Masters Degrees (Climate Change)

Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Geographic Information and Climate Change at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

The MSc Geographic Information and Climate Change course provides cross-disciplinary training in the scientific basis of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Satellite Remote Sensing and Earth System Modelling alongside aspects of climate change.

The Geographic Information and Climate Change course places particular emphasis on the technical aspects of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Earth Observation as well as the past, present and future global and regional environmental and climatic change.

Graduates from the Geographic Information and Climate Change course will develop hands-on technical knowledge in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing together with a broad knowledge of the current scientific issues underpinning climate change, and the practical problem solving, ICT and communication skills required for a successful career in either industry or regulating bodies.

It is envisaged that graduates from the MSc Geographic Information and Climate Change course will enter careers in utilities, county councils, the environmental service industry or regulating body, or indeed be well prepared for a future career in academia.

Key Features

Students of the Geographic Information and Climate Change programme will benefit from exceptional computing facilities that include fifteen dual-processor workstations for Earth Observation, a 20-node multiprocessor Beowulf cluster, and the Department’s IBM ‘Blue Ice’ supercomputer, used mainly for climate and glaciological modelling.

Graduates from the MSc Geographic Information and Climate Change course will have broad knowledge of the current scientific issues underpinning climatic change and environmental and ecosystem dynamics, and the practical problem solving, ICT and communication skills required for a successful career in the environmental service industry, regulating bodies or academia.

Aims:

To provide advanced training in understanding the scientific issues associated with environmental dynamics and climatic change,

To provide graduates entering the environmental service industry or a regulating body with the required practical problem solving, ICT and communication skills; as well as a basic knowledge of current climate policy and environmental management,

To provide graduates continuing their academic career with the required subject specific and transferable skills.

Modules

Please Visit our website for a full description of modules for the Geographic Information and Climate Change MSc.

Fieldwork

The Stackpole residential field course introduces students taking the “Principles of Environmental Dynamics” to some of the major themes of the module: environmental systems, sea-level change and human impact on the environment, in a congenial setting in Pembrokeshire. The environmental issues facing the Stackpole Estate are discussed and placed into a historical perspective through lectures and the analysis of long term environmental records.

Research

We aim to be one of the foremost international centres for research in human and physical geography, and to provide our students with excellent teaching and superb facilities in a friendly atmosphere.

The results of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 show that Geography at Swansea University is ranked joint 9th in the UK for research impact and 11th in the UK for research environment.

Research groups include:

Environmental Dynamics

Glaciology

Global Environmental Modelling and Earth Observation

Migration, Boundaries and Identity

Social Theory and Urban Space

Facilities

The Department of Geography is well-resourced to support research: there are two dedicated computer laboratories: One of 24 computers in conjunction with Library and Information Services (LIS) providing general IT software and programmes dedicated to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing; One of 10 high-performance Linux workstations delivering software tools for advanced GIS and remote sensing applications.

We have specialist laboratory suites for: stable-isotope ratio analysis; tree ring analysis; extraction and identification of organic compounds; pollen extraction and analysis; rainfall simulation; tephra analysis; soil and sediment characterisation.

In addition, we have recently spent £1.8million on state-of-the-art teaching spaces, including IT facilities, laboratories and flexible teaching spaces.

Student profiles

“I chose to study MSc Geographic Information and Climate Change at Swansea as I had already enjoyed my undergraduate degree here. I really enjoyed that the course is quite full on, with a lot of independent work but a willingness from lecturers to help with any issues you have. Anyone considering this course I would advise to come to the university and speak with the lecturers about the potential interests they have. You get out what you put in. I want to go into a field that requires some expertise, although I feel as though I will need more experience once in or looking for a job, Swansea has provided the stepping stone for my future career. The lecturers helped me because they take a back seat, but I understand that they are there to support me when I need it. They have allowed me to be independent.”

Alice Nolan, MSc Geographic Information and Climate Change

After completing his MSc in Geographic Information and Climate Change, Thomas went on to earn a position at the Associated British Ports Marine Environmental Research. He said of his time at Swansea – “I chose MSc Geographic Information and Climate Change at Swansea University because of the funding Available (Access to Master's Scheme) and specific course content (Climate Change and GIS modules). I enjoyed studying topics in greater depth than at undergraduate level, and the opportunity to undertake my dissertation in partnership with an external organisation. The lecturers were highly approachable throughout the course, and were always available for advice outside of lectures and seminars. Studying at Master's level in Swansea provided the opportunity to build upon the knowledge and skills I acquired as an undergraduate. For example, completing my Master's dissertation in partnership with an external company enabled development of my communication and organisational skills, as well as my ability to synthesize research. These skills have been vital for development of my career in the marine consulting sector.”

Thomas Perks, MSc Geographic Information and Climate Change

Read less

Climate Change is a growing issue for environmental policy makers at the international, national and sub-national levels, as well as for environmental managers and experts in public, private and non-profit making organisations.

This course provides you with a unique combination of training on the physical, social and policy aspects of climate change and on broader environmental policy and governance.

You’ll receive a solid foundation in the physical and social science of climate change and its impacts, including adaptation to, and mitigation of, climate change.

You’ll develop a critical understanding of the policy tools available to promote environmental protection.

This Masters combines modules taught at the School of Earth and Environment, with optional modules from the School of Geography and the School of Politics and International Studies.

Our teaching draws on the latest cutting-edge research and is delivered by experts and world’s leading researchers on climate change policy (e.g. IPCC lead authors, and a DEFRA UK lead advisor) to give you in-depth knowledge and guidance.

No other UK university can offer the same level and breadth of expert teaching in climate change and environmental policy.

Course highlights:

Be taught by three lead authors of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which advises world governments on the evolving and complex issue of climate change, and a lead advisor to the UK's Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA). All academics have won teaching awards.

