Geosciences of Basin and Lithosphere: VU University Amsterdam

Course Description

This research Master’s addresses all aspects of lithosphere behaviour and basin development. Quantitative knowledge of sedimentary basins is becoming increasingly important to sustainable development in Europe. Not only are sedimentary basins mankind’s repositories for water, geothermal energy, and hydrocarbon resources, but they also host media for the storage of reclaimed water, natural gas and waste (including nuclear waste), and, perhaps most importantly, CO2.

Career prospects

Once you have obtained your Master’s degree, universities will be keen to welcome you as a research fellow. A Master’s degree is also the best route to a career in the oil industry or other industrial sectors. Several oil companies participate directly in the Master’s programme, for example by offering research placements.

Representatives from these companies meet the Master’s students in an informal setting once a year. These sessions are especially helpful if you are considering a career in the oil industry. Management courses are available for graduates interested in working for a government agency or similar organization.

Admission requirements

You can be enrolled in this Master-programme if:

• You have obtained your Bachelor's degree at VU University Amsterdam (Earth Sciences; variant I [Geology and Hydrology or Hydrogeology]) provided that the weighted average result of your bachelor programme is at least 7.0 and you have an open-minded and internationally oriented attitude.
• You obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Earth Sciences somewhere else.

Language requirements

Foreign students for whom English is not the first language are required to have adequate results in an English language proficiency test: a TOEFL score of 580 (237 in the TOEFL computer-based test) or an IELTS score of 6.5, or they must obtain one of these qualifications upon applying to VU University Amsterdam. If you have another English qualification, please enclose relevant information and, if possible, a photocopy of the diploma, so that the Examination Board can take these factors into consideration.