Sustainable utilisation of marine bio-resources through environmentally friendly means, with full utilisation of catch, technological advance and maximisation of the monetary value of raw materials is considered to become the requirement of the international community when looking to the future.

MARBIO is a joint Nordic Master’s programme in sustainable production and utilisation of marine bio-resources. This is a research-based Master’s programme that is collaboratively offered by four Nordic Universities: University of Gothenburg, Nord University Bodö, Hólar University and the University of Akureyri. The studies provide students with a practical, research-based education in the field of marine bio-resources and their utilisation in a diverse context.

The language of instruction is English.

Is the programme for you?

  • Do you want to learn about full utilisation of products?
  • Are you interested in the global fisheries sector?
  • Have you pondered the effects of climate change on fisheries?
  • Are you interested in innovation in the field of fish farming?

Emphases in the programme

The aim of MARBIO is to provide a practical, research-based education in the field of marine bio-resources and their utilisation in a diverse context. The studies integrate biological, environmental, social and legal disciplines and in this way, an integral but interdisciplinary programme is created.
After concluding the programme, a student should have comprehensive knowledge of sustainable production and utilisation of marine bio-resources. In the programme, an emphasis is placed on students being able to independently make use of appropriate methods in research and development in the field and disseminate complex scientific information to specialists and the public.
MARBIO targets inter- and transdisciplinary approaches to the interactions between fisheries, aquaculture and production and utilisation of marine bio-resources with a special focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. This will prepare the student for a wide array of opportunities, as a PhD student or within the industry.
MARBIO offers mobility for students as it is assumed that the student will stay and pursue studies for one semester during his/her period of study at one of the partner universities. The exchange stay is mandatory for each student but he/she does, though, make a decision on when during the study period it will take place.

Information on the organisation of the studies can be found in Ugla.

Possibilities upon completing the programme

The programme is ideal preparation for various work in the field of fisheries and sustainability. Numerous jobs are at innovation and start-up companies. The programme is furthermore great preparation for jobs at international fishing operators, government ministries, specialist institutions and consulting firms.
The Master’s degree provides access to Doctoral studies in the fields of science, business and related disciplines at both domestic and foreign universities.

Admission requirements

As a general rule, students shall have completed a BA/BS degree in the field of natural or empirical science, business administration, law or related disciplines. Students are required to have completed their undergraduate degree with a first-class grade (7.25). Applicants from abroad, whose native language is not English, must demonstrate good English language skills (minimum grade TOEFL 85 or IELTS 6.5).

Applicants must submit a report in English (500–1,500 words) where they specify why they are interested in the programme, their background and knowledge of the discipline, aims with pursuing the programme and future plans, as well as a possible subject for a Master’s thesis.
An application shall be accompanied by letters of recommendation from 2 individuals who are familiar with the applicant and can provide the person concerned with a clear reference.

To start teaching in MARBIO each year, a minimum of 10 students must enroll in the programme. A total of 20 students are admitted each academic year.