Master of Science in Hydrogeology and Geothermics

Cutting-edge science and high quality teaching

Internationally recognized and accredited by the Swiss Confederation, the Centre for Hydrogeology and Geothermics (CHYN) has around 50 members of staff and is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for cutting-edge science and high quality teaching.

CHYN’s research themes focus on subsurface water and energy resources, with special emphasis on fundamental and  applied aspects  of  operational  hydrogeology, hydrodynamics, hydrochemistry, geochemistry, geothermics, geostatistics and mathematical modelling.  

Specific strengths

Technical skills are an important part of the programme, whether relating to groundwater prospection and abstraction, or reservoir characterization and protection. There is particular emphasis on groundwater contamination processes and remediation issues, as well as the prospection and exploitation of geothermal resources at low, medium and high depths.

A unique training opportunity

Moving towards sustainable use of subsurface water and energy resources is a major challenge for our society, and for geoscientists in particular. This MSc degree, unique in Switzerland, offers a complete introduction to the current scientific approaches to address this challenge.

Designed by CHYN’s dedicated staff, the programme delivers comprehensive hydrogeological training that covers the relevant physical, chemical, biological and thermal processes, as well as key field investigation techniques.

Intense teaching over three semesters provides students with core knowledge and specific skills in hydrogeology and geothermics. The fourth semester is devoted to an individual research project, to be carried out internally or in collaboration with external partners.

Careers

Hydrogeology and geothermics benefit from a favourable situation on the job market, both in Switzerland and internationally.

Graduates with a MSc in Hydrogeology/Geothermics are sought after by groundwater engineering and consulting companies, by major water and energy suppliers, as well as by public administrations. Hydrogeologists are also frequently recruited by development and humanitarian organisations. For highly motivated candidates, this training also opens the way to a PhD thesis.