teaching consists of theoretical instruction, practical exercises, field investigations (excursions) and laboratory work.
A completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification (at least 180 ECTS credits) with a subject group/specialisation of a minimum of 80 ECTS credits in biosciences.
A minimum average grade of C is required.
Would you like to spend part of your studies abroad?
We encourage our students to go on exchange to one of our partner universities. A period abroad will give you valuable international experience while also giving you access to a wider range of courses and academic opportunities. For this programme, the second semester is the most suitable time for an exchange stay.
The application deadline for exchanges in the spring semester is 1 September. For more information, please contact our international coordinator, Jose de Pool.
The programme provides a foundation for applying to the PhD in Biosciences at Nord University, as well as doctoral programmes at other institutions in Norway or abroad.
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.
In addition to the semester fee and required course literature, students are expected to have access to a laptop with a microphone and webcam.
Students must also have their own lab coat for courses that include laboratory exercises.
Some elective modules may involve additional costs, up to a maximum of NOK 3,000.
Tuition fees:
The government has proposed removing the requirement that tuition fees must be at least cost-covering.
The Ministry aims for the change to take effect from 1 August 2026. Current rates will apply until a new bill is passed.
The planned rates for 2026/2027 are:
- NOK 60,000 for humanities, social sciences, and economics/administrative subjects
- NOK 85,000 for natural sciences, technology, health, social work and sports, teacher education, and performing arts and media studies
