Uppsala University

Overview

The Master’s Programme in Earth Science with a specialization in Hydrology and Hydrogeology at Uppsala University provides an in-depth exploration of water movement within the environment, emphasizing groundwater-surface water interactions and water quality processes. This programme equips students with the essential skills needed for careers in water resource management, environmental consulting, and research.

• Degree: Master’s Programme (MSc)
• Specialization: Hydrology & Hydrogeology
• Focus areas: Groundwater and surface-water processes, hydrochemistry, modelling, field methods, geoinformatics, and data analysis
• Delivery: On-campus (Sweden)
• Credits: Typically 120 ECTS for a full Master’s programme
• Language of instruction: English
• Application & start: Apply via Uppsala University’s admissions portal; start dates vary

What you'll study

This programme is structured around advanced courses in Earth science that enhance both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in hydrology and hydrogeology. Core topics generally cover hydrological and Earth-system processes, quantitative analysis, and approaches for investigating water quality and geoscience.

Example course components include:

• Dynamics of Earth Systems
• Applied Geoinformatics for Earth Sciences
• Exploration and Environmental Geophysics
• Hydrochemistry
• Climate Variations
• Statistics and Data Analysis Methods

Learning outcomes across the programme: Students will gain proficiency in modelling and interpreting hydrological systems, analyzing environmental and chemical data, and applying geoscientific methods to address real-world water and environmental issues.

Capstone / advanced work: The programme culminates in an advanced project, such as a thesis, where students synthesize their knowledge and methodologies to produce significant scientific work.

Entry requirements

Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an internationally recognized university, corresponding to a Swedish Kandidatexamen.

Additionally, candidates must fulfill one of the following credit distributions:

• 90 credits in Earth science and 15 credits in mathematics; or
• 90 credits in technology/engineering or physics and 30 credits in Earth science or environmental science.

Selection: Admission is based on a comprehensive evaluation of the quality and quantity of previous academic studies, accompanied by a statement of purpose.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for diverse career paths in fields related to water resources management, environmental consulting, and academic research. The skills acquired during the programme enable graduates to tackle contemporary challenges associated with water systems and environmental sustainability, making them valuable assets in various sectors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private industry.