Terrestrial Ecology and Nature Management | Master in Biosciences
Are you curious about ecosystems and the sustainable use of nature? A specialisation in Terrestrial Ecology and Nature Management within the Master’s in Biosciences gives you knowledge for the future!
Programme description
Terrestrial ecology focuses on the interactions between organisms such as plants, animals, mosses and lichens, and the ecological processes that take place on land. It includes the study of various ecosystems – such as forests, mountains, tundra and cultural landscapes – their functions, and how global changes like climate change (e.g. altered temperature and precipitation), pollution and land use affect habitats, migration patterns and biological diversity.
In the Master’s in Biosciences with a specialisation in Terrestrial Ecology and Nature Management, we map biodiversity and genetic variation and analyse food webs where energy flows from producers to consumers and decomposers. This knowledge is essential for effective nature management and for developing sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.
As a student you will have access to our top modern facilities at Innocamp in Steinkjer.
The programme is a full‑time, two‑year course (120 ECTS credits).
Career opportunities
With a Master’s degree in Biosciences, specialising in Terrestrial Ecology and Nature Management, you can work in nature management, research, advisory roles and planning within the public, private or non‑profit sectors. Examples of relevant professions include nature manager, environmental adviser, land‑use planner, wildlife manager, teacher or researcher.
Teaching methods
Teaching consists of lectures, fieldwork, laboratory exercises, group work and other learning activities.
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 to doctoral programmes at other institutions in Norway or abroad.
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.
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 courses 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