Engage with some of the world's leading researchers from the Priestley International Centre for Climate (PICC), the ESRC-funded Centre for Climate Change Economics and Policy (CCCEP) and the RCUK-funded UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC). They have published high profile papers with past students.

Attend excellent seminars and talks run by the School and its research centres, where you will access the latest, cutting-edge research delivered by leading climate policy makers and advisors. Plus, attend other seminars run by the School of Geography and School of Politics and International Studies. Ideal if you want to build, or extend your network to enhance your career.

In addition to a free field course to East Yorkshire, choose an optional overseas field course to Tanzania, which provides an opportunity for you to gain practical experience and apply classroom-based learning first-hand in a developing country context. Ideal if you are considering working in an international capacity in this field.

Course content

When completed on a full-time basis, this 12 month Masters is split into 3 semesters.

In your semester 1, you’ll develop a grounding in the physical and social sciences – important for understanding climate mitigation and adaptation.

You’ll also examine the multiple pathways through which human-environment interaction is governed.

You’ll become familiar with appropriate research methods and gain the research skills relevant to your dissertation project.

In semester 2, your studies will give you an overview of climate change impact assessment and predictions, along with key concerns and strategies of adaptation to climate change.

You’ll explore the relative significance of main sources of greenhouse gases and the potential, technologies and strategies for reducing them.

You’ll develop an understanding of the key challenges for controlling greenhouse gas emissions, alongside the critical political issues related to mitigation.

During semester 3, you’ll propose and undertake an extended research project leading to the submission of a 12,000-word dissertation in August.

This dissertation gives you the opportunity to examine the detail of an issue of your choice.

When completed on a part-time basis, the course runs for 24 months, with each year split into 3 semesters. You will take complusory and optional modules in each semester, followed by an extended research project leading to the submission of a 12,000-word dissertation in semester 3 of your final year.

Course structure

Compulsory modules

• Research Methods 15 credits
• Research Project 60 credits
• Environmental Policy and Governance 15 credits
• Climate Change: Physical Science Basis 15 credits
• Climate Change: Impacts and Adaptation 15 credits
• Climate Change Mitigation 15 credits

Optional modules

• Environmental Assessment 15 credits
• International Relations and the Environment 30 credits
• Standards and Tools for Business, Environment and Corporate Social Responsibility 15 credits
• Business, Environment and Sustainability 15 credits
• Introduction to Ecological Economics 15 credits
• Environmental Economics and Policy 15 credits
• Delivering Sustainability Through Projects 15 credits
• Introduction to Sustainability 15 credits
• Critical Perspectives in Environment and Development 15 credits
• Environment-Development Overseas Field Course 15 credits
• Tools and Techniques in Ecological Economics 15 credits
• Terrestrial Biosphere in the Earth System 15 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Climate Change and Environmental Policy MSc Full Time in the course catalogue

For more information on typical modules, read Climate Change and Environmental Policy MSc Part Time in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

You will learn through a variety of teaching methods to help you develop both generic and subject-specific skills.

This includes lectures, practical workshops, field trips (UK and overseas), computer lab sessions, research seminars and project work (individual and groupwork).

Practical exercises focus around real-world scenarios and case studies to produce optimal solutions including familiarisation with state-of-the-art technical approaches, software and the regulatory regimes that companies and public sector organisations operate within.

The research-intensive environment of the School ensures that your course material is both up-to-date and research led.

You'll also learn the scientific and rational principles lying behind the practical approaches used in the world outside academia, so that your skills keep pace with changes in technology or the regulatory environment.

You also have access to the excellent research seminars and talks run by the School of Earth and Environment and its research centres, plus those organised by School of Geography and School of Politics and International Studies.

Facilities

The School of Earth and Environment’s £23m building gives you access to world-class research, teaching and facilities.

Assessment

You will be assessed through a variety of ways including both written and oral assignments, exams and poster presentations.

Read less

Visit our website for more information on fees, scholarships, postgraduate loans and other funding options to study Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change at Swansea University - 'Welsh University of the Year 2017' (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017).

The MSc in Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change course places particular emphasis on recent global and regional environmental and climatic change, the scientific basis and limitations of models and data collection techniques. It combines the international research strengths of staff within the Departments of Geography and Biosciences around environmental and climate dynamics (processes and mechanisms involved in stability and change), marine and ecosystem biology, and environmental management and sustainable development.

Graduates from the Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change course will have extensive knowledge of the current scientific issues underpinning climate change and environmental and ecosystem dynamics, and the practical problem solving, ICT and communication skills required for a successful career in the environmental service industry, regulating bodies or academia.

Students of the MSc Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change at Swansea will benefit from exceptional computing facilities that include fifteen dual-processor workstations for Earth Observation, a 20-node multiprocessor Beowulf cluster, and the Department’s IBM ‘Blue Ice’ supercomputer, used mainly for climate and glaciological modelling.

The aims of the Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change programme are:

To provide advanced training in understanding the scientific issues associated with environmental dynamics and climatic change,

To provide graduates entering the environmental service industry or a regulating body with the required practical problem solving, ICT and communication skills; as well as a basic knowledge of current climate policy and environmental management,

To provide graduates continuing their academic career with the required subject specific and transferable skills.

Modules

Modules of the MSc Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change ‌programme include:

Climate Change

Core Science Skills

Satellite Remote Sensing

Principles of Environmental Dynamics and Climatic Change

Please visit our website for a full description of modules for the Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change MSc.

Fieldwork

The Stackpole residential field course introduces Environmental Dynamics and Climatic Change programme students taking the “Principles of Environmental Dynamics” to some of the major themes of the module: environmental systems, sea-level change and human impact on the environment, in a congenial setting in Pembrokeshire. The environmental issues facing the Stackpole Estate are discussed and placed into a historical perspective through lectures and the analysis of long term environmental records.

