Personalised course content
The degree programme consists of six semesters. Each semester, you can earn 30 ECTS credits through compulsory modules and a selection of optional modules. Additional academic content, such as specialisation modules, can be credited under the European Credit Transfer System. This results in a total of 180 ECTS credits for the IFEM Bachelor’s degree programme.
Modules per term
In the first and second semesters, students are taught the basics of natural sciences and socio-economics.
You will gain a basic understanding of morphological structures, cytology, anatomy, physiological processes and the systematic relationships of plants, with a focus on woody plants.
You will be equipped to participate actively in discussions on current issues and concerns relating to sustainability, natural resource management and nature conservation. Your knowledge is based on a comprehensive and integrated understanding and appreciation of the ecosystems in which humans are embedded.
The module comprises the sections on soil science and site and vegetation ecology.
Upon completion of the module, you will have a basic understanding of the formation, structure and properties of various (forest) soil types and will be able to apply this knowledge to understand the functions of soils within the natural ecosystem. You will be able to assess forest sites on the basis of their climatological, geological and pedological characteristics, as well as their vegetation.
The module comprises the sections Zoology, Wildlife Biology and Fundamentals of Entomology.
You will learn to identify relevant animal groups and explain their role in the (forest) ecosystem. You will also gain an overview of the biology and ecology of wildlife, with a focus on mammals. The focus is on species knowledge in wildlife biology and an overview of the lifestyle of native wildlife relevant to wildlife management. Participants will also acquire basic knowledge of insects. The aim is to familiarise you with the ecological role and functional diversity of insects.
The module consists of the sections ‘Introduction to Socioeconomics’ and ‘Social Science Methods’.
You will be able to apply socio-economic principles to economic relations and the management of forestry and forestry service enterprises. You will be able to apply quantitative and qualitative social science methods and interpret their results.
As part of the degree programme, students generally have the opportunity to obtain a hunting licence. This involves additional costs.
During your studies, you will take the relevant compulsory elective modules covering the theoretical content. The practical training takes place alongside your studies. Both components conclude with an examination.
In the first and second semesters, students are taught the basics of natural sciences and socio-economics.
The module comprises the components of ecology, dendrology/species identification and wildlife management.
You will learn to apply ecological knowledge in relation to ecosystem analysis, management and sustainable forest use in practical contexts. Through the analysis of forest sites with different management practices in practical fieldwork, you will learn to assess the impacts of human activities (e.g. silviculture) on the complex forest ecosystem and its multifunctionality. You will be able to use identification literature and possess basic botanical species knowledge. You will be able to link fundamental knowledge of wildlife ecology to application-oriented practical action and assess the impact of your actions on wildlife populations, their habitats and the entire ecosystem.
The module comprises the sections Data Management, Geodata & Geoinformatics, and GIS Exercises and Tutorial.
Through practical application, you will be able to create data tables with their fields and corresponding field data types, and recognise structures and dependencies between the data. You will be able to construct functions and expressions for data analysis, interpret results, and address various scientific questions. You will be familiar with the possibilities and tools for data presentation and will be able to produce structured output. You will have a basic knowledge of applied geoinformatics, enabling you to acquire practical skills in handling spatial data and using relevant GIS software for application in modern (digital) forestry. You have a basic theoretical understanding of applied geoinformatics and are able to understand the practical forestry applications of digital spatial data and automated sensor data in forestry.
The module comprises the sections on dendrometry, biometry and forest growth.
You will have a basic understanding of environmental data analysis. You will have knowledge of the quantitative growth processes of individual trees and forest stands. You will have knowledge of the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors on growth, mass and value yield, as well as stand stability and stand structures. The influence of silvicultural measures can be assessed in a differentiated manner, and simple forest growth estimation and planning tools can be applied. Students have the ability to independently and efficiently collect, process and analyse simple, predominantly single-tree-oriented, spatially-related forest data.
The module comprises the following components: forestry work, timber harvesting, forest development and wood as a raw material.
You will be able to apply the knowledge of personnel deployment required for the planning and execution of practical forestry work in an international context. You will be able to plan and carry out resource-conserving, sustainable timber harvesting measures in an international context and will be able to contribute to the planning of forest and landscape development relevant to management and recreation in an international context. You are familiar with the structure and composition of wood, as well as relevant wood characteristics and properties. You are familiar with different ways of utilising wood and, based on this, can sort and prepare wood in a customer-oriented manner.
