Master in Molecular Ecology (One Year)
Skövde, Sweden
Master degree
DURATION
1 year
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
15 Jan 2027
EARLIEST START DATE
30 Aug 2027
TUITION FEES
SEK 155,000 *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* firfirst installment: SEK 77,500 SEK (around 7000 EUR) | EU/EEA Citizens are not required to pay tuition fees
Key Summary
Would you like to answer ecological questions using molecular techniques? This unique master’s programme in Molecular Ecology will teach you how to do so while allowing you to combine ecology studies with molecular biology and bioinformatics. This new interdisciplinary field will provide you with several career opportunities.
Molecular ecology combines ecological data with molecular biological techniques to address ecological topics such as:
- Discover and characterize new species
- Measure the relationship between species and populations
- Track environmental toxins and diseases in different ecosystems
- Identify invasive species
- Identify genetic diversity within endangered species to develop conservation strategies.
Molecular ecology is an interdisciplinary master’s programme that combines ecology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. At the University of Skövde, we offer a one-year master’s programme in Molecular ecology, where fieldwork, advanced laboratory, and computer-based techniques are prominent parts of the studies.
The focus of your studies
Semester 1
The main focus of the first semester is scientific and laboratory knowledge in molecular biology and areas that contribute necessary methods for studies in molecular ecology. You will learn to plan, perform laboratory experiments, and interpret and analyse the generated data using bioinformatics and biostatistics. Laboratory techniques used include PCR, mutagenesis, cloning, qPCR and protein expression.
During the first semester, you will also be introduced to current research specialisations, theories, applications and scientific methods within molecular ecology, with specialisation in conservation biology and environmental monitoring.
Semester 2
The program is concluded with a degree project (30 credits) during the second semester. In this project you will solve a relevant research problem within molecular ecology, allowing you to combine your previously gained theoretical knowledge and practical laboratory skills. The degree project is performed individually and it can be carried out at a business, organization or educational institution, either in Sweden or abroad.
Molecular ecology is an international Master’s programme, and all courses included in the programme are conducted in English.
Semester 1 mainly focuses on providing the students with in-depth scientific and laboratory knowledge in molecular biology and areas that contribute necessary methods for studies in molecular ecology. The student learns to plan, perform laboratory experiments, and interpret and analyse the generated data. The course “Molecular ecology in conservation” introducesthe student to current research specialisations, theories, applications and scientific methods within molecular ecology with a
specialisation in conservation biology and environmental monitoring.
During the second semester, the students perform a master's degree thesis project.
The following courses are included in the programme:
- Data analysis for Life Science A1N, 5 credits
- Experimental Methods and Design in Bioscience A1N, 17.5 credits
- Molecular Ecology in Conservation Biology A1N, 7.5 credits
- Master's Degree Project in Bioscience A1E, 30 credits
Objectives for Bachelor's degree according to the Higher Education Ordinance
- Knowledge and understanding
- Competence and skills
- Judgement and approach
- Local objectives for the study programme at the University of Skövde
Opportunities for international studies
You will have the opportunity to carry out part of your degree project abroad.
Career opportunities
The recent development of new molecular techniques has revolutionized bioscience, leading to increased applications within the fields of conservation biology, ecology, evolution, agriculture and environmental monitoring.
After your studies, you can work in various academic, governmental, or private sector settings, for example at biotechnology companies and environmental consultant agencies. You can also continue with research at public- or private-sector research laboratories.
Opportunities for further studies
After completion of your degree, you can continue with third cycle (PhD) education.
When? Where? How?
Study period: 1 September 2025 - 7 June 2026Location: Skövde, CampusPace of study: 100%