Ecosystem Services
The Master of Science in Ecosystem Services is an international graduate program offered by the Internationales Hochschulinstitut Zittau at Technische Universität Dresden. Designed for students with a Bachelor’s degree in natural sciences, environmental science, or economics, the program focuses on understanding, evaluating, and managing ecosystem services in social, economic, and ecological contexts. Students gain expertise in sustainable resource management, environmental economics, ecological assessment, and policy implementation, preparing them for advanced roles in research, consultancy, and environmental management.
Located in Zittau, the program combines academic rigor with practical training, offering fieldwork, interdisciplinary projects, and international networking opportunities. Taught entirely in English, it equips students with the skills to address global environmental challenges, foster sustainability, and implement evidence-based solutions in both public and private sectors. The course runs over four semesters and admits students exclusively in the winter semester.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Zittau
- Study Type: Graduate (part-time / full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Ecology, Environmental Science
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Ecosystem Services
- Introduction to Ecology and Environmental Science
- Principles of Ecosystem Services
- Environmental Economics Basics
- Data Collection & Field Methods
Semester 2 – Applied Methods & Modelling
- GIS and Remote Sensing for Ecosystem Analysis
- Quantitative Methods in Environmental Science
- Ecosystem Valuation and Policy Tools
- Collaborative Project I (case study or field project)
Semester 3 – Specialization & Industry Practice
- Advanced Ecosystem Modelling
- Environmental Impact Assessment
- Project Management & Stakeholder Engagement
- Collaborative Project II (industry-partnered or applied research project)
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
- Independent Research or Applied Thesis
- Production of a Final Report / Project Output
- Presentation & Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Ecosystem Services program are prepared for a wide range of roles in environmental management, sustainability, policy-making, and ecosystem assessment. Career paths include environmental consultant, ecosystem service analyst, sustainability manager, conservation planner, and research scientist. With Zittau’s strong network of environmental institutions and international partnerships, students gain excellent opportunities to connect with organizations, research centers, and global networks.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Master of Science in Ecosystem Services means joining a program that combines academic rigor with real-world application. The program provides students with access to renowned faculty, modern laboratories, and fieldwork opportunities in diverse ecosystems.
The program’s unique strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach, combining ecology, environmental science, and economics, along with its focus on applied research and sustainability practices. Students develop the analytical, practical, and collaborative skills needed to excel in a globally connected environmental sector.
Contact Information
Internationales Hochschulinstitut Zittau – Programme Contact
Markt 23, 02763
Zittau, Germany
Tel: +49 3583 612-4130
Email: master-ess@mailbox.tu-dresden.de
Technische Universität Dresden – Student Advisory Service
Fritz-Foerster-Bau, Mommsenstr. 6, 01069
Dresden, Germany
Tel: +49 351 463-42000
Fax: +49 351 463-42001
Email: studienberatung@tu-dresden.de
Technische Universität Dresden – International Office
Fritz-Foerster-Bau, Mommsenstr. 6, 01069
Dresden, Germany
Tel: +49 351 463-42000
Fax: +49 351 463-42002
Email: studium.international@tu-dresden.de