Research

The Department of Geography aima to be one of the foremost international centres for research in human and physical geography, and to provide our students with excellent teaching and superb facilities in a friendly atmosphere.

The results of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 show that Geography at Swansea University is ranked joint 9th in the UK for research impact and 11th in the UK for research environment.

Research groups include:

Environmental Dynamics

Glaciology

Global Environmental Modelling and Earth Observation

Migration, Boundaries and Identity

Social Theory and Urban Space

We host a large community of postgraduate researchers studying for PhD degrees, and run one-year MRes, MSc and MA courses.

Facilities

The Department of Geography is well-resourced to support research: there are two dedicated computer laboratories: One of 24 computers in conjunction with Library and Information Services (LIS) providing general IT software and programmes dedicated to Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing; One of 10 high-performance Linux workstations delivering software tools for advanced GIS and remote sensing applications.

We have specialist laboratory suites for: stable-isotope ratio analysis; tree ring analysis; extraction and identification of organic compounds; pollen extraction and analysis; rainfall simulation; tephra analysis; soil and sediment characterisation.

In addition, we have recently spent £1.8million on state-of-the-art teaching spaces, including IT facilities, laboratories and flexible teaching spaces.

Student profiles

I originally came to Swansea University to study for a BSc in Geography. Although this course covered a wide range of both human and physical topics that were all very interesting and provided a broad spectrum of skills from GIS and remote sensing to environmental modelling, my main interest was in the physical aspects. I graduated in 2007 with a 1st Class BSc (Hons) in Geography and wanted to continue my studies into the field of climate change. I decided that the MSc in Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change would be an appropriate route to take in order to pursue this field. The MSc in Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change focused on many characteristics of the global environment, like impacts on ecosystems, and how the varying processes associated with climate change can be monitored, measured and modelled. This choice of topics was complimented by the fact that the modules were run by lecturers working at the cutting-edge of global environmental change. The culmination of what I learned over the course of the year was put into practice with the dissertation, which allowed me to focus on an area of particular interest. The group of friends that I had on the course were brilliant and I will take away a lot of fond memories of our time together at Swansea. Now, after finishing the MSc in Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change I have a job working for the National Oceanography Centre in Southampton".

David Hamersley, MSc Environmental Dynamics and Climate Change

Read less

The Strathclyde LLM in Climate Change Law & Policy will provide you with a timely qualification and highly specialised knowledge in an ever-growing field of law and policy.

The course is taught through a combination of two residential sessions at New Lanark Mill Hotel and at the University campus in Glasgow city centre.

The flexibility of the course allows you to undertake this exciting programme within one to three years while continuing with your current professional role.

It's a useful qualification for anyone working in areas such as government, international organisations, law firms and consultancies, the banking and insurance sector, electric utilities, and research, educational and advocacy organisations. It also provides an excellent opportunity for recent graduates in law and other relevant disciplines to start out your career in an exciting growth area.

Study mode and duration:
- LLM: 12 months full-time; up to 36 months part-time
- PgDip: 9 months full-time; up to 36 months part-time
- PgCert: 4 months full-time; up to 36 months part-time

See the website https://www.strath.ac.uk/courses/postgraduatetaught/climatechangelawpolicy/

Expert teaching staff

The LLM is delivered by leading experts in the field of climate change law and policy coming from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds. They'll provide you with practical insights and inside knowledge.

Venues

The first residential session will take place at the New Lanark Mill Hotel in New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located not far from Glasgow and Edinburgh. The second residential session will take place in Glasgow in the University's Technology and Innovation Centre. LLM candidates will be hosted in a nearby hotel, within walking distance of the Centre.

We believe that these venues will provide the perfect mix. A secluded environment during the first residential session will enable the group on the programme to get to know each oher. During the second session, participants will have the chance to experience the University and get to know the city.

Our students

The current cohort is made up of professionals from across the globe currently working in roles such as an administrative law judge, research associates and senior partner in law firms.

Learning & teaching

The LLM is delivered through a combination of distance learning using the University’s virtual learning environment and two compulsory weeks of seminar-based learning.

Each module can also be taken as a specialised course.

- September
You’ll attend an intensive one-week long (Monday to Saturday) residential session where you’ll follow two core modules:
- Climate Change & International Law
- Comparative Climate Change Law

- September to December
You’ll work from home on the assignments for the two above-mentioned modules and on a third core module - Research Methods & Skills.

- January
You’ll attend a second intensive one-week long residential session where you’ll follow two elective modules from:
- Equity & Adaptation or Carbon Markets & Climate Finance
- Forests, Land Use & Climate Change or Sustainable Energy Governance

- January to May
You’ll follow a third module chosen between Climate Change & Litigation and Climate Law & the Global Economy. Both are delivered entirely online. You’ll also work from home on the assignments for the two above-mentioned elective modules and the third online elective module.

- May to September
You’ll work on a dissertation, provided you’ve passed the necessary credits.

- October
If you’ve accrued the necessary amount of credits, you’ll be awarded the LLM in Climate Change Law & Policy.

Assessment

The course will be assessed mainly by written assignments.

Entry requirements

For the Strathclyde LLM in Climate Change Law and Policy we're in a position to waiver the official University post-graduate English language proficiency requirements. If you do not have a IELTS certificate, we will gauge your level of English on an ad-hoc basis in order to determine whether your level of English is sufficient. Since participating on the Strathclyde LLM in Climate Change Law and Policy does not require students to stay in the UK permanently, participants will be required to gain a visitor’s Visa, and not a student Visa (Tier 4).

Pre-Masters preparation course

The Pre-Masters Programme is a preparation course for international students (non EU/UK) who do not meet the entry requirements for a Masters degree at the University of Strathclyde. The Pre-Masters programme provides progression to a number of degree options

To find out more about the courses and opportunities on offer visit isc.strath.ac.uk or call today on +44 (0) 1273 339333 and discuss your education future. You can also complete the online application form, or to ask a question please fill in the enquiry form and talk to one of our multi-lingual Student Enrolment Advisers today.

