The master studies in Bioscience gives research based specialization in one of seven possible directions. Your studies may aim at analyzing the contextual complexity of larger ecosystems; in alpine regions, oceans or lakes, and in the polar areas, and how these are influenced by seasonal and climate-induced variation, or by human activities. The master studies may also aim at understanding molecular, biochemical, and physiological mechanisms at the subcellular, cellular, or organismal level, and these mechanisms are regulated in different species.

The programme has seven options for specialization

Biodiversity and systematics
Cell biology, physiologi and neuroscience
Ecology and evolution
Genetics and developmental biology
Marine biology and limnology
Molecular biology and biochemistry
Toxicology and environmental science

Studies in ecology and evolution is about understanding both large and small ecosystems on earth, and the species living within these, change over time.

How do different cod stocks change with fishing regimes, management, and climate changes? Do birds change behavior when their natural habitats are regulated by humans? Knowledge of the interrelationships in nature, previously and today, is important to help conserve the world’s ecosystems and the living conditions for the future.

The programme option Ecology and Evolution is a good choice if you are interested in the following topics:

the biological consequences of climate changes and other man-made environmental changes
how natural selection shapes organisms to survive and reproduce under variable conditions
how the environment influences the distribution of different species, population dynamics, and evolution
how we can map and conserve biological and genetic diversity on earth

Structurele componenten

Thesis/Dissertation

Laboratory training

Practical/Field work

Research Project

Learning outcomes

Knowledge aims

You will be able to understand biological processes that take place in and between cells and in and between organisms in nature. This understanding will make you capable of describing and explaining both biological processes and their importance for living organisms.
You will acquire knowledge of the most important research methods that are in use today to develop our knowledge in biological disciplines.

Competence aims

You will be able to formulate research hypotheses, choose and adapt relevant methods, and perform systematic studies leading to their acceptance or rejection
You will be able to work independently in collecting and analyzing biological data, for example during field work or in the laboratory.
You will be able to read scientific publications and develop a critical view of literature describing scientific topics.
You will be able to give oral and written representations of scientific topics and research data.

Generic skills

You will be able to reflect critically upon central ethical and scientific questions in relation to your own work and the work of others.
You will develop your scientific curiosity and achieve understanding and respect for scientific values as openness, precision, accountability and the importance of distinguishing between knowledge and opinions.
You will be able to identify and use methods well suited to solve a scientific question related to your own work, and to the work of others.
You will be able to communicate adequately scientific issues both to colleagues and to the general public.