DAAD WATENV Water Research Scholarships 2026 Open in Germany

Water scarcity, flood risks, and environmental pollution are pressing global challenges — and the need for skilled professionals to solve them is greater than ever. The M.Sc. in Water Resources and Environmental Management (WATENV) at Leibniz University of Hanover, Germany, offers you the chance to join this fight with world-class training, research opportunities, and a pathway to global careers.

What is WATENV?

WATENV is a research-oriented international Master’s programme hosted by the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geodetic Sciences. It equips engineers and natural scientists with the knowledge and skills to manage water resources sustainably.

• Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
• Duration: 2 years (1.5 years coursework + 0.5 years thesis)
• Language: English
• Specializations:
  1. Water Resources Management
  2. Sanitary Engineering.

You’ll graduate ready to lead in research, environmental administration, and consulting — tackling issues from clean water supply to waste management.

What Will You Learn?

Your journey begins with a solid foundation in:

• Natural sciences
• Environmental hydraulics
• Hydrology
• Water resources management

From the second semester, you’ll choose your specialization and deepen your expertise, while also developing soft skills for scientific success. The final semester focuses on your Master’s thesis, conducted under expert supervision.

Beyond the classroom: Fieldwork, excursions, and collaborative projects ensure you gain real-world experience.

Career Pathways

With global demand for water experts, WATENV graduates enjoy diverse opportunities:

• Research & Academia – universities, research agencies
• Consulting Firms – planning and maintenance of water facilities
• International Organizations – water-focused projects worldwide
• Public Administration – national and regional water management

Why Choose Hanover?

• Lively student city with rich cultural offerings
• Events, excursions, and networking opportunities
• Affordable living and excellent campus facilities

Scholarships & Funding

WATENV is part of the DAAD EPOS Scholarship network, offering fully-funded awards to young professionals from developing countries with at least 2 years of work experience.

• Covers: Tuition, living costs, travel, and more
• Deadline for DAAD EPOS: September 30, 2025 (for winter intake 2026)

Other options:

• German individual scholarships
• WMO fellowships for candidates from least developed and developing countries (via Permanent Representatives)
• Explore Scholarships: https://www.fbg.uni-hannover.de/de/studium/studienangebot-der-fakultaet/water-resources-and-environmental-management-watenv/finances-and-funding

Application Deadlines

The general application deadline for the Winter Semester 2026 intake of the M.Sc. in Water Resources and Environmental Management (WATENV) at Leibniz University of Hanover is January 15, 2026, while the deadline to apply for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship for this program is September 30, 2025.

How to Apply?

1. Review the admission requirements for your nationality.
2. Prepare required documents (academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, CV, statement of purpose, etc.).
3. Apply online via Leibniz University’s application portal or DAAD EPOS application route if eligible.
4. Arrange for funding (DAAD EPOS or other scholarships).