Careers

The skills that you’ll acquire through the LLM in Climate Change Law & Policy will allow you to confidently move into the ever-growing field of climate change law and policy.

The course may be of interest to:
- professionals within the public sector already working in or interested to move into the energy/climate change field in national governments
- professionals within the private sector already working in or interested to move into the energy/climate change field within electricity utilities, in specialised law firms, in consultancy firms or in the banking and insurance sector
- professionals already working in or interested to move into the energy/climate change field within non-governmental organisations, research centres and academia
- recent graduates from relevant subjects keen to move into the climate change/energy legal and policy field

Read less

This MA Programme (please see separate description for the MSc programme) provides students with the theories, methods and skills to analyse climate change from different historical, cultural and social perspectives, enabling students to better understand how people in different settings around the world make sense of climate change and the different ways they respond to it.

Key benefits

- Direct access to world experts and their networks

- Part of a diverse and stimulating community of scholars

- Located in the heart of London; internships available

- Collaborative project work for student dissertations

Please visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/climate-change-history-culture-society-ma.aspx

Course detail

- Description -

The MA starts from the premise that since the idea of climate change has penetrated into all aspects of human life, a fully cultural analysis of climate change and its responses is necessary to gain understanding, beyond that offered by scientific, political and economic analyses. This demands the study of a wide range of human beliefs, attributes and practices: peoples’ worldviews and values, the different ways knowledge is made, narratives of development and environmental change, the changing nature of expertise and cultural performances. This MA Programme therefore provides an introduction to all of these topics, as well as introducing students to the social status of contemporary climate change science

The Programme equips students to analyse different public discourses of climate change in developed and developing countries and to understand and critique how climate knowledge is used in different national political cultures.

Core modules:

- Practising Social Research
- Climate Change and Culture
- Climate: Science and History
- Dissertation

- Course purpose -

This master’s programme starts from the premise that since the idea of climate change has penetrated into all aspects of human life, it is no longer possible to adequately understand and address the risks posed by climate change through only scientific, political and economic analysis. The programme is intended for humanities and social science students who wish to gain knowledge and skills in climate change and environmental science, or for students with a science background who wish to deepen their knowledge about historical and cultural aspects of climate change.

- Course format and assessment -

TBC

Career propects

This MA is designed to prepare students for careers working in the many public and private sector organisations which have to deal with the human causes and consequences of climate change. The Programme develop students’ understanding of the intersection between climate change and culture, and cultivates transferable skills suitable for policy-facing organisations, cultural institutions, international and national governmental and non-governmental organisations and environmental consultancies. The Master’s programme also develops the necessary knowledge and research skills for students who wish to undertake PhD research on the human dimensions of climate change.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

About Postgraduate Study at King’s College London:

To study for a postgraduate degree at King’s College London is to study at the city’s most central university and at one of the top 20 universities worldwide (2015/16 QS World Rankings). Graduates will benefit from close connections with the UK’s professional, political, legal, commercial, scientific and cultural life, while the excellent reputation of our MA and MRes programmes ensures our postgraduate alumni are highly sought after by some of the world’s most prestigious employers. We provide graduates with skills that are highly valued in business, government, academia and the professions.

Scholarships & Funding:

All current PGT offer-holders and new PGT applicants are welcome to apply for the scholarships. For more information and to learn how to apply visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/pg/funding/sources

Free language tuition with the Modern Language Centre:

If you are studying for any postgraduate taught degree at King’s you can take a module from a choice of over 25 languages without any additional cost. Visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/mlc

Read less

Programme description

Based upon our highly successful on-campus MSc Carbon Management, this online programme utilises a blend of interactive content, videos, virtual case studies and online discussions to explore the science and business responses to climate change.

We examine the leading ways in which the global climate change challenge can be addressed, covering adaptation and mitigation solutions across a wide range of sectors and regions. The programme is designed for those with a passion for tackling climate change and who require the flexibility that online learning provides.

Online learning

This programme is delivered as flexible part-time study using our online virtual learning environment. You will learn from academics working at the leading edge of carbon management and climate change.

The lectures are all delivered online through our virtual learning environment. The lectures are delivered as a series of short video segments, animated slides and accompanying reading resources and links.

Each week students and staff also meet online to discuss issues, questions and ideas with the group.

As a student of one of our online learning programmes, you will:

• have the flexibility to study when most convenient for you
• be able to study from anywhere with an internet connection
• have access to all University services and relevant academics
• become part of a rich and varied online community of people in your field
• learn the latest developments from people working at the leading edge in your field
• study for an internationally-recognised Postgraduate Certificate

Programme structure

This programme takes one year to complete (September to July), with one course per semester.

The programme comprises three compulsory courses that move from the science of climate change and its impacts, through the key adaptation and mitigation solutions, to examination of the business response to climate change, and the risks and opportunities it represents.

The compulsory core courses typically are:

• Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation
• Climate Change Mitigation
• Climate Change and Corporate Responsibility

All courses are subject to change.

With this Postgraduate Certificate you can choose to:

• study it as a standalone qualification
• combine it with our Postgraduate Certificate in Carbon Innovation to form a Postgraduate Diploma in Carbon Management
• study it as one third of our MSc Carbon Management

Read more about our related online qualifications:

• PgCert Carbon Innovation
• MSc Carbon Management

Career opportunities

Our existing MSc Carbon Management boasts excellent relationships with relevant employers, as well as a great alumni network covering more than 25 nations and providing unrivalled opportunities to link up on research projects and find new positions in the field of carbon management.

The main employment sectors for our graduates are those of climate change consultancy, renewable energy and carbon management project development, and government and NGO climate change advisors. Several of our graduates are also now studying for climate change-focused PhDs.

