Student and Alumni experiences - Sustainability Science: Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Society

31.03.26 With a background in Environmental Sciences, Tom Reckmann chose the Master’s program Sustainability Science: Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Society to further explore socio-ecological systems from an interdisciplinary perspective. Today, he continues this path through the Doctoral Fast-Track program at Leuphana.

Why did you choose to study Sustainability Science: Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Society?

I wanted to deepen my knowledge in Sustainability Science and specialize in socio-ecological systems. This Master’s program was therefore a perfect fit for me, as it was offered immediately after I completed my Bachelor’s degree.

What were your expectations before you started your Master’s degree at Leuphana, and what do you like most about Sustainability Science: Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Society?

Since I had an interdisciplinary Bachelor’s degree, I assumed I would continue working in this way, though with a slightly stronger focus than before. I think that’s exactly what I like best about the Master’s program: the interdisciplinary nature. I enjoy examining sustainability issues from a systemic perspective. A purely technical (disciplinary) background seems more like a limitation to me.

What did you study before starting your Master’s degree, and how were you able to build on your previous studies?

I studied Environmental Sciences at Leuphana and had already taken courses on similar topics beforehand. That gave me a head start on some topics. For example, I had already completed a course on systems thinking during my Bachelor’s program, so I was able to focus on deepening my knowledge in other areas or on other topics throughout the program.

Leuphana sees itself as an inter- and transdisciplinary university. The orientation of your study program is also interdisciplinary. How do you perceive this?

For me, inter- and transdisciplinarity are something like the DNA of the Faculty of Sustainability at Leuphana, and that is also reflected in the teaching and the courses.

What do you particularly like about the campus and the city of Lüneburg?

I like the vibe on campus and how lively it is. The lawn in front of the cafeteria and many beautiful outdoor spots make campus life very enjoyable, especially in the summer. I love doing sports on campus or just sitting in the sun on the green spaces on campus. 

What is the relationship like with other students and lecturers?

Thanks to great initiatives by the student council (freshman trip and orientation events), it’s easy to network with each other quickly. The first semester is challenging for many, but you get to know each other well through group work. In general, the atmosphere in classes is really good, and everyone treats each other with respect. The relationship with lecturers is also very relaxed, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation with everyone.

Have you decided on a topic for your Master's thesis yet, and do you have any plans for after graduation?

I actually already have a Master’s thesis topic and started my PhD in the Doctoral Fast-Track program in January, so I’ll be staying at Leuphana for a while longer.

Are there any tips you can give new Sustainability Science: Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Society Master’s students, that you would have loved to know at the start of your studies?

The first semester is very challenging, but if you stick with it, you can gain a lot from it. If it does become too much, it’s also okay to take fewer modules. Some of us (including myself) have done that.

Who would you recommend the Sustainability Science: Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Society Master's program to, and what difference can SEBS graduates make?

I would recommend the Master’s program to those who see themselves working in the field of socio-ecological systems, want to pursue research, or are interested in human-nature relationships. In particular, however, I would recommend it to people who are looking for an interdisciplinary or transdisciplinary Master’s program or are generally open to such an approach.