Geography University of Bern

Overview

The Master program in Geography at the University of Bern consists of 120 ECTS credits. These credits can be earned with a broad range of courses in all fields of geography, whereby students expand their theoretical and methodological knowledge (preferably in the first semester) through coursework for a total of 60 ECTS credits. The Master in Geography at the University of Bern is a "Research Master," which means the master thesis plays a very important role. The thesis therefore accounts for 60 ECTS credits and is written over a period not exceeding 18 months. 

This master thesis is embedded in the research activities carried out in individual research units. In other words, students select a topic from one of the research units and also choose an advisor who specializes in the chosen topic. The master thesis supplements the broad-based knowledge gained through coursework by allowing students to specialize in an area of fundamental or applied research of their choice. Field work can be carried out in Switzerland or abroad. We recommend that students choose an interesting topic for their master thesis when they begin their Master program. This ensures they will have enough time to write the thesis and attend those courses that support their work on the topic.

Most graduates of the Master program end up working in the following areas:

• Spatial analysis, spatial planning and consulting (e.g. location analyses, policy consulting, analysis of natural dangers), nature conservation and environmental protection, local, regional and nationwide planning; federal, cantonal and municipal agencies, private engineering bureaus etc.

• Professional training; teaching at secondary schools, teaching and research at universities

• Information and documentation: Geoinformatics, media, public relations

• Development projects: Tourism, regional development, resource utilization (positions in Switzerland and/or in developing countries)