Read less

Climate change is a multifaceted issue, with relevance across a wide range of economic sectors and policy areas. The MSc Climate Change offers you the chance to take a truly interdisciplinary approach to your study in climate change, engaging with academic, professional and popular literature. The programme will equip you with an understanding of climate change and how this challenge is being tackled by governments, business and other organisations. You will be able to critically evaluate scientific scenarios of future climate and associated impacts, assess the effectiveness of different policy approaches, and determine suitable business responses to the climate change challenge.

You will also explore the key debates and ideas from a range of viewpoints, balancing science, policy and business practice. The course is designed for both climate change practitioners wishing to further develop their understanding of key issues, and those hoping to move into this fast-developing sector. As the programme is offered through part-time, evening, face-to-face study, it provides a distinctive opportunity for practitioners to combine study with their career.

The 5 compulsory modules - Climate Change, Environment and Policy, Sustainable Business Practice, Energy and Climate Change, and Research Methods - give a comprehensive grounding in key topics and an opportunity to reflect on practice at both individual and corporate levels.

These compulsory courses are complemented by a wide range of option modules, which allow you to pursue your own interests. Alternatively, you can elect to take option modules that lead to Institute of Environmental Managers and Assessors (IEMA) Associate Member status.

In addition, you will receive training in research methods and complete a research project, involving in-depth study of real challenges arising from climate change.

Staff teaching on this programme

Dr Becky Briant
Dr Melissa Butcher
Dr Paul Elsner
Dr Aideen Foley (Programme Director)
Dr Diane Horn

Why study this course at Birkbeck?

The MSc Climate Change will give you an advanced understanding of climate science, policy and business practice, meeting the needs of both climate change practitioners and those hoping to move into this fast-developing sector.
Successful completion of the relevant modules allows you to become a Member of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), a non-profit membership organisation that promotes best practice standards in environmental management, auditing and assessment. IEMA supports the professional development of individuals involved in the environmental and sustainability profession in the public, private and non-governmental sectors.
Find out more about studying at Birkbeck and what our students say about our geography- and environment-related programmes.
Listen to an introductory lecture: 'Climate Change and the River Thames' (delivered by Becky Briant).
The programme allows you to pursue your own interests, undertaking in-depth research in a sector of your own choosing.
Our location in central London offers excellent access to a wide range of research resources, including the Birkbeck Library, the LSE Library of Political and Economic Science (LSE), the Royal Geographical Society and Senate House Library (University of London).
The Department of Geography, Environment and Development Studies has contacts with many public and private sector organisations, professional bodies and researchers at other academic institutions, which can lead to important networking opportunities.
We offer an excellent range of student support services.
Our academic staff are experts in their respective fields, publishing and teaching in a wide range of topics including climate modelling, renewable energy, flooding and coastal adaptation.

Read less

There is a pressing national and international need to understand the nature and consequences of climatic change and to develop adaptation strategies. The UCL Climate Change MSc provides rigorous scientific and vocational training for the next generation of climate change professionals.

Degree information

The programme provides you with a knowledge and understanding of the Earth system (incorporating the atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, lithosphere) and the nature and causes of climate variability and change. It combines observationally based climate and environmental science with state-of-the-art modelling, specifically concerned with understanding the impacts of climate change. It seeks to place climate change within the context of broader anthropogenic environmental change and social policy dimensions.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consist of four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits). A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, full-time nine months) is offered. A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, full-time 12 weeks, part-time one year) is offered.

Core modules
-Climate Dynamics
-Models in Environmental Science
-Past Climates
-Global Environmental Change

*modules running are dependent on staff sabbaticals

Optional modules
-Biological Indicators of Environmental Change
-Climate Modelling
-Coastal Change
-Cities and Climate Change
-Environmental GIS
-Impacts of Climate Change on Hydro-ecological systems
-Non-biological Indicators of Environmental Change
-Ocean Circulation and Climate Change
-Politics of Climate Change
-Terrestrial Carbon: Modelling and Monitoring
-Surface Water Modelling
-Other MSc modules offered across UCL may be taken at the discretion of the MSc convenor.

*availability of modules is dependent on staff sabbaticals.

Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of approximately 12,000 words and an oral presentation.

Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, tutorials and laboratory and computer-based practical classes. Assessment is through independent project work, practical-based and written coursework, and the dissertation.

Careers

The programme provides an ideal foundation for PhD research, or for employment with a wide range of private industries, non-governmental organisations, government agencies and environmental consultancies. Graduates have gone on to careers in the commercial, non-profit and academic sectors. Examples include government policy implementation, sustainability consultancy, science communication and research. A significant proportion of students go onto further study such as a PhD.

Top career destinations for this degree
-Policy Manager, Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC)
-Science Communicator, Science Museum / London Transport Museum
-MSc in Environmental Economics, University College London (UCL)
-PhD in Hydrology, University of Leeds

Employability
Climate change is big issue with many governmental, non-governmental and commercial cosequences. This programme will give graduates an edge when applying for jobs in the private sector relating to adaptation and mitigation - such as the insurance industry and carbon monitoring companies respectively. It also provides a great stepping-stone to a PhD.

Why study this degree at UCL?

As one of the world's top universities, UCL excels across the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities. The MSc is run by UCL Geography, which enjoys an outstanding international reputation for its research and teaching.

The Climate Change MSc brings together the strong expertise of the department, offering a distinctive blend of fundamental climate science, environmental modelling, impacts and adaptations, delivered from both natural and social science perspectives.

By bringing together students and researchers we aim to create a vibrant and informal academic environment of mutual discovery and ongoing debate.

