The Master of Science in Geoanthropology is a respected graduate program offered by the Eurasia Institute of Earth Sciences at Istanbul Technical University. Designed for students who want to explore human–environment interactions from both scientific and social perspectives, this full-time international program combines earth sciences, anthropology, ecology, archaeology and computational methods. Students study how societies and environments affect each other over time, learning to analyze ecological, geographical and historical data — preparing them for roles in research, environmental management or academic fields. The program is structured across four semesters and admits students in the fall semester.
Located in Istanbul, a city where natural environment and urban development meet, this master’s program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and real-world relevance. With a curriculum that includes both theoretical courses and field or lab-based modules, students develop strong skills in analysis, modeling, history, and environmental anthropology. The program reflects ITU’s commitment to cross-disciplinary science, offering a unique opportunity for those who want to study how humans and nature have interacted through ages — from past civilizations to modern environmental challenges.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Fall semester only
- Area of study: Geoanthropology — Earth Sciences, Anthropology, Ecology, Archaeology, Human–Environment Interactions
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Earth & Human Sciences
- Theory and Practice in Anthropology
- Complex Adaptive Systems
- Ecology, Society and Sustainable Development
- Research Methods & Environmental Science Tools
Semester 2 – Human–Environment Relations & Historical Ecology
- Science in Anthropology / Social–Environmental Methods
- Cultural Ecology or Environmental Anthropology / Archaeology Module
- Earth Sciences Module (e.g. Paleoenvironmental Reconstruction / Geology or Remote Sensing)
- Elective Course
Semester 3 – Advanced Geoanthropology & Modeling
- Landscape Archaeology / Human-Environment Archaeology or Anthropological Theory Module
- Modeling in Social and Ecological Systems or Environmental Modeling
- Human–Environment Interaction Studies
- Elective Course
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis
- Independent Research Thesis in Geoanthropology
- Thesis Writing & Defense
- Seminar & Presentation of Research Findings
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can work in academic research, environmental agencies, heritage and conservation organizations, urban and regional planning offices, or governmental and non-governmental institutions dealing with environment and culture. They may become researchers in human–environment interaction, environmental policy advisors, heritage management specialists, conservation planners or sustainability consultants. Others may work in archaeology, environmental impact assessment, ecological planning, historical ecology, or education and cultural heritage sectors. With interdisciplinary training combining social science and earth science, graduates also have the foundation to pursue doctoral studies or international research collaborations.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Geoanthropology master’s program means entering a unique, interdisciplinary field that studies both nature and human societies — past, present and future. Students build a deep understanding of how humans affect their environment and vice versa, using scientific, historical and anthropological tools. The program fosters critical thinking, analytical skills and holistic perspective — ideal for those interested in sustainability, environment, history, culture and research. It helps students see the connections between people, places and ecological systems in a clear and meaningful way.
The program’s strength lies in combining earth sciences, anthropology, ecology and computational methods, enabling students to tackle complex problems like climate change, cultural heritage, societal adaptation and environmental challenges. With access to ITU’s academic resources, labs and expert faculty, the program offers a rare opportunity to engage in meaningful research that bridges nature and society. This integrated approach prepares graduates to work on real-world issues with both scientific understanding and cultural awareness.
Contact Information
İstanbul Technical University – Eurasia Institute of Earth Sciences
Ayazağa Campus, Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 285 61 08
Email: eies@itu.edu.tr
Department / Program Contact – Geoanthropology MSc
Ayazağa Campus, Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 285 61 08
Email: geoanthropology@itu.edu.tr
International Office – ITU
Ayazağa Campus, Istanbul, Türkiye
Tel: +90 212 285 71 12
Email: international@itu.edu.tr
