Shape the future of our planet with our interdisciplinary Master’s program in Ecology and Environmental Studies. Deepen your expertise in ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable landscape management while mastering advanced scientific research methods and practical environmental solutions.
This program provides comprehensive knowledge of ecological theory and applied practice. You will learn to design and conduct field and laboratory research, apply ecological models, and manage complex interactions between humans and nature.
Through internships and research placements in public administration, the private sector, and NGOs, you will gain hands-on experience that prepares you to work independently and lead ecological teams in diverse settings.
Graduates become skilled professionals in ecosystem management, nature and landscape protection, and conservation policy. You will be equipped to assess ecological impacts, manage protected areas, and contribute to national and international research initiatives. This program also prepares you for senior roles in environmental institutions or for pursuing an academic career.
At our department, we study ecology at all scales — from individuals and species to ecosystems and the biosphere. We believe scientific knowledge is key to addressing today’s global environmental challenges. That’s why we emphasize evidence-based approaches, interdisciplinary thinking, and active student participation in cutting-edge research from day one.

The master's degree in Ecology and Environmental Studies is a two-year program (120 ECTS). The study plan maintains a natural science focus courses.

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Graduates will demonstrate an in-depth and specialized understanding of ecosystems, ecosystem services, and interdisciplinary connections within applied environmental sciences. They will be able to apply advanced theoretical and methodological knowledge to assess, manage, and mitigate environmental challenges. Their expertise will include critical evaluation of ecological risks, environmental policy tools, and sustainable development practices. Graduates will also possess the flexibility to adapt their knowledge and skills to evolving professional and legislative demands in the field of ecology and environmental protection.

Knowledge Acquired:

Advanced theories, terminology, and research methodology in ecology and environmental studies:

• Ecosystem functioning and ecosystem services
• Scientific research methods and interdisciplinary knowledge application
• Nature and landscape protection management
• Evaluation of environmental risks, accidents, and damages
• Environmental policy, law, economics, and management tools
• Assessment of environmental and health impacts
• Remediation and recycling technologies
• Life cycle assessment and ecological footprint analysis
• Continual professional development aligned with market and legal requirements

Skills acquired:

Advanced research and analytical capabilities for real-world environmental challenges

• Conduct basic and applied ecological research
• Identify environmental risks and propose prevention and remediation strategies
• Design and manage complex environmental projects
• Contribute to biodiversity, landscape, and environmental policy documents
• Apply correct procedures in environmental planning, monitoring, and control
• Utilize legal, managerial, and audit tools effectively
• Use simulation models and software tools for risk and trend analysis
• Develop and evaluate environmental education and training programs
• Present research findings in a professional and scientifically accurate manner
• Demonstrate innovation, creativity, and foresight in both known and new contexts

Competences acquired:

Demonstrate innovation, creativity, and foresight in both known and new contexts

• Make independent decisions in solving complex ecological issues
• Engage in and lead expert discussions on a variety of environmental topics
• Implement research methods and apply results in practice
• Evaluate environmental components and propose optimization strategies
• Predict ecological disturbances and recommend remediation approaches
• Pursue lifelong learning and continued academic or professional growth
• Professional application in:
  • Nature conservation and environmental management bodies
  • Higher-level government and local administration
  • Private companies and NGOs in the environmental sector
  • Scientific and academic institutions
  • Expert roles in environmental impact assessment, public health, waste management, and landscape protection
  • Environmental facility operation and management organizations

Graduates of the Master Study Program in Ecology and Environmental Studies will be equipped with advanced knowledge and specialized skills applicable to a wide range of careers in the public and private sectors, non-governmental organizations, and research or academic institutions.

They can pursue professional roles such as landscape ecologists, geoecologists, environmental inspectors, or specialists in areas such as nature conservation, air quality protection, waste management, forest and watercourse protection, and environmental impact assessment. Their expertise is also valuable in positions such as biologists, botanists, zoologists, hydrologists, or microbiologists specializing in soil microbiology and ecology of microorganisms.

Graduates may work in industrial environmental management, public health and safety, scientific research, or environmental policy development. Opportunities exist within environmental regulatory agencies, ministries, municipal authorities, environmental monitoring services, and nature protection institutions. They may also contribute to education and training initiatives, sustainability consulting, or continue in doctoral studies and academic careers. It is important to emphasize that several of our graduates have found employment at the Ministry of the Environment.

Entry requirements:

• bachelor (BA) degree in Ecology and Environmental Studies or related fields of natural science focus
• English language competence at B2 (CEFR level)
• no entrance examination

Admission procedure:

• pay the application fee of €50 (the confirmation of payment must be attached to the application)
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• fill in and submit the application form
• print the application form, sign it and send it to the Faculty address with the required application documents
• Address: Prešovská univerzita v Prešove, Dekanát Fakulty humanitných a prírodných vied, Ul. 17. novembra 1, 081 16 Prešov, Slovakia

At the University of Prešov, outstanding academic performance is rewarded through a merit-based scholarship system. Up to 10% of full-time Bachelor's and Master's degree students may receive a motivational scholarship every semester, based on previous exceptional academic achievements.

Additionally, students may apply for motivational scholarships for extraordinary achievements in sports, arts, or research. These opportunities aim to support and recognize students who not only excel academically but also contribute to university life through talent and innovation.

 

National Scholarship Scheme

Slovakia invites talented students from around the world to pursue their academic goals through the National Scholarship Scheme – Studying in Slovakia Rewards Me. This program offers a scholarship of €5,000 per academic year for two years of full-time Master’s studies at selected public higher education institutions, including the University of Prešov. Master’s program in Management is eligible under this scheme, as it falls within the national Smart Specialisation Strategy (SK RIS3 2021+).

Every year, up to 45 scholarships are awarded at the Master’s level based solely on Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores. To be considered, applicants must achieve a minimum SAT score of 1100. No other test or substitution is accepted.