Read less

Overview

The MSc in Climate Change at Maynooth University is offered by the Department of Geography to provide Graduates with the knowledge, skills and experience necessary to enable them to undertake analysis of both global and Irish related climate change science, impacts and policies. The MSc was first offered in 2008–09 due to the need for trained graduates in meeting the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in the areas of simulating future climates, impacts modelling, developing mitigation and adaptation strategies and decision making under uncertainty.

The MSc in Climate Change is a fulltime postgraduate programme running from the commencement of the first semester to the submission of a research thesis (end of July). The course provides a well-integrated and encompassing programme of taught modules that reflect the major themes of climate change, together with essential technical training in modelling and analysis and are designed to nurture independent and critical thinking on climate change issues.

Course Structure

The course provides a well-integrated and encompassing programme of taught modules that reflect the major themes of climate change, together with essential technical training in modelling and analysis and are designed to nurture independent and critical thinking on climate change issues. The course is delivered using a variety of techniques from traditional lectures, seminars, and workshops with the emphasis firmly placed on integrating cutting edge research into the delivery of the MSc.

Career Options

This course is designed to equip students for further research in aspects of climate change modelling and impact analysis or who wish to pursue careers in areas in environmental management for which climate change considerations are necessary. It is also suitable for those in mid career with an appropriate background who wish to upgrade their skills in these emerging areas.

How To Apply

Online application only http://www.pac.ie/maynoothuniversity

PAC Code
MHN56

The following information should be forwarded to PAC, 1 Courthouse Square, Galway or uploaded to your online application form:

Certified copies of all official transcripts of results for all non-Maynooth University qualifications listed MUST accompany the application. Failure to do so will delay your application being processed. Non-Maynooth University students are asked to provide two academic references and a copy of birth certificate or valid passport.

Find information on Scholarships here https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/study-maynooth/postgraduate-studies/fees-funding-scholarships

Read less

The world’s climate is rapidly changing due to global warming, and will continue to do so for the decades and centuries ahead. This poses major challenges for future agricultural systems to provide food and other bioresources for the 9 billion people that will occupy the planet by 2050.

The 1 year MSc in Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS) provides students with the skills and tools for developing agricultural practices, policies and measures addressing the challenge that global warming poses for agriculture and food security worldwide.

The MSc CCAFS programme is a partnership with the international CGIAR Research Programme on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), which is led by the CGIAR and Future Earth, and currently involves over 700 partners worldwide http://www.ccafs.cgiar.org.

Graduates of the MSc CCAFS programme will be equipped to pursue roles associated with local, national and international efforts to promote sustainable agricultural production, global food security and climate change adaptation.

There is now a growing recognition of how different agriculture systems can contribute to climate change, past and present. Hence, the dual challenge of adapting future agricultural systems to climate change, must also include mitigation of the effects of agriculture on climate change.

The MSc in Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS) is aimed at students who want to combine scientific, engineering, technical, social or policy skills so that they are better equipped to understand and make significant contributions regarding adaptation and mitigation of climate change impacts on global agriculture and food security.

As the climate change challenge for sustainable development and sustainable business on the planet intensifies, there will be a need in all organisations for personnel skilled in both climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies/approaches for the development of greener economies, agrifood systems and low-environmental footprint supply chains.

Graduates of the MSc CCAFS will be well positioned and competitive for positions in research, policy, enterprise, business, administration and other activities across a wide range of public and private sector institutions internationally. Career mentoring, advice, strategy and facilitation will be provided to all students on the MSc CCAFS to ensure that MSc CCAFS graduates rapidly enter employment in relevant institutions and activities where they can build from their interests, experience and training.

Weblinks:

http://www.plantagbiosciences.org/msc-ccafs
http://www.nuigalway.ie/ccafs/
https://twitter.com/MScCCAFS_NUIG

Read less

MSc Climate Change, Management & Finance is a challenging programme based on the increasing range of issues faced by business leaders. The programme focuses on the area of climate change and sustainability, such as energy efficiency, risk management and insurance, financing future ventures and innovation or reducing carbon emissions.

You will gain technical expertise in finance, economics, innovation, management, marketing and strategy to help you develop an understanding of the challenges and opportunities raised by climate change and the interrelations between these two areas. Armed with deep quantitative and technical knowledge, you will be an asset for successful organisations from a wide variety of sectors, whether large corporations or SMEs, established industrial firms or technological ventures, either in sustainability focused roles or broader business management roles.

The Programme

The programme comprises core modules from a range of subject areas. Given the need to understand the relationship between its two components, the programme has been designed to embed within each module both the business and the sustainability/climate change/ carbon aspect of a topic.

These 13 core modules include:
• Business Economics, Climate Change and the Environment
• Change Management and Leadership
• Clean Tech Innovation and Investment
• Climate Change and Governance
• Corporate Finance and Carbon Finance
• Energy Economics and Strategy
• Financial and Carbon Accounting and Reporting
• Impacts and Adaptation to Climate Change
• Marketing and Sustainability
• Mitigating Climate Change
• Quantitative Methods
• Risk Management and Climate Change
• The Science of Climate Change

These modules are taught over three academic terms, and you will benefit from a balance between teaching and learning through a mix of lectures, seminars, external speakers, discussions group exercises and case studies. Assessment will combine examination, group and individual reports and presentations.

In addition to the core modules, you will have the choice during the summer to undertake either a Group Consultancy Project for a real client or a Work Placement. In both cases, you may also choose to do your project or work placement abroad.

Your final assessment will consist of a 5,000 word Capstone Individual Report. This report will help you put the theory taught in the programme modules into practice, linking your experience on the Group Consulting Project or Work Placement.

Read less

About the Course

Our MSc in Climate Change and Sustainability has been developed around two important principles:

1. the latest academic research from this field, which is used to give you all the necessary knowledge to work on sustainability issues;
2. the skills requirements of employers in the environmental sector, so that you can be sure of your employability.

Whether you want to work in the public, private, charitable or academic sector, our course has the flexibility to give you the focused knowledge and skills that are needed to start, or re-energise, your career.

