General program information
This interdisciplinary, English-taught Master's program focuses on sustainable land use. It addresses pressing challenges and equips students with practical skills for shaping sustainable and just land use systems.
The program combines Agriculture and Nutrition Security, Materials and Resource Management, and Land Use Planning and Spatial Design - offering a truly interdisciplinary perspective not commonly found in Germany or neighboring countries.
Key focus areas include sustainable agriculture, circular resource use, climate resilience, spatial planning, and participatory governance.
Admission requirements
A Bachelor's degree in agricultural science, nutritional science/home economics, landscape planning, geography, environmental engineering, environmental sciences, applied biosciences, or a related field.
Work experience is not required, but relevant experience in sustainability or land-related fields can strengthen your application.
Minimum proficiency at B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Applicants with related professional experience or academic training may be considered. Please consult with the program coordinator for individual guidance.
Admission is competitive and based on academic performance, relevant experience, and motivation for joining the program.
Application process
- Applicants with foreign degree documents apply via uni-assist
- EU applicants with foreign degree documents apply via uni-assist
- Applicants with German degree documents apply directly via the Osnabr¨¹ck University of Applied Sciences application portal
- Applicants with foreign degree documents apply via uni-assist: August 1st to October 1st, 2025.
- EU applicants with foreign degree documents apply via uni-assist: November 1st to December 15th, 2025 - It is recommended to submit your application in December to ensure that uni-assist forwards it on time.
- Applicants with German degree documents apply directly via the Osnabr¨¹ck University of Applied Sciences application portal: November 1st, 2025 to January 15th, 2026.
Application requirements may include a motivation letter. Please refer to the university¡¯s application portal for full details.
It depends on the number of applicants and application route. You will be informed after the selection process concludes.
Contact uni-assist support or reach out to the university¡¯s admissions office.
Curriculum & Study structure
The program takes 4 semesters (2 years) of full-time study.
The curriculum includes core modules and electives in sustainability science, resource flows, food and agriculture, participatory planning, and communication. A detailed overview will be available upon accreditation.
Yes! Each of the first three semesters includes a Transdisciplinary Project (15 ECTS), where students work in diverse teams on real-world challenges in sustainable land use. Examples include:
- Resilient Landscapes
- Life Cycle Assessment of Products/Value Chains
- Communicating at the Nexus of Planning and Practice
Each semester concludes with a poster presentation and conference-style forum, promoting applied learning, reflection, and key skills in project management and collaboration.
Yes. The final semester focuses on a Master¡¯s thesis (30 ECTS), allowing in-depth academic or practical research.
Internships are not mandatory but encouraged. Support is available for finding suitable placements.
The program is designed as full-time, but part-time or flexible arrangements may be discussed with the program coordinator.
Tuition fees & funding
Approximately €360 per semester, which includes a Semester Ticket for unlimited travel on local and regional public transport.
Yes. Various scholarship options exist through DAAD and other sources.
Yes. Many students take part-time jobs. Knowledge of German is helpful for job hunting.
Living in Osnabr¨¹ck
Osnabr¨¹ck is a welcoming university city with rich cultural life, historical architecture, and plenty of green space. It offers a great balance between livability and affordability.
It¡¯s more affordable than larger German cities. Student discounts apply for public transport, dining, and cultural events.
Osnabr¨¹ck has a mild, temperate climate with cool winters and mild summers. Expect some rain throughout the year ¨C don¡¯t forget an umbrella!
Housing & Accommodation
Options include:
- Studierendenwerk dormitories (apply early)
- Shared flats (WGs)
- Private apartments
Use platforms like WG-Gesucht, university bulletin boards, and Facebook groups.
- Dormitories: €250 ¨C €400/month
- WGs: €300 ¨C €500/month
- Private apartments: €450+
Apply online through Studierendenwerk Osnabr¨¹ck. Apply early ¨C spaces fill quickly!
Transportation & Getting around
Public buses and cycling are the most common. Your Semester Ticket allows free travel on regional trains and buses in Lower Saxony and parts of North Rhine-Westphalia.
Yes! It¡¯s a very bike-friendly city with well-marked paths. Many students rely on bicycles.
Absolutely. You can reach cities like Hamburg, Berlin, or Cologne via train. The Semester Ticket covers regional routes ¨C great for weekend getaways!
Student life & Activities
There¡¯s something for everyone:
- University sports & fitness programs
- Cultural clubs & student initiatives
- Concerts, markets, and festivals
- Nature outings, hiking, and biking
Yes. Jobs in caf¨¦s, labs, university departments, and more are common. Some may require German proficiency.
English is widely spoken at the university. However, basic German is very helpful for everyday life. Free German courses are offered to international students.
Health insurance is mandatory and ensures access to quality care. Students receive affordable insurance plans and can visit doctors, clinics, or hospitals as needed. Feel free to contact the ¡°Center for International Students¡± for more information.