Master in Ecology and Environmental Studies
Prešov, Slovakia
Bachelor's degree
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
EUR 3,000 / per year *
STUDY FORMAT
* application fee: 30 EUR
Key Summary
About: Shape the future with the interdisciplinary Master in Ecology and Environmental Studies at the University of Prešov. You learn ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, sustainable landscape management, research methods, field and lab techniques, ecological modelling, and human–nature interactions. The programme emphasizes evidence-based, interdisciplinary research and includes internships and research placements that prepare you to design studies and lead teams.
Career Outcomes: Graduates access career opportunities as landscape ecologists, environmental inspectors, conservation specialists, hydrologists, botanists, microbiologists, environmental consultants, policy advisors, and researchers, working in public administration, ministries, municipal authorities, NGOs, private firms, monitoring services, protected-area management, education, or continuing to doctoral study.
Shape the future of our planet with our interdisciplinary Master’s program in Ecology and Environmental Studies. Deepen your expertise in ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable landscape management while mastering advanced scientific research methods and practical environmental solutions.
This program provides comprehensive knowledge of ecological theory and applied practice. You will learn to design and conduct field and laboratory research, apply ecological models, and manage complex interactions between humans and nature.
Through internships and research placements in public administration, the private sector, and NGOs, you will gain hands-on experience that prepares you to work independently and lead ecological teams in diverse settings.
Graduates become skilled professionals in ecosystem management, nature and landscape protection, and conservation policy. You will be equipped to assess ecological impacts, manage protected areas, and contribute to national and international research initiatives. This program also prepares you for senior roles in environmental institutions or for pursuing an academic career.
At our department, we study ecology at all scales — from individuals and species to ecosystems and the biosphere. We believe scientific knowledge is key to addressing today’s global environmental challenges. That’s why we emphasise evidence-based approaches, interdisciplinary thinking, and active student participation in cutting-edge research from day one.
The master's degree in Ecology and Environmental Studies is a two-year program (120 ECTS). The study plan maintains a natural science focus on courses.
Graduates will demonstrate an in-depth and specialised understanding of ecosystems, ecosystem services, and interdisciplinary connections within applied environmental sciences. They will be able to apply advanced theoretical and methodological knowledge to assess, manage, and mitigate environmental challenges.
Their expertise will include critical evaluation of ecological risks, environmental policy tools, and sustainable development practices. Graduates will also possess the flexibility to adapt their knowledge and skills to evolving professional and legislative demands in the field of ecology and environmental protection.
Knowledge Acquired
Advanced theories, terminology, and research methodology in ecology and environmental studies:
- Ecosystem functioning and ecosystem services
- Scientific research methods and interdisciplinary knowledge application
- Nature and landscape protection management
- Evaluation of environmental risks, accidents, and damages
- Environmental policy, law, economics, and management tools
- Assessment of environmental and health impacts
- Remediation and recycling technologies
- Life cycle assessment and ecological footprint analysis
- Continual professional development aligned with market and legal requirements
Skills acquired
Advanced research and analytical capabilities for real-world environmental challenges
- Conduct basic and applied ecological research
- Identify environmental risks and propose prevention and remediation strategies
- Design and manage complex environmental projects
- Contribute to biodiversity, landscape, and environmental policy documents
- Apply correct procedures in environmental planning, monitoring, and control
- Utilise legal, managerial, and audit tools effectively
- Use simulation models and software tools for risk and trend analysis
- Develop and evaluate environmental education and training programs
- Present research findings in a professional and scientifically accurate manner
- Demonstrate innovation, creativity, and foresight in both known and new contexts
Competences acquired
Demonstrate innovation, creativity, and foresight in both known and new contexts
- Make independent decisions in solving complex ecological issues
- Engage in and lead expert discussions on a variety of environmental topics
- Implement research methods and apply results in practice
- Evaluate environmental components and propose optimisation strategies
- Predict ecological disturbances and recommend remediation approaches
- Pursue lifelong learning and continued academic or professional growth
- Professional application in:
- Nature conservation and environmental management bodies
- Higher-level government and local administration
- Private companies and NGOs in the environmental sector
- Scientific and academic institutions
- Expert roles in environmental impact assessment, public health, waste management, and landscape protection
- Environmental facility operation and management organisations
At the University of Prešov, outstanding academic performance is rewarded through a merit-based scholarship system. Up to 10% of full-time Bachelor's and Master's degree students may receive a motivational scholarship every semester, based on previous exceptional academic achievements.
