Restoration Ecology is a unique master program in Restoration Ecology with focus on ways to combat degradation and restore degraded ecosystems.
The Restoration Ecology programme at AUI is a two-year Master’s degree programme (120 ECTS) designed as a full time study. The programme is composed of 60-90 ECTS worth of organised courses depending on the size of a final research project, where students can choose between a 30 or 60 ECTS thesis. In addition to compulsory core courses, students can choose between a range of electives based on their area of interest, allowing for a good amount of flexibility and specialisation within the field. The programme has an international focus with courses generally taught in English.
Iceland is a unique place to study within this rapidly growing field. Iceland’s ecosystems have undergone severe degradation since its first human settlement, due to unsustainable land use in combination with harsh climatic conditions and volcanic activity. Nationally coordinated efforts to combat soil erosion and restore lost and degraded ecosystems span more than 100 years. Iceland therefore offers substantial expertise and practical experience on the subject, with restoration projects spanning various scales and diverse ecosystems.
The Agricultural University of Iceland (AUI) has had a major role in scientific research, education, and training of professionals within the field for a long time. AUI also hosts UNESCO’s GRÓ Land Restoration Training Programme in cooperation with the Land and forest Iceland.
Applications for the year 2025-2026 are now open!
For non-EU/EEA students the application deadline is January 31 to start the programme in the fall of the same year. For students from EU/EEA countries the application deadline is April 15 to start the programme in the fall of the same year. Please note that the programme starts in the fall semester only.
Application portal and further information can be found here