The programme is based around 5 compulsory modules that provide the essential background to climate change and sustainability. Students then chose 3 optional modules to focus their studies on their particular area of interest e.g. energy, policy and law, environmental management, modelling and data analysis or environmental science. Indeed, our alumni have gone on to work in all these areas.

Aims

We aim to provide students with an interdisciplinary knowledge of the science and potential impacts of climate change across a variety of key areas, including energy, health, business, policy and technology. This is underpinned by a critical understanding of the concept of sustainability as applied to resource and energy use. The course will give you the skills and confidence required to develop creative and evidenced solutions to climate change and sustainability.

In so doing, we aim to meet the changing needs of society by generating graduates able to tackle the challenges presented by climate change, thus preparing them for careers that will span the transition to a post-carbon economy. The course content has been developed in consultation with our alumni, employers and using the findings of national surveys of environmental sector employers (i.e. the NERC Most Wanted Skills survey).

Accreditation

The MSc in Climate Change and Sustainability is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) and the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM). This entitles students to free student membership of the IES and CIWEM. Our teaching team is NUS Green Impact (Bronze) accredited

Scholarships

For our September intake we have 2 specific scholarship schemes available: the Queen's Anniversary Prize Scholarships provide 6 x £3000 fee waiver scholarships to our best applicants (no additional application is required for these); and the £4000 Water Conservators Bursary is awarded to one student who writes the essay on water and the environment (some years we split the scholarship between 2 exceptional applicants). Brunel Univeristy London also has some scholarship schemes available for applicants to any MSc programme.

Designed to suit your needs

The programme can be taken Full- or Part-time (from 2-days or 1-day contact time per week, respectively, depending on the optional modules chosen) and has a start date in September or January.

Employability

Our alumni have gone on to work in key public and private sector organisations as well as more entrepreneurial pursuits. Employability is a major focus within the university with support for transferable skills, CV and application writing, interview skills and opportunities for internships and work placements.

Course modules

Compulsory modules
* Climate Change: Science and Impacts (15 credits)
* Sustainable Development in Practice (15 credits)
* Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation (15 credits)
* Environment, Health and Societies (15 credits)
* Research and Critical Skills in Environmental Science (15 credits)
* Dissertation (60 credits)

Optional modular blocks

Group A (pick 2)
* Environmental Hazards and Risk (15 credits)
* Environmental Management (15 credits)
* Biosphere (15 credits)
* Environmental Modelling (15 credits)
* Renewable Energy Technologies I - Solar (15 credits) (September start only)
* Renewable Energy Technologies II - Wind, Tidal, Wave, Hydroelectricity (15 credits) (September start only)

Group B (pick 1)
* Clean Technology (15 credits)
* Environmental Law (15 credits)
* GIS and Data Analysis (15 credits)

Students normally choose 2 modules from Group A and 1 module from Group B. (If desired, students are also able to choose “1 module from Group A and 2 modules from Group B” or “3 modules from Group A and no modules from Group B” but must understand that this unbalances the 2 terms: 45:75 or 75:45 credits as opposed to 60:60.)

Read less

Climate change is recognised as having potentially huge impacts on the environment and on human society. This programme aims to provide an understanding of climate change causes, impacts, mitigation and adaptation measures from a life science perspective in conjunction with developing a wide variety of mathematical modelling skills that can be used to investigate the impacts of climate change.

The programme closely follows the structure of our Applied Mathematical Sciences MSc. Two of the mandatory courses will specifically focus on understanding the issues related to climate change and are taught by the School of Life Sciences.

Students will take a total of 8 courses, 4 in each of the 1st and 2nd Semesters followed by a 3-month Project in the summer. A typical distribution for this programme is as follows:

Core courses

Modelling and Tools;
Mathematical Ecology;
Climate Change: Causes and Impacts;
Climate Change: Mitigation and Adaptation Measures;
Dynamical Systems (recommended);
Stochastic Simulation (recommended)

Optional Courses

Optimization;
Mathematical Biology and Medicine;
Numerical Analysis of ODEs;
Applied Mathematics;
Statistical Methods;
Applied Linear Algebra;
Partial Differential Equations;
Numerical Analysis;
Geometry;
Bayesian Inference.

Typical project subjects

Population Cycles of Forest Insects;
Climate Change Impact;
The replacement of Red Squirrels by Grey Squirrels in the UK;
Vegetation Patterns in Semi-arid Environments;
Daisyworld: A Simple Land Surface Climate Model.

The final part of the MSc is an extended project in mathematical modelling the impacts of climate change on environmental systems, giving the opportunity to investigate a topic in some depth guided by leading research academics.

Read less

Overview

Climate change is as much a political issue as a scientific one, and will remain so for the foreseeable future. Those able to understand and address the social, ethical and political challenges it poses will be highly valuable citizens and employees.

This MA draws on both natural and social sciences to set these challenges in context. Core modules cover international agreements, national regulation and policymaking, NGO campaigns, and grassroots activism. Formal and informal responses to climate change are examined from economic, business, scientific, governmental, and civil society perspectives. Students develop an in-depth understanding of the complex relationships between climate politics and related areas of concern such as peak oil, resource depletion, biodiversity, gender, food sovereignty, and environmental security.

The course is hosted in the School of Politics, International Relations and the Environment (SPIRE) and primarily taught by members of the Centre for Environmental Action and Thought (CREATe), the UK’s pre-eminent cluster of environmental politics specialists. Additional expert input is drawn from other academic departments and from experts outside the University.

Keele’s large campus is undergoing a major redevelopment programme with sustainability at its heart. As a student on the MA in Climate Change Studies you will be able to see these exciting developments at first hand.

