Biological Resources*

Sustainable use of natural resources

The world’s natural resources are limited and slowly being depleted, resulting in a growing demand for skilled specialists who can contribute to the repurposing of existing resources and the discovery of new ones.

The primary goal of Biological Resources M.Sc. is to enhance your understanding of soil, plant, animal and marine resources and inspire you, as a sustainability specialist, to devise new ways to make use of these resources, thus supporting the development of a bio-based economy. Over the course of your studies, you will acquire the expertise needed to recognise and utilise biological resources in terms of their economic potential, while also taking into consideration critical ecological and social constraints.

The degree programme combines the advanced study of the natural sciences with relevant interdisciplinary subjects such as engineering and socio-economics to impart to you the knowledge and the critical eye to evaluate the future potential of certain biological resources in a scientific manner. This expertise is crucial in countless real-world applications, for example in the development of ‘bio-based products’ such as bioenergy, biopackaging, bioplastic or new sources of food, to name a few.

Different forms of interactive learning, including applied research projects, excursions, lab and field work, provide further opportunities to acquire expert research skills, e.g. in conducting ecological fieldwork or analysing the components of plant-based biological resources in a laboratory environment.

Career Paths

Biological Resources M.Sc. places particular emphasis on acting as an interface to the bio-based economy. Close research cooperation with many companies in the Lower Rhine region affords you the unique chance to acquire valuable practical experience within the bioeconomy during your studies.

Graduates are skilled specialists qualified for a broad range of careers in:

Consultancy positions for government authorities, agencies and/or non-governmental organisations (NGOs), e.g. environmental protection agencies or related organisations
Key positions as a sustainability officer or natural conservation officer at national and multinational companies and organisations
Research and development positions in industry or at universities

Course content and qualification profile

The Master’s program Biological Resources aims to familiarize students with research and application areas of biological resources—including soil, plants, animals, and marine environments. The program emphasizes the relevance of these resources for a sustainable, bio-based economy and teaches students how to identify, evaluate, and utilize underused biological potentials. By integrating natural sciences, engineering, and bioeconomy concepts, the program equips students with the expertise needed to scientifically assess biological resources and their potential for developing bio-based products.

The curriculum is both research-oriented and application-focused, offering training in laboratory work, technical processing, field studies, and economic evaluation along the value chain. Graduates may continue their academic careers in universities or research institutions or enter professional fields within the bioeconomy—such as industry, governmental agencies, or non-profit organizations—working in research & development, project management, or consulting. Additionally, the program fosters ethical and social competencies that prepare graduates for leadership roles and civic engagement.

* The degree programmes offered are suitable for part-time study in accordance with Section 62a (2) HG NRW.