Study in Norway in English
Have you considered studying in Norway but you’re afraid that Norwegians don’t understand English? Two international students tell you why you don't have to worry.
Biology (Master's)
Biologists possess knowledge that is essential for solving many of the challenges found in environmental, social and economically sustainable development. It is necessary to understand how human-induced changes affect natural processes, both in the short- and long-term perspective.
- Duration
- 2 years
- Study places
- 53
- ECTS credits
- 120
- Start of study
- Autumn and spring
- Teaching language
- Norwegian and English
What will you learn?
As a Master’s student in Biology, you study important processes and typical patterns in ecosystems. We look at everything from the characteristics of flora and fauna in habitats, to biology, ecology and evolution in organisms, populations and communities.
You will research and learn more about the big questions within the field of biology, such as:
- How do life forms, patterns and processes develop?
- How does biodiversity arise and evolve?
- How can we measure environmental toxins and microplastics in the ocean?
- How do we conserve and use the oceans sustainably?
- How can we achieve a more sustainable aquaculture industry?
You can choose between the following specializations:
- Biodiversity, Evolution and Ecology
- Microbiology
- Environmental toxicology
- Aquaculture biology
- Developmental Biology, Physiology and Nutrition
- Marine Biology, Fisheries Biology and Management
Student life
The life of a Master’s student in Biology is hectic and rewarding, and filled with activities such as
- Laboratory work
- Work field courses
- Trips on research vessels (if you choose marine specialisation)
- Lectures, active learning and seminars
We are Norway’s largest marine university, with academic education and research of high international quality, and with several world-class research environments.
Bergen’s location enables us to use nature as a classroom, and we emphasise practical exercises through data analysis, fieldwork and interactive discussions.
We create an environment where you as a student are a natural part of the research group, and the work environment is inclusive and informal. Many different nationalities work together, and English is normally the working language.
Biological Subject Committee (BFU) is the students’ own subject committee. They organise social activities.
Career
You can take many different career paths, in both the private and public sectors. You will be well-equipped to enter positions within research, education, industry and administration, and other important jobs in society.
You can work both centrally and regionally, for example, in environmental organisations and consultancies, and in governmental departments and directorates. You can also specialise in biological and environmental issues at research institutes and relevant industry enterprises, such as the growing aquaculture and seafood industry and the biotechnology sector.
Admission requirements and how to apply
Grade requirements: C (2.5)
Requires a minimum average grade of Norwegian grade C (2,5) or the equivalent, to be eligible for admission.
Students with citizenship from countries outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland must pay tuition fees. Some applicants may be exempted from this rule.
We are currently not able to receive applications from citizens from outside the European Union/EEA/EFTA
Follow these links to find the general entry requirements and guidelines on how to apply:
Citizens from within the European Union/EEA/EFTA (application deadline 1 March)
Nordic citizens and applicants residing in Norway (application deadline 15 April)
All applicants with citizenship from outside the EU/EEA must pay tuition fees.
You will also have to meet the programme-specific entry requirements.
Please note that the specialisations Marine Biology and Fisheries Biology and Management only have admission in the autumn, while the other specialisations have admission in the autumn and supplementary admission in the spring (application deadline 1 November), if not all place have been filled in the autumn admission. The spring admission does not apply to applicants from outside the European Union/EEA/EFTA.
Submission deadline: 15.04.2024
Teaching language
Teaching language: Norwegian and English
Study structure
The programme covers two academic years (four semesters) and starts in the autumn.
In the first year, you take courses totalling 60 ECTS. The courses, timetables and study plans will depend on the specialisation you choose. You take two compulsory courses in research methods in the first semester: BIO300A Academic Writing (5 ECTS) and BIO300B Biostatistics (5 ECTS). In the second year, you work on your Master’s thesis, also worth 60 ECTS. With an entire year set aside to work on the Master’s thesis, you have the opportunity to focus solely on your independent research work.
Semester 1 (autumn):
Academic Writing (BIO300A, 5 ECTS)
Biostatistics (BIO300B, 5 ECTS)
Elective course (10 ECTS)
Elective course (10 ECTS)
Semester 2 (spring):
Elective course (10 ECTS)
Elective course (10 ECTS)
Elective course (10 ECTS)
Semesters 3 and 4:
Master’s thesis in biology (60 ECTS)
You choose a Master’s topic from the available Master’s projects in biology, or you find a topic that suits you in consultation with your supervisor.
Fields of study
Possible specializations for this programme.
Study abroad
There are several options for students who want to go on an exchange stay abroad. You can conduct laboratory work, participate in a summer school at the University Centre in Svalbard, or take part in another exchange activity.
Further studies
After completing your Master’s degree, you can apply for a paid position as a doctoral student (PhD) within biology and related topics, both in Norway and abroad.
Questions about the study?
Phone number: +47 55 58 30 30
E-mail: studie@bio.uib.no
Study plan
A study plan is a formal document between you as a student and the University of Bergen. The study plan must provide a clear framework for the study, describe the learning goals you will achieve and how the study is structured.
