The master's programme in Ecology and Ecosystems emphasizes understanding of ecosystem processes and the connection between biodiversity and the functionality of ecosystems. It addresses fundamental problems in ecology from a holistic perspective, covering various marine, freshwater, and terrestrial ecosystems. The programme combines a range of methodologies, including field surveys and lab experiments, to prepare students for interdisciplinary research and ecological challenges.
Students study the biological controls and dimensions of ecosystems, combining life sciences with chemical, statistical, and geographical methodologies. Topics include biodiversity, ecosystem research, and data analysis with advanced techniques.
The program is organized into four semesters, consisting of compulsory modules and a Master’s thesis. Students participate in joint courses in the first semester before specializing in specific ecological areas. A thesis and oral defense complete the degree.
Graduates acquire competencies in research methodologies, ecological problem-solving, and decision-making in ecological contexts. They gain skills applicable to various roles in research, administration, and consultancy.
Periods can differ for EU/EEA and non-EU applicants. Always confirm on the official site before applying.
Winter 2026/27
No tuition
EU/EEA students, within the standard study period (plus the ~€25 ÖH student union fee per semester).
€727 / semester
Non-EU / third-country rate. Always confirm on the official site.
€ 25,20 ÖH-Beitrag plus gegebenenfalls anfallende Studiengebühren im Umfang von € 363,36 bzw. € 726,72
Third-country (non-EU/EEA) applicants generally need to have their prior qualifications legalised and translated for the admission application. Exact rules depend on the country that issued each document — always confirm with the university's admissions office.
Program-specific items — a CV, letter of motivation, an entrance exam (e.g. GMAT, GRE, SAT) or a portfolio — vary by degree. Check this program's requirements above and its official page.
The level of legalisation your certificates need depends on your country of origin:
Apostille
If your country is part of the Hague Apostille Convention, an Apostille from the competent authority of the issuing country is sufficient.
No legalisation
A small number of countries have a bilateral agreement with Austria and need no further legalisation.
Full diplomatic legalisation
For all other countries: the full chain — pre-certification by the issuing country's authorities (e.g. Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs), then legalisation by the competent Austrian representation (embassy/consulate).
Translations are usually done after legalisation. Check the required order with the issuing authorities and the Austrian representation.
After admission: proof of sufficient funds, health insurance and the student residence permit are part of the visa process — not university admission. We cover those in the guides.
Founded in 1365, one of the oldest and largest universities in the German-speaking world.
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