Master's Programme in Polar Landscapes and Quaternary Climate
This Master's programme develops students’ expertise in climate and environmental change, geomorphology, and glaciology, with a focus on polar and alpine landscapes. It provides advanced skills in climate reconstruction, landscape analysis, and research methods through fieldwork, laboratory sessions, and direct engagement with cutting-edge research.
See a video from Kebnekaise's south peak:
As environmental changes accelerate, understanding the dynamics of polar and alpine landscapes becomes increasingly important. Our Master's Programme offers the knowledge and analytical tools necessary to study these regions, which are highly sensitive to climate variations.
Focusing on the Quaternary period, you will explore how polar and alpine landscapes have evolved over time and the role of climate in shaping these environments. You will gain expertise in methods for reconstructing past climates and analyzing how natural and human influences drive environmental changes, particularly in glacial and periglacial landscapes.
This programme not only equips you with specialized knowledge but also prepares you for diverse career paths. Whether you pursue work in environmental consultancy, government agencies, or research institutions, the skills you acquire will be highly valued. Our graduates have gone on to work in various sectors and continue their studies in doctoral programmes both in Sweden and internationally.
If you are interested in understanding the complex relationships between climate and landscape, and want to contribute to addressing today's environmental challenges, this program offers a strong foundation for your future.
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Programme overview
The two-year Master’s Programme consists of 120 credits:
45 credits mandatory advanced courses
15–45 credits optional courses
30–60 credits Master thesis (mandatory)In the first semester, you will have two foundational courses that provide both subject-specific knowledge and essential research skills. The first course is an introductory course tailored to give you a deep understanding of climate and environmental change, geomorphology, and glaciology. This course begins with an immersive field excursion to northern Scandinavia, where you will explore Quaternary climate history, glacial and periglacial landforms, and sub-Arctic and Arctic environments. This hands-on experience allows you to directly observe the landscapes and processes that are central to the program, grounding your theoretical learning in real-world contexts.
The second course is in generic skills and competencies, shared with students from all four of our Master's programmes. This interdisciplinary course is designed to equip you with the tools needed to conduct scientific research from theory to practice. You will develop critical skills in research design, data collection, and analysis, and you will be introduced to key methods of scientific communication, including presentation techniques, scientific writing, and journal publication. The course emphasizes practical experience, with hands-on projects that prepare you to confidently undertake research in your chosen field.
Throughout the second and third semesters, you will engage in advanced courses that reflect the internationally recognized research strengths of our department. Topics include earth system modelling, glaciology, palaeoglaciology, and permafrost studies, with a wide range of optional courses available in areas such as GIS, remote sensing, and hydrology. Fieldwork and laboratory sessions form an integral part of the learning experience, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.
The programme is taught by active researchers, ensuring that you are constantly connected to cutting-edge research and emerging developments in the field. This direct involvement with ongoing research will give you a competitive edge, preparing you for both academic and professional careers in areas related to climate, environmental science, and landscape dynamics.
Year 1
Autumn term
Polar Landscapes and Reconstructions of Quaternary Climate and Environment, 15 credits (GE7097)
Scientific Methods in Physical Geography, 15 credits (GE7095)
Spring term
Optional courses (period A-B), 15 credits
Glacial Environments, 15 credits (GE7098)
Year 2
During the second year you will write a Master thesis (degree project). Depending on the extent of the thesis 30, 45 or 60 credits, you may take optional courses: Degree Project in Physical Geography and Quaternary Geology 30/45/60 credits (GE9009).
Students admitted Autumn 2024 or earlier follow the following programme structure for Year 1:
GE7079 Polar and Alpine Environments and Climate Change, 15 credits
GE7073 Methods in Physical Geography and Quaternary Geology, 15 credits
Elective courses, 22,5 credits and Optional courses, 7,5 credits
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How to apply
All applications must be sent through www.universityadmissions.se. January 15 2025 – last date to apply for all applicants.
Required supporting documentation
In addition to the documents required by www.universityadmissions.se, the following documents must accompany all applications to this master’s programme:
- Personal letter/Letter of interest (maximum one page). Please indicate how you fulfill the specific requirements for the programme in the letter.
Further information: Frequently asked questions about admissions - CV
- Brief summary of the grading system of your university (if other than ECTS).
If you are still studying for your Bachelor degree when making the admission application, then please write in the personal letter which courses and credits are yet to be completed.
- Personal letter/Letter of interest (maximum one page). Please indicate how you fulfill the specific requirements for the programme in the letter.
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Contact
We are several persons working with study administration and study counselling. Please contact the Student office for questions concerning course information, registration, schedule, literature lists and exams. If you have questions concerning credit transfer, admission, eligibility or need study advice please contact the Study counsellor.
Programme responsible
Qiong Zhang
E-mail: qiong.zhang@natgeo.su.seStudy counsellor, student office and other contacts
Contact
