Water & Coastal Management (M.Sc.)
University of Oldenburg, Germany
Master of Science in Water and Coastal Management
University of Oldenburg
Environmental Science & Coastal Management
Program Overview: Water and Coastal Management M.Sc.
The Master of Science in Water and Coastal Management at the University of Oldenburg is a unique double-degree program offered jointly with the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. Students graduate with two Master's degrees: an M.Sc. in Water and Coastal Management from Oldenburg and an M.Sc. in Environmental and Infrastructure Planning from Groningen.
This interdisciplinary program trains you to address the complex challenges of managing coastal zones, river catchments, and marine resources in a sustainable way. The curriculum integrates environmental sciences, socioeconomics, and spatial sciences, preparing you for a career at the intersection of science, policy, and practice.
The first two semesters are completed at the University of Oldenburg in Germany, where you study the marine environment and sustainable management. The third and fourth semesters take place at the University of Groningen, focusing on spatial science, water management, and environmental planning, culminating in your Master's thesis.
Key Program Highlights
- Double degree from two leading European universities: University of Oldenburg (Germany) and University of Groningen (Netherlands)
- Interdisciplinary curriculum combining environmental science, socioeconomics, and spatial planning
- International study experience across two countries with diverse research environments
- Strong practical orientation with case studies, fieldwork, and expert-led seminars
Curriculum and Modules
The M.Sc. Water and Coastal Management curriculum is divided into four phases: introduction, initial scientific essentials, specialisation, and the Master's thesis. The program comprises compulsory, elective, and optional compulsory modules across both universities, totalling 120 ECTS credits over four semesters.
Case Study in Water and Coastal Management
12 ECTSA compulsory module spanning the first and second semesters at Oldenburg, providing hands-on experience with real-world coastal and water management challenges through interdisciplinary teamwork.
Marine Environmental Sciences
6 ECTSCovers the scientific foundations of marine ecosystems, coastal processes, and oceanographic principles essential for understanding environmental dynamics in coastal zones.
Socioeconomics of Resource Management
6 ECTSExplores the socio-economic dimensions of sustainability and resource management, including stakeholder analysis, governance frameworks, and economic valuation of ecosystem services.
Coastal Management and Spatial Planning
6 ECTSFocuses on integrated coastal zone management strategies, spatial planning methodologies, and the legal and regulatory frameworks governing coastal areas.
Environmental and Infrastructure Planning
5 ECTSA compulsory module at the University of Groningen covering advanced concepts in environmental planning, infrastructure development, and sustainable land-use strategies.
Master's Thesis
20 ECTSAn independent research project completed during the fourth semester at the University of Groningen, demonstrating your ability to conduct scientific research and address complex problems in water and coastal management.
Elective Specialisation Areas
Admission Requirements
Admission to the M.Sc. Water and Coastal Management program requires a relevant academic background in environmental or natural sciences. As a double-degree program, applicants must meet the entry criteria of both the University of Oldenburg and the University of Groningen. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on your eligibility and application process.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeA completed Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in a specialist or interdisciplinary, environmental science-oriented program
- Relevant CourseworkPrior study units in Natural Sciences, Economics, and/or geographical-spatial planning
- Minimum CreditsAt least 180 ECTS credits or equivalent from a recognized institution
- Academic PerformanceGood academic standing in your undergraduate degree; contact Uni4Edu for specific GPA requirements
- German LanguageGerman language skills are not required for admission to this program
English Language Requirements
- CEFR LevelMinimum B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 6.0 (or equivalent); contact Uni4Edu for exact requirements
- TOEFLMinimum score of 80 iBT (or equivalent); contact Uni4Edu for exact requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
International students pursuing the M.Sc. Water and Coastal Management can access a range of scholarships and funding options. Germany's low-tuition education system, combined with dedicated funding programs, makes studying at the University of Oldenburg financially accessible. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized scholarship guidance.
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
Approximately EUR 934 per month plus allowancesThe German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers fully funded scholarships for international Master's students, covering living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance. These are merit-based and highly competitive.
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
EUR 300 per monthA national scholarship program co-funded by the German government and private sponsors, awarded to high-achieving students regardless of nationality. It supports students for at least two semesters based on academic merit and social engagement.
Erasmus+ Funding Support
Varies by home country and mobility typeAs a double-degree program involving mobility between Germany and the Netherlands, eligible EU and associated-country students may receive Erasmus+ mobility grants to support their study period at the University of Groningen.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects and Opportunities
Graduates of the M.Sc. Water and Coastal Management are well-prepared for careers in environmental management, coastal planning, and sustainability. The double-degree qualification from two leading European universities provides a strong competitive advantage in the international job market, with opportunities in government agencies, consultancy firms, research institutes, and international organizations.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg is a publicly funded research university in Lower Saxony, Germany, recognized for its strengths in environmental and marine sciences. The university is particularly noted for its research in oceanography and renewable energy, making it an ideal setting for the Water and Coastal Management program.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Oceanography | US News Global | #76 |
| Environment / Ecology | US News Global | Top 500 |
| Natural Sciences | Nature Index | #561 |
| Health Sciences | Nature Index | #611 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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