Additionally, students may apply for motivational scholarships for extraordinary achievements in sports, arts, or research. These opportunities aim to support and recognise students who not only excel academically but also contribute to university life through talent and innovation.
National Scholarship Scheme
Slovakia invites talented students from around the world to pursue their academic goals through the National Scholarship Scheme – Studying in Slovakia Rewards Me. This program offers a scholarship of €5,000 per academic year for two years of full-time Master’s studies at selected public higher education institutions, including the University of Prešov. Master’s program in Management is eligible under this scheme, as it falls within the national Smart Specialisation Strategy (SK RIS3 2021+).
Every year, up to 45 scholarships are awarded at the Master’s level based solely on Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores. To be considered, applicants must achieve a minimum SAT score of 1100. No other test or substitution is accepted.
Graduates of the Master's Study Program in Ecology and Environmental Studies will be equipped with advanced knowledge and specialised skills applicable to a wide range of careers in the public and private sectors, non-governmental organisations, and research or academic institutions.
They can pursue professional roles such as landscape ecologists, geoecologists, environmental inspectors, or specialists in areas such as nature conservation, air quality protection, waste management, forest and watercourse protection, and environmental impact assessment. Their expertise is also valuable in positions such as biologists, botanists, zoologists, hydrologists, or microbiologists specialising in soil microbiology and ecology of microorganisms.
Graduates may work in industrial environmental management, public health and safety, scientific research, or environmental policy development. Opportunities exist within environmental regulatory agencies, ministries, municipal authorities, environmental monitoring services, and nature protection institutions.
They may also contribute to education and training initiatives, sustainability consulting, or continue in doctoral studies and academic careers. It is important to emphasise that several of our graduates have found employment at the Ministry of the Environment.
- You are not just a number - Many of the study programmes are designed for small groups of students. Teachers can approach you individually and help you with your personal needs and objectives.
- Quality education, affordable prices - Cost of living and studying in the City of Prešov is affordable. With a little effort, there is no need to worry about not being able to pay the bills.
- Theory applied in practice - Study programmes at the University usually provide opportunities to participate in practical training or to visit locations relevant to your study field.
- High quality dormitories - University of Prešov is a leading Slovak university in terms of quality of student accomodation. Most of the dormitories have undergone full reconstruction in recent years.
- Plenty of extracurricular activities - As a student of the University, you may use the swimming pool, athletic stadium, and library and you may join student clubs, media, or participate in spiritual and psychohygienic activites.
- The city is calm and green - The University is located in a city with a population under 100,000 inhabitants. It is surrounded by great natural sites and significant historical landmarks, such as castles, historical monuments and national parks.
- Become part of something new - English study programmes at the University of Prešov are newly implemented. We are interested in your feedback so that we can refine and innovate the programmes continuously and accordingly.
- Participate in public events - There are many social events you can take part in during your study. Join a sports league, attend a concert or a debate without leaving the University campus. The City of Prešov is a true UNIVERSITY CITY!
- Study at one of the best HEIs - THe University of Prešov is one of those universities which combines great HEI history going back to the 17th century and modern educational and research facilities. You can be part of its unique story.
- Study and obtain scholarships - Study hard! If you are in top 10% of all university students based on final grades, you will be awarded a merit scholarship. In addition, Erasmus+ is very strong at the University, so your chances for great scholarships are in your hands.