A new English-language Master’s programme will be launched at Friedrich Schiller University Jena in the winter semester 2026/27. The programme, ?Biogeoscience of the Anthropocene?, focuses on the impacts of human activity on the environment and examines how biological, geological, physical and chemical processes interact. Applications have been open since 1 April 2026.

Focus on environmental processes in the ?critical zone?

The new programme combines modern environmental research with innovative methods from geosciences, biology, chemistry and data science. Over the course of four semesters, students will learn to investigate and analyse complex environmental processes using experimental, analytical and data-driven approaches.

Particular emphasis is placed on the so-called ?critical zone?. This encompasses the uppermost part of the Earth’s crust, soils, groundwater systems and the aeration zone—that is, the part of the soil in which pore spaces are not completely filled with water.

Students will engage with, among other topics:

• the concept of the Anthropocene and how land-use change, urbanisation and climate tipping points affect the stability of the Earth system,
• the role of microbes in key geochemical cycles and greenhouse gas fluxes, as well as their genetic adaptability to environmental stressors,
• methods of mathematical modelling to describe and calculate fluid flows, particularly of water, and
• the stability and dynamics of elements in natural systems as a basis for developing remediation strategies.

Laboratory and fieldwork from the outset

From the very beginning, students will take part in numerous practical courses, including laboratory and fieldwork. These provide the essential skills required to quantitatively capture, model and scientifically evaluate complex environmental processes and their interactions. In addition, students have a wide range of opportunities to specialise and develop an individual profile of expertise.

Diverse career prospects

Thanks to the interdisciplinary nature of the programme, graduates will have a wide range of career opportunities. They will be well qualified for roles in research, industry, policy and public administration. Potential fields include environmental analytics, groundwater and soil protection, contaminated land remediation, ecosystem management, environmental education and policy advisory.

A programme for students with broad interests in natural and environmental sciences

The programme is aimed at students who already hold a Bachelor’s degree in a geoscience or environmental science discipline. Applicants should also demonstrate a broad interest in natural and environmental sciences, as well as experience with scientific methods.

?With our new English-language programme, we aim to attract international applicants as well as German students who wish to prepare specifically for a career in a global working environment,? says Prof. Dr Kai Uwe Totsche, who played a key role in developing the programme.

Programme adviser Dr Dirk Merten adds: ?This programme is unique in Germany because it considers processes both at the Earth’s surface and below ground. This so-called ‘critical zone’ is often overlooked, yet it is crucial for understanding the complex interactions within the Earth system and for developing sustainable solutions to environmental and climate challenges.?

Programme overview

Degree: Master of Science
Standard duration: 4 semesters
Credits (ECTS): 120
Language of instruction: English
Start: Winter semester

More information & online application: /6510/m-sc-biogeoscience-of-the-anthropocene?de