The Master of Science (MSc) in “Biological Oceanography” is a four-semester programme. It provides knowledge and skills in a number of disciplines that address various areas of the global ocean as a complex system. The curriculum is focused on biology, and it imparts knowledge in chemistry, geology, physics and mathematics.
The MSc programme at GEOMAR is a four-semester programme, designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to make a smooth transition into a career in oceanography. In the first semester, students gain a broad understanding of the major oceanographic disciplines, including biology, physics, and chemistry. The course "Doing Science" introduces students to the fundamental principles of scientific inquiry, preparing them for independent research and critical thinking. In the second semester, students can opt for a specialisation in either biogeochemistry or ecology & evolution within the main practical course and a seminar/lecture course on current topics. They also gain in-depth knowledge in the laboratory, and can further broaden their scope by choosing courses worth five credit points from other departments at the university. By the third semester, students will have focused their academic interest in a research group and acquire the skills needed to conduct independent research for their theses. Students write a thesis proposal and present it to their peers. Additionally, students take the compulsory class in biological modelling and broaden their scope and explore career opportunities through internships. The fourth semester is devoted to practical research and will culminate in the submission of a written thesis. Upon completion of the programme, students are awarded 120 ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer System), of which 30 credits are allocated to the Master's thesis.
Course details verified 10 Sep 2026 — intakes, entry requirements and course facts · official source
Intakes & deadlines
Winter semester
Dates confirmed for your profile
Open
Most universities admit on a rolling basis — we confirm the exact application deadline for your profile, free.
Entry to the programme requires a completed Bachelor's degree with a biological focus. Equivalent degrees from other countries (with a major focus on biological disciplines equivalent to 60 ECTS the field of biology) will be accepted.
We confirm the exact costs and the scholarships you qualify for at Christian-Albrechts-University zu Kiel — free, for your profile. Need funding? Check your education-loan eligibility.
Master of Science in Biological Oceanography — FAQs
5 questions
No tuition fee. Checked against the university's own fees page. We confirm the current fee and the scholarships you qualify for — free.
The main intake is Winter semester. Most universities admit on a rolling basis — we confirm the exact deadline for your profile, free.
Entry to the programme requires a completed Bachelor's degree with a biological focus. Equivalent degrees from other countries (with a major focus on biological disciplines equivalent to 60 ECTS the field of biology) will be accepted. English: E.G. Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced TOEFL iBT (before 2026): 90 Reading: 24 Listening: 22 Speaking: 25 Writing: 24 IELTS Academic: 6.5.
The programme runs about 24 months full-time.
Yes — shortlisting, SOP, LOR, Resume, application, scholarships and visa guidance are all free. We're paid by partner universities, not by you.
Apply to Master of Science in Biological Oceanography — free help
A counsellor calls you back during office hours — 9am to 8pm IST, Mon to Sat. We are closed right now, so your request is first in line when we reopen.
A senior Vibedu counsellor
Study-abroad expert
Optional — so a counsellor can send your shortlist and documents in writing.
