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Oceans & Lakes

The interuniversity Master of Science in Marine and Lacustrine Science and Management (known as: Oceans & Lakes) offers a multidisciplinary approach to marine and lacustrine systems. It integrates physical, chemical, geological, ecological and societal aspects and encourages students to also consider conservational and sustainability features. Students are provided with strong fundamental and applied knowledge and are prepared for an active role in the scientific research and management of marine and lacustrine systems.

In this joint programme on aquatic systems, three universities in Flanders (Belgium) - the Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Universiteit Antwerpen and Universiteit Gent combine their expertise. Many other experts and institutions are also involved in on this programme, adding even more knowhow.

Visit the Oceans & Lakes website for more information.

Insight into the complexity of life

This two-year master’s programme offers a unique combination of study in the marine and lacustrine field. It provides insight into the complexity of life and processes in marine environments and lakes, and offers skills to study and manage them. This combination of disciplines makes the programme unique in Europe. It comprises management and policy as well as commercial aspects of aquatic ecosystems and law. Since admission is open to holders of various science-related bachelor’s degrees, it may offer a unique opportunity to re-orientate your study career, and to broaden your horizon and meet people from different backgrounds.

Interested in other aspects of biology? Take a look at the Master of Science in Biology and its graduation options!

Marianna Pinzone, alumna

I would do it again in a heartbeat!

"I studied Biology in Rome with the aim of going abroad to study the marine environment and really touch with my hands what it means to work in this field. The Master in Marine and Lacustrine Science and Management at VUB fitted perfectly with what I was looking for. Not only does it allow you to acquire a strong knowledge of both marine and freshwater ecosystems, but the international nature of the programme opens you up to different cultures and traditions and gives you the possibility to see the world through their eyes. Studying at VUB was a completely different academic experience than I was used to. It taught to me to cope with what is ‘new’ and ‘different’ and broadened my mind. I would do it again in a heartbeat!"

Development and Sustainability

Oceans & Lakes is recognised as an ICP (International Course Programme). This means that there are targeted and well-developed trajectories possible to university development cooperation with South partners: the application of science and management skills to global and local challenges, aligning with the UN's sustainable development goals.

I'm a scientist

Find out what it means to be an Oceans & Lakes student.

More about next academic year?

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Educational Quality


Here at VUB we put great care and effort in the quality of our education. Transparency is key. Information on the educational quality of each programme is public, e.g. describing its strengths and actions.

Public info on the quality of the programme

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