Environmental issues such as eutrophication, habitat degradation and climate change threaten the sustainability of our aquatic resources. Responding to these threats the Aquatic Science MSc equips students with an interdisciplinary understanding of the structure and functioning of aquatic environments, encompassing lakes, ponds, rivers, wetlands, groundwaters, estuaries and shallow seas.
Students focus on integrated freshwater and coastal systems and gain extensive training in field sampling, study design and species identification. Distinctive features include: integration of aquatic ecology with hydro-geomorphology, aquatic landscape ecology, analysis of sediment cores for environmental change reconstruction, design of aquatic monitoring programmes and modