University of Tromsø

What you'll study

The MSc Biology programme is research-focused and typically comprises advanced coursework, specialised electives and an independent master's thesis. Students follow a 120 ECTS structure where roughly half the workload is dedicated to a supervised research project and thesis, and the remainder to taught modules and project work.

• Core topics: advanced ecological theory, population and community ecology, evolutionary biology, conservation biology, and ecosystem functioning.
• Methods and techniques: molecular and cellular methods, population genetics, bioinformatics, statistics and experimental design, microscopy, and advanced laboratory practice.
• Marine and Arctic specialisms: marine ecology, fisheries biology, polar ecology, cryospheric processes and adaptations to extreme environments; extensive fieldwork opportunities in fjords, coastal zones and Arctic landscapes.
• Optional modules: environmental monitoring, ecotoxicology, landscape ecology, restoration ecology, remote sensing and GIS, and science communication depending on available electives and supervision.
• Research training: advanced seminars, journal clubs, teaching practice, grant writing and data management; the programme emphasises independent research culminating in a substantial thesis under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant bachelor's degree in biology, marine biology, ecology, biotechnology or a closely related natural sciences discipline, normally with documented university-level credits in core subjects such as cell biology, genetics, ecology and statistics. Candidates may need to demonstrate sufficient academic preparation for specialised modules, and some supervisors expect prior laboratory or field experience.

• Degree requirement: recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject or equivalent qualification.
• Academic preparation: completion of foundational courses in biology and quantitative methods; applicants lacking specific prerequisites may be advised to take compensatory courses.
• Language: proficiency in English is required for international applicants; accepted proof may include recognised test scores or previous university-level instruction in English.
• Supporting materials: academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, a personal statement outlining research interests, and references; applicants intending to pursue a research track are encouraged to contact potential supervisors in advance.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Master in Biology programme are prepared for a range of careers across research, public and private sectors. Many continue to doctoral studies, while others move into applied roles where biological expertise is essential.

• Academic and industrial research positions, including PhD programmes.
• Environmental consultancy, impact assessment and environmental monitoring.
• Fisheries and marine resource management, including roles in national and regional agencies.
• Conservation organisations and non-governmental organisations working on biodiversity, restoration and protected area management.
• Biotechnology, laboratories and analytical services that require molecular and ecological skills.
• Science communication, education and policy advisory roles related to environmental and Arctic issues.

Why study at University of Tromsø

The University of Tromsø (UiT) is uniquely placed for biological research in Arctic and sub-Arctic environments. Students benefit from close links with nationally and internationally recognised research institutes, access to diverse field sites, modern laboratory facilities and active research groups in marine and Arctic biology.

• Arctic research environment: proximity to fjords, islands and Arctic ecosystems provides exceptional opportunities for fieldwork and applied research on cold-climate biology.
• Collaborative networks: strong collaborations with research centres and agencies offer access to large-scale projects, specialised instrumentation and interdisciplinary expertise.
• Supervision and facilities: opportunities to work with experienced supervisors across molecular, ecological and marine disciplines, and to use well-equipped laboratories and research vessels.
• International outlook: the programme attracts students and researchers from many countries, fostering an international learning environment and preparing graduates for global careers in biology.