At the University of Hamburg, you can graduate as a Bachelor of Science either in geophysics or physical oceanography after a study period of 6 semesters. The combined course is strongly orientated on practical work and provides an education qualifying for a research-oriented job in this area as well as the basis for a further qualification in M. Sc. programs. Hamburg is the only place in Germany offering a combined B. Sc. study course in geophysics/phys. oceanography, which is, however, internationally a rather established combination at many renowned universities.

The B.Sc.-course consists of 6 semesters, the average amount of work per semester adds up to 30 credit points (about 20 contact hours per week with lectures). The course starts in the winter semester. During the first academic year introductory lectures are held and the students obtain the necessary basis in mathematics and physics. During the second academic year, apart from several internships including partical training at sea and one professional practical training, primarily subject-specific background topics essential for both disciplines (geophysics and oceanography) are covered. In the third academic year, further internships and in-depth courses (typically within the compulsory but optional subjects in geophysics and physical oceanography) are given, which means that the main part of specialisation into either geophysics or phys. oceanography takes place in the third year of studies. The thesis for obtaining the B.Sc.-degree (duration of 6 weeks) is written in the same year. The courses are divided into modules; students receive credit points for each module which will be acknowledged in case of changing program or to apply elsewhere.

In order to study at University Hamburg you need to have an A-level certificate (or an analogue high school certificate for international applicants). The course in geophysics/phys. ozeanography is physics-orientated, that means the education in the first academic year is nearly identical to the first year course in physics and e.g. meteorology. A sixth form/senior class basic knowledge of mathematics and physics is therefore quite helpful.

It is our aim to acquire about 40-45 beginners for our B.Sc. program each year. This means that our lectures and practicals are not overcrowded and the relation between supervisors and students is very well compared to other more populated programs. In order to support our students in mathematics and physics (these subjects can be rather time consuming) within the first academic year, we have launched a mentoring programme to help students which consists of a panel of collegiate tutors as well as scientific employees and professors.

In our bachelor survey you can get an overview about each module of the course of studies. In the description you receive information about the contents related to the individual modules. You may check out the subject-specific regulations. Last but not least, our University offers additinal information regarding the course of studies Bachelor in Geophysics/ Phys. Oceanography.