The course in Biological Oceanography with a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree imparts knowledge and skills in a number of disciplines that take on the consideration of the entire ocean system from a wide variety of angles. The "Biological Oceanography" course focuses on biology and provides knowledge in chemistry, geology, physics and mathematics. In the first two semesters, the theoretical and practical foundations for systemic consideration of the marine environment are laid. Building on these principles, the graduates set the individual priorities of their training in elective and compulsory elective modules, starting in the 2nd semester. Already in the 2nd semester, the graduates are introduced to and integrated into the theory and practice of current research. With preparatory modules in the third semester and the preparation of the master's thesis in the fourth semester, the graduates develop the respective technical expertise and provide evidence of this. In addition to the credit points of the compulsory and compulsory elective modules of the "Biological Oceanography" course, students earn 10 credit points from modules that can be freely selected from the entire range of modules at the CAU. Graduates are able to identify marine communities (zoology, botany, microbiology) and characterize them using the most modern methods (physiology, biochemistry, genetics, developmental biology, molecular biology, taxonomy, etc.), their physico-chemical environment, nutrient requirements and interactions with the seabed and atmosphere (inorganic chemistry and analytics, geology, physics, especially oceanography and meteorology) as well as population changes (stock assessment, statistics) and to evaluate their significance in the overall marine context. The master's thesis proves that the graduates are able to clearly structure complex scientific questions in the individual mostly biological sub-disciplines and answer them in a defined time frame, but are also able to view, evaluate and communicate in larger contexts. The ability to cross-system considerations and the use of the resulting synergies is playing an increasingly important role in presenting findings from both basic research and considering application aspects in an understandable manner and incorporating them into decision-making processes. This versatility also reflects the wide-ranging job description. The language of instruction and examination in the single-subject Master’s course in Biological Oceanography is English. For a stay abroad, the third semester is recommended for students (mobility window). The module examination determines whether the student has achieved the learning objectives of a module. The module examinations take place during the course and can consist of one or more examinations. The type and number of examinations to be performed are based on the subject examination regulations. The master’s examination is passed if all module examinations required by the subject examination regulations and the thesis have been passed and the required number of credit points has been earned. The standard period of study for the single-subject Master’s degree in Biological Oceanography is 4 semesters.