As part of the degree programme, students generally have the opportunity to obtain a hunting licence. This involves additional costs.
During your studies, you will take the relevant compulsory elective modules covering the theoretical content. The practical training takes place alongside your studies. Both components conclude with an examination.
The module comprises a field exercise in site and vegetation science (2nd semester) and a field and laboratory practical in soil science (3rd semester).
You will be able to identify soils in the field and determine their site-ecological properties using field methods. Furthermore, you will be able to draw conclusions about the key site conditions based on vegetation surveys. The results can be used to make recommendations for tree species selection based on site conditions.
You will be able to understand the fundamental metabolic processes of plants and apply this knowledge to practical issues relating to forest management and conservation. You will be familiar with the principles of applied plant ecology and apply them in practical exercises.
You will be able to communicate in the target language at the specified level, both orally and in writing, understand authentic content, and successfully prepare for a career or further education at home or abroad through intercultural and social understanding.
You can find the current range of language courses at the Language Centre.
You will be able to analyse the state of representative ecosystems and interpret them from a management perspective.
Using a region in a selected transition country as a case study, you will learn how socio-economic and political transformation processes can lead to changes in the ecosystem, and why this knowledge is relevant to ecosystem management. This also involves identifying and applying ecosystem and socio-economic indicators to assess any changes in the system.
You will be able to identify and assess the relationships between habitats and species, their biology and way of life, using natural forests as an example. The theoretical foundations covered in the Wildlife Biology and Zoology sub-module will be reinforced through practical exercises. You will acquire practical knowledge of species (wildlife, ornithology, invertebrates and botany)
The module comprises two parts: the student research colloquium and ‘International Actors in (Forest) Ecosystem Management’.
You will be able to analyse and critically discuss current forest ecosystem management projects in various regions of the world. You will deepen your understanding of the political, socio-economic, geographical and ecological issues relating to forest ecosystem management, thereby gaining a comprehensive overview of the existing challenges and potential approaches adopted by local stakeholders. You will become acquainted with key international stakeholders in forest ecosystem management. You will be able to analyse and critically reflect on the objectives and approaches of these organisations. Students will be able to situate these stakeholders within the international discourse on ecosystem and natural resource management and understand their roles.
The third semester focuses on teaching and applying skills for the sustainable management and conservation of global forest ecosystems.
The module comprises the sections Environmental Economics and Environmental, Development Policy and Law.
You will be familiar with the fundamentals of environmental and resource economics and will be able to contextualise and communicate environmental economic issues. You will be familiar with the main features of these two policy sectors in relation to the environment and development, taking postcolonial history into account. You will be able to participate actively in public debates and write statements and other contributions, for example for organisations working in this field. You will be able to develop arguments and will be trained in participating in and mediating conflicts.
The module comprises the components Applied Ecology, Fundamentals of Silviculture and Forest Metrology.
You will examine and analyse all elements of a (forest) ecosystem. You will acquire methodological knowledge, understand complex interactions and interpret the results of scientific studies with regard to the effects of forest management on the multifunctionality of forest ecosystems. You will gain a detailed understanding of the relationships within forest ecosystems and between these ecosystems and their environment under the influence of various management strategies. They are able to translate the information they have acquired into practical, in-depth knowledge of the fundamentals of the development and sustainable management of multi-purpose forest ecosystems under various social, economic and ecological constraints. They possess the ability to methodically prepare and carry out simple forest inventories with different objectives, as well as to analyse and interpret the data collected.
Using the principles and tools of adaptive management, you will be equipped to propose ecosystem-based strategies for achieving sustainable development in selected areas.
The module comprises the components Applied Silviculture, Ecosystem Development and Restoration, and Forest Inventory.
You will be able to develop, evaluate and implement silvicultural strategies and management programmes based on socio-economic information and knowledge of forest ecology, forest growth, site science and silviculture. You will be familiar with specific silvicultural techniques and able to apply them to specific situations in line with the given objectives. You will learn about the possibilities and limitations of promoting forest development following disasters and under conditions of climate change. You will be able to critically reflect on appropriate heuristics for promoting ecosystem functionality. You will master the fundamental methods and techniques of forest inventory and forest management planning. You are familiar with inventories designed for different objectives across various spatial scales. You are able to design, apply and evaluate classic forestry and forest ecology inventories for different objectives. You are familiar with internationally recognised forest management practices.
The module comprises a field exercise in site and vegetation science (2nd semester) and a field and laboratory practical in soil science (3rd semester).
You will be able to identify soils in the field and determine their site-ecological properties using field methods. Furthermore, you will be able to draw conclusions about the key site conditions based on vegetation surveys. The results can be used to make recommendations for tree species selection based on site conditions.
The module comprises the components ‘Fundamentals of Plant Pathology and Environmental Monitoring’ (3rd semester) and ‘Applied Tree Pathology’ (4th semester).
You will be able to identify biotic and abiotic plant diseases in woody plants and apply environmental monitoring methods in the forest.
The module comprises the components Public Relations (3rd semester) and Forest Education/Education for Sustainable Development (4th semester).
You will be equipped to become advocates for nature- and environment-friendly practices and acquire the tools needed to engage with the media and the general public. Students will be able to identify and involve various forest-related stakeholders and their interests, as well as apply appropriate conflict resolution strategies.
You will be able to understand the fundamentals of wildlife biology and hunting within an ecosystemal context and, where appropriate, apply them in practice.
The module comprises the sections on tree care and assessment, and damage diagnosis in woody plants.
You will learn to identify damage to trees and shrubs, distinguish between the underlying causes and make a basic assessment of the damage. You will acquire the scientific and legal principles underlying the care and restoration of trees and their sites.
The module consists of the components ‘Practical Microbiology’ and ‘Laboratory Standards and Experimental Principles’.
You will be able to plan, carry out and evaluate scientifically designed laboratory experiments under guidance and supervision, and to a large extent independently. You will be familiar with the laboratory procedures required for this. You will be able to reflect on the results of your independently designed experiments from a scientific perspective and present them appropriately. You will be familiar with the specific safety standards and procedures of routine laboratory operations. You will be familiar with the basic equipment of a microbiology laboratory and able to design microbiological experiments to a scientific standard.
They are able to understand agroecological interactions, policy frameworks and the potential of various agroforestry systems, and, above all, to assess and evaluate these in terms of their practical feasibility. Students understand the relevance of the parameters measured at the → agroforestry experimental plot and are able to plan, carry out and evaluate a corresponding experimental design.
You will be able to understand and apply the principles of academic writing and presentation.
You will be able to communicate in the target language at the specified level, both orally and in writing, understand authentic content, and successfully prepare for a career or further education at home or abroad through intercultural and social understanding.
You can find the current range of language courses at the Language Centre.
You may also choose elective modules from certain other HNEE degree programmes or from international partner universities that are thematically related to your degree programme.
In the fourth semester, you can spend a semester abroad at one of our partner universities in Europe, North or South America (places are limited!). We recommend that you also complete the compulsory internship in the fifth semester there, in order to further your potential research. If you choose to remain in Germany, these modules are available to you.
The module comprises the components ‘Urban Forest Management’ and ‘Municipal Forest and Agroforestry Management’.
You will be able to analyse and systematise the specific societal requirements for urban and peri-urban forests and develop management strategies based on these. The focus is on ecosystem services that contribute to the resilience of cities, as well as the various stakeholders relevant to the management of urban green spaces. You will be able to apply guiding principles for the sustainable management of common-pool resources and promote agroforestry systems.
The module consists of two parts: Climate Change – Causes and Scenarios, and Environmental Policy.
You will learn about the physical fundamentals of climate change, the anthropogenic drivers of rapid climate change since the start of industrialisation, and the impacts of climate change today and in the future. You will explore social and political science theories and concepts relating to environmental and climate policy. Social structures, institutions and actors will be examined in order to explore topics such as cooperation, protest behaviour and political action in greater depth.
Unlike regulatory law, you are familiar with the economically oriented approach of certification schemes, particularly in the forestry sector, as well as the most widely used schemes and the differences between them. You are able to understand and apply the fundamentals of environmental law, as well as more detailed regulations on species and habitat protection and environmental assessment procedures.
The module comprises the components ‘Intercultural Competence’ and ‘Counselling Methods in International Cooperation’.
You will understand various concepts of culture, be aware of communication barriers, and know how to overcome them through self-reflection and a heightened awareness of cultural differences. You will be able to distinguish between different forms and approaches to counselling and apply them in real-life case scenarios.
In this module, you will acquire advanced methodological knowledge and technical skills for the analysis and integration of digital sensor data, as well as practical applications in forest ecosystem analysis. You will gain theoretical background and practical experience through digital (3D) forest monitoring examples and management case studies.
They are capable of carrying out the technical, methodological and planning aspects of relevant forestry work.
The module consists of two parts: forest access for recreational use and path construction.
You will acquire the basic knowledge required for planning recreational infrastructure and will be able to apply this in the planning of specific measures. You will also gain practical knowledge of appropriate forest path construction and will be able to produce a project report.
They are able to understand agroecological interactions, policy frameworks and the potential of various agroforestry systems, and, above all, to assess and evaluate these in terms of their practical feasibility. Students understand the relevance of the parameters measured at the → agroforestry experimental plot and are able to plan, carry out and evaluate a corresponding experimental design.
The module consists of two parts: business start-ups and business management.
You will develop ideas for starting a business. You will be able to set up and successfully manage your own business in an international context. You will be able to analyse businesses in terms of their economic performance, apply models for optimising economic processes and evaluate situations.
By reflecting on the experiences gained through their long-term engagement, combined with an in-depth examination of specialist subject matter, you will develop personal skills such as communication skills, self-efficacy, teamwork and more. You will come to understand the importance of civic engagement and will be able to assess and reflect on the opportunities and limitations within your respective field of study.
You will be able to communicate in the target language at the specified level, both orally and in writing, understand authentic content, and successfully prepare for a career or further education at home or abroad through intercultural and social understanding.
You can find the current range of language courses at the Language Centre.
You may also choose elective modules from certain other HNEE degree programmes or from international partner universities that are thematically related to your degree programme.
During the practical fifth semester abroad, you will put your knowledge and skills gained during your studies to the test and build on them. All full-time students with a knowledge of German must complete their placement abroad on topics related to forest ecosystems.
You will take part in international projects in the field of multifunctional and sustainable forest ecosystem management. International students can complete their work placement semester in Germany.
The practical semester concludes with a project report and its presentation and currently lasts 20 weeks.
In the sixth semester, you will write your bachelor’s thesis based on research projects and undertake further, more in-depth additional modules and complex project work.
You can write an academic paper on a subject of your own choosing within your field of study, formulate working hypotheses and develop methodological approaches. You analyse and present data in an academic manner. You are able to evaluate and critically discuss conclusions. You are familiar with the principles of good academic practice.
You will be able to derive and document approaches to sustainable forest management based on a specific section of forest. In doing so, you will draw on data from site and forest growth science, as well as spatial data relating to the forest areas under consideration (including forest inventory). The project focuses on (silvicultural) planning at stand and operational levels, as well as its implementation through specific silvicultural measures. These skills are complemented by tasks relating to recreational planning and other specialised planning, as well as the planning of measures to adapt forests to climate change.
You will be able to assess the potential and current impact of UNESCO biosphere reserves as learning environments and model regions for ecosystem-based sustainable development, and to identify the current management challenges using selected examples.
Restoration of Forest Ecosystems: Elective Module
You will be able to apply forest landscape restoration (FLR) techniques in various contexts of ecological disturbance, such as afforestation, the rehabilitation of degraded areas and water management, in order to restore fundamental (forest) ecosystem functions and contribute to improving the quality of life for people in various ecozones around the world.
You will be able to identify the currently significant alien and invasive harmful organisms, as well as serious, complex disease phenomena. You will be familiar with national and international legal provisions and standards, as well as the specific monitoring, prevention and eradication measures relating to plant quarantine.
You will learn to apply the fundamentals of problem-solving and, using case studies, to identify the context and possible scenarios, as well as to formulate working hypotheses. You will be able to identify practical tasks (financial planning, work planning, project proposals) and will learn to define the context of your research topic. You will be able to formulate research proposals in group work and present your results. In doing so, you should apply the knowledge of plant ecology, dendrochronology, meteorology, statistics, inventory, database management, GIS, silviculture and financial planning acquired during your studies to date, as well as in the seminar and lecture components of the module, to case studies.
You will be able to communicate in the target language at the specified level, both orally and in writing, understand authentic content, and successfully prepare for a career or further education at home or abroad through intercultural and social understanding.
You can find the current range of language courses at the Language Centre.
You may also choose elective modules from certain other HNEE degree programmes or from international partner universities that are thematically related to your degree programme.