See the website https://www.keele.ac.uk/pgtcourses/climatechangestudies/

Course Aims

The aims of the course are to enable students to: Think, talk, and write about climate change, and the ways in which it is represented, in a systematic, critical and well-informed way. Understand, evaluate and apply a range of theories about the political consequences of climate change, and appreciate the theory and empirical reality of responses to climate change in their social and political contexts. Develop the ability to conduct and report on their own research using appropriate techniques of scholarship in the social sciences. These research skills are essential for the dissertation, but also give a good grounding for future academic or professional work.

Course Content

Completion of the MA requires 180 credits, obtained through four 30-credit modules and a 60-credit dissertation of 15,000 words. This degree is part of the overarching pathway structure for postgraduate environment degrees at Keele. Students will be eligible to undertake environment-related modules from both SPIRE and the School of Physical and Geographical Sciences.

SPIRE Modules include:
- Dimensions of Environmental Politics (Core)
- Environmental Diplomacy
- EU and the Global Commons
- Green Political Theory
- Environmental Decision-making in the UK
- US Environmental Politics and Policy
- Environmental Movements North and South

Dissertation:
15,000-word dissertation on any aspect of climate change politics, to be agreed with supervisory staff. Students may be able to undertake relevant fieldwork to research the work of an organisation working in the field of climate change.

Teaching & Assessment

Each module is assessed by a coursework essay plus a range of skills-training exercises. Students demonstrating an outstanding level of work will receive their degree with distinction.

Additional Costs

Apart from purchasing textbooks and other sundry material, no significant additional costs are compulsory for this course.

International

SPIRE is a thoroughly international school, and is particularly welcoming to international students, as well as providing plenty of opportunities for home students to broaden their horizons.

We have staff with educational backgrounds in a wide variety of countries, such as Columbia, Canada, Bulgaria, Italy, Austria, Romania, and Turkey, who present their research all around the world. Students have the opportunity to hear visiting lecturers from various different countries, arranged through our ERASMUS partnerships.

International students will join established international communities at Keele, and will find plenty of support mechanisms in place to help them make the transition to study in the UK (see the ‘International Applicants’ button above).

Find information on Scholarships here - http://www.keele.ac.uk/studentfunding/bursariesscholarships/

Read less

About the course

The LLM in Climate Change and Human Rights provides a comprehensive overview of human rights law and how it works in relation to the environment and the urgent topic of climate change. The course balances theory with the urgently practical – for example, combining the necessarily comprehensive detail of human rights legislation with the complex reality of situations of weather change and its impact on the local human population. Subjects of study include climate change law, contemporary issues in food law and policy, human rights law in relation to climate change law and policy, among others.

In addition to specialist subject knowledge, you will cultivate skills useful in a range of employment contexts. You will develop your abilities in critical analysis, team work and presentation. You will be able to identify assumptions, evaluate evidence, detect false logic and reasoning and identify suggestive trends in data – all traits which are prized by employers in every industry.

As a student at Aberystwyth, you will be taught by staff who possess both expertise and experience of law in this fascinating area. Under their personal tutelage, you will enjoy a degree of freedom in directing your own study path through the choice of option modules. In addition, you will explore the subject-specialism of your choice by researching and writing your Master's dissertation. This is your opportunity to select a project topic which has a direct bearing on your professional life and our previous LLM students have found this to be an invaluable opportunity towards establishing a successful career.

The Aberystwyth Law School recently participated in the Research Excellence Framework (2014) assessment. It found that 96.5% of publications submitted were of of an internationally recognised standard and that 98% of research activity in the department was rated as internationally recognised.

This degree will suit you:

• If you want to receive an advanced exposition of climate change and human rights law
• If you wish to study an area of law with urgent contemporary significance and practical relevance
• If you wish to nurture a legal career within government, non-governmental or corporate structures
• If you desire skills highly sought-after in any postgraduate workplace

Course content

Core modules:

Climate Change Law and Policy
Contemporary Issues in Food Policy and Law
Dissertation
International Human Rights Law
Public International Law

Optional modules:

Criminology of International Conflict Personnel
Human Rights, Environment and International Business
Law and Gender
Philosophy of Human Rights Protection

Assessment

Assessment takes the form of; research proposals including a related bibliographic element, case studies, oral assessments and essays. Each student will complete a Master’s dissertation of 15,000 to 20,000 words which deals with an area of chosen study in the third semester.

Employability

Every course at Aberystwyth University is designed to enhance your vocational and general employability. Your LLM will place you in the jobs market as a rigorous legal professional armed with impressive expertise in the latest legal developments in the contentious and urgent field of climate change. In addition, this course will help you to master key skills that are required in almost every postgraduate workplace. You will be pushed to improve your approaches to planning, analysis and presentation so that you can tackle complex projects thoroughly and with professional independence, making you a highly-desirable candidate for a career in government, non-governmental and corporate contexts alike.

Study skills

You will learn to quickly assemble, assimilate and interpret a wealth of legal data regarding climate change and its relationship with human rights, and you will refine your professional practices by engagement with multiple case studies. You will learn how to deploy your knowledge to assert your expertise and build your legal case. These skills in analysis and discourse, supported by your mastery of rigorous methodologies, will stand you in good stead for any specifically legal or more general professional workplace.

Self-Motivation and discipline

Studying at LLM level requires discipline and self-motivation from every candidate. Though you will have access to the expertise and helpful guidance of departmental staff, you are ultimately responsible for devising and completing a sustained programme of scholarly research in pursuit of your Master’s degree. This process will strengthen your skills as an independent and self-sufficient worker, a trait prized by most employers.

Transferable skills

The LLM programme is designed to give you a range of transferable skills that you can apply in a variety of employment contexts. Upon graduation, you will have proven your abilities in structuring and communicating ideas efficiently, writing for and speaking to a range of audiences, evaluating and organizing information, working effectively with others and working within time frames and to specific deadlines.

Read less