Master of Science (MSc) in Earth Sciences

The Master of Science in Earth Sciences offers you a multidisciplinary course combining fundamental sciences and practical applications, which will give you the tools you need to become a versatile key player in the transition to a sustainable future. The cross-cutting programme provides leading-edge knowledge in a wide range of skills from the deep Earth, the geobiosphere and climatology to geological risks, geoenergies and mineral resources. The interactive teaching combines lectures, practical work and a large number of excursions to natural sites in the Alps and elsewhere around the world. It is delivered by specialists in Earth and environmental sciences from the universities of Lausanne and Geneva, who provide a permanent link to developments at the forefront of research in the areas taught to ensure a modern approach to Earth Sciences. The new programme, which has been fundamentally reworked, comes into effect in the autumn semester of 2022.

Organiser
Lake Geneva School of Earth Sciences (Faculty of Sciences of the University of Geneva and Faculty of Geosciences and Environment of the University of Lausanne)

Degree awarded
Master of Science (MSc) in Geology

ECTS Crédits
120

Duration
4 semestres

Teaching language
English. Recommended level : C1. 

Admission requirements
The Bachelor of Science in Geosciences and Environment, subject area Geology, awarded by the University of Lausanne, or the Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences awarded by the University of Geneva provide direct, unconditional admission.

Another degree or academic title may be judged equivalent and give access to the Master’s degree course, with or without further condition.

Enrolment and final dates
The degree course begins in the autumn semester only.
Applications to be submitted before 30 April of each year to the Admissions Office of the University of Lausanne

Candidates needing a visa to study in Switzerland: 28 February

More information
Study plan
Timetables

Master’s studies in Earth Sciences provide the opportunity to acquire a wide range of cross-cutting skills, including oral and written communication, a critical mindset, the ability to analyse and summarise, carrying out a piece of original research and adopting a holistic approach, from observations and measurements in the field and/or laboratory through to their interpretation. These skills, combined with specialist knowledge, equip our students to pursue high-level careers after their studies in numerous sectors, including:

• Research and teaching (PhD thesis followed by an academic career in Switzerland or abroad)
• Applied geology services
• Environmental assessments
• Sourcing and management of natural resources
• Geoenergies
• Materials and geomaterials industry
• Geological risks and insurance
• Cantonal and federal administration
• Environmental and social NGOs