Natural Systems Management (Master Studies)

Lecturers about study programme

""The Natural Systems Management" programme definitely provides the skills and tools for a successful career as a conservationist or environmentalist. We set high professional standards for the programme's lecturers and give students the flexibility to pursue their personal goals, we build warm relationships and take feedback on the quality of the studies into account, we invite students to participate in ongoing research projects and we share an environment for international cooperation. For those of you who want to study in a modern way, who are planning a professional or managerial career in ecology, or who want to become a scientist, the MSc in "Natural Systems Management" is now the best choice."

Professor Ingrida Šaulienė, PhD, Chair of the Life Sciences Curriculum Committee, lectures on Atmospheric Bioaerosol Research and Environmental Project Development and Management.

 "It is never too late to learn, so no matter what ambitions or aspirations divide or unite us, we can always learn from each other, from the environment, from situations, or even from everyday details. The MSc in "Natural Systems Management" is a unique programme that meets the current requirements of an ecologist. Together with our students, we research, model and learn from real-life situations. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate, you will enjoy these studies and they will be useful in your professional career."

Assoc. Professor Laura Šukienė, PhD, lectures on Climate Change Impact Assessment and Recreational Ecology.

In science, I am guided by Einstein's words "If at first, the idea is not absurd, then there is no hope for it". The Master's degree programme "Natural Systems Management" can be a platform for your creative ideas, with competent teachers to help you realise them. You won't be bored in lectures, research activities are not limited to work in laboratories, you will also gain practical knowledge of nature conservation through field trips to companies and meetings with environmental control specialists."

Assoc. Professor Ilona Kerienė, PhD, lectures on Methodology of Ecology Research and Assessment of Anthropogenic Load in Ecosystems.

"If you want to work in or for nature, the "Natural Systems Management" programme is the best place to start! During your studies you will have the opportunity to gain, make sense of and share your knowledge, thus connecting with current and future professionals who will be one of the main pillars in your career."

Assoc. Professor, Martynas Kazlauskas, PhD, Head of the Botanical Garden, lectures on Wildlife Resource Management and Ecosystem Services.

Student feedback

Dana Bacal, student. “I love being a part of the Natural Systems Management study programme for several reasons. First of all, it offers a lot of great opportunities, for instance in the first 3 months I already had the chance to participate in a short Erasmus programme. The professors are approachable and always willing to help, making the learning environment very supportive. The community is small but tight-knit and communication is usually very efficient. The programme is broad enough to allow academic and creative freedom, letting students explore different areas of interest. It’s a flexible, multi-modal programme, and aside from the theoretical knowledge it provides, there is a big emphasis on practical skills, which is perfect for those who want a hands-on education. As for Šiauliai, while the city itself isn’t very lively and the campus doesn’t offer much in terms of social activities, which is definitely something to take into account, it’s a great place for focused, independent study. There are also picturesque natural places in the surrounding areas which allows combining the study of ecology with relaxing in nice places“.

Alumni feedback

Gediminas Petrėnas, PhD student, Nature Research Centre (NRC). “The Natural Systems Management program at Vilnius University Šiauliai Academy was a transformative stage in my academic and professional journey. The comprehensive knowledge and advanced skills acquired during the program laid a solid foundation for my current doctoral studies at the Nature Research Centre. The program is distinguished by its high academic standards, relevance to contemporary challenges, and the exceptional expertise of its faculty, fostering a profound understanding of sustainable natural systems management and scientific inquiry.

Throughout the program, I engaged in research projects that not only expanded my theoretical knowledge but also provided critical practical experience in addressing real-world environmental issues. The curriculum emphasised the importance of critical thinking, innovative problem-solving, and evidence-based decision-making, which have proven indispensable in my pursuit of academic and professional excellence. Exploring environmental sustainability and conservation topics significantly influenced my commitment to contributing to global efforts in natural resource preservation.

This program not only advanced my technical competencies but also deepened my appreciation of the intricate interconnections within natural systems and their pivotal role in societal well-being. The intellectually stimulating academic environment fostered collaboration, interdisciplinary dialogue, and professional growth. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to study in this program, which has profoundly shaped my academic trajectory and equipped me to make meaningful contributions to the field of environmental science“.

Sandra Leinartienė, Chief Specialist at the Šiauliai Department of the State Food and Veterinary Office. "I have successfully completed my studies in Natural Systems Management and obtained a Master's degree in Life Sciences. Life Sciences studies are of a high level, in demand and needed, and the lecturers are professional and competent. My studies have given me new knowledge, challenges and opportunities. I have applied my professional competences, theoretical knowledge and practical skills in my professional life and in my everyday life. Come, overcome and get your Master's degree!"