Earth Sciences
Why Earth Sciences?
The Master’s degree programme in Earth Sciences at VU University Amsterdam encompasses the entire field of Earth Sciences. It focuses on our fields of expertise in research, including tectonics, paleo-climatology, sedimentology, quaternary geology and isotope-geochemistry. Programme components include a work placement, an orientation phase at a museum or science journal, or participation in a research project complete with fieldwork, laboratory work and/or computer modelling.
Current research topics
Fossil reefs
How do the three-dimensional build-up and porosity of a reef influence its efficiency in the storage of hydrocarbons? Study recent reefs to better understand fossil ones!
Wetter and warmer?
River dynamics are governed by climate changes. What can we learn from studying and reconstructing ancient river patterns?
Moonwalk
In what ways can the moon give insights in the early evolution of our planet Earth?
Dirty business
How does contamination spread through the subsurface? Knowledge of soil composition, groundwater flow and microbiology are all elements that contribute to a better understanding of subsurface contamination.
Your profile
You pursue a degree in Earth Sciences because you want to understand how the Earth fits together as a system. Whether you are delving into geological history or examining present-day consequences, understanding System Earth is the key. There is a great need for scientists with these qualities in a society that can no longer take factors for granted like climate, safe drinking water, the availability of oil and gas or the stability of the ground upon which we live.
Your Bachelor’s degree has given you a good basic grounding in Earth Sciences. But the Master’s offers you the opportunity to specialize in a subject that really fascinates you. Plus the chance to complete an extensive graduation project involving fieldwork, laboratory research, computer simulations or a work placement with a company.
Further information
Events and activities (Dutch)/Events (English)*ma-voorlichting
Order/ download the brochure
Contact the Master's coordinator
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Language of instruction:
English
- Duration: 2 years
- Tuition fee: Information about tuition fees (collegegeld)
- Application deadline: 1 April for non-EU/EEA students; 1 April for EU and EEA students; 1 July for Dutch students from institutions other than VU University Amsterdam
- Start date: 1 September 2012
- Study type: Full-time
- Field of Interest: Natural Sciences
- Specializations: Solid Earth, Paleoclimate and Geo-ecosystems, Geoarchaeology - Landscape archaeology, Geoarchaeology – archaeometry, Applied Environmental Geosciences, Science Communication (taught in Dutch), Education (taught in Dutch)
