Global change, the increasing demand for scarce resources and the degradation and pollution of landscape, soil and water means that we need skilled professionals now more than ever. Professionals who understand the earth as a complex system and are able to direct our world into a more sustainable future.
The study programme
Complex geo-ecosystems comprised of landscape, soil, water and biological systems are severely affected by global change and human interaction. Detailed knowledge of geo-ecosystem processes is crucial for understanding our past, current and future environments. This means incorporating spatial and process studies of the dynamics and properties of landscapes, land use (change), land degradation and desertification, pollution, biogeochemical cycles and eutrophication (e.g. carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus), and climate.
In this Master's track you will learn to apply state-of-the-art methods (including advanced fieldwork, lab methods and geo-computation) to answer the prominent environmental questions we are faced with.
A science based approach towards societal issues
Understanding complex processes at the earth's surface
An integration of Earth Science to improve our environment
Face the grand challenges of global change
After graduation
Graduates of this track are well equipped to develop a successful career as an applied earth scientist. As a trained professional you will have excellent international career opportunities within or outside the sphere of Earth Sciences.
Is Geo-ecological Dynamics for you?
- I want to deepen my knowledge on complex geo-ecological systems and landscapes.
- I want to do research (fieldwork, laboratory work and/or computational methods) in an inspiring natural environment.
- I want to understand the dynamics of geo-ecological systems by integrating knowledge from various scales varying from molecules to earth system.
- I want to increase my knowledge on scientific advances in the dynamics of geo-ecological systems.
Then the track Geo-ecological Dynamics is your best choice!
Admission during COVID-19
Due to the Corona pandemic, the UvA will allow you to start your Master’s programme before having fully completed your Bachelor’s degree. Check the Application and Admission pages for more information.
Discover other Earth Science tracks
The Master's programme Earth Sciences offers specialisations in three tracks. Geo-ecological Dynamics is one of them. The other two tracks are: