Master's Programme in Glaciology and Polar Environments, 120 ECTS

The programme focuses on the Cryosphere, and offers courses on and research projects in polar and alpine regions, focusing on how ice sheets and glaciers shape the landscape as well as how permafrost and snow affect ecosystems. The waxing and waning of the large continental ice sheets is discussed in relation to the Quaternary glacial-interglacial cycles, based on landforms and glacial inversion models. Glacial mass balance methods and studies are presented in the context of climate change and global sea level rise. The role of permafrost in the functioning of arctic ecosystems is evaluated in terms of possible feedback mechanisms to the climate system, through changes in tundra carbon balance and surface hydrology.

The programme is introduced with a excursion to northern Fennoscandia (Sweden, Finland and Norway), with day-long hikes and lectures addressing the climate history of the Quaternary, glacial and periglacial landforms, and the environments of the northernmost region of the European continent. In addition, unique opportunities for projects are provided by Tarfala Research Station in the Kebnekaise Massif, in northern Sweden, which is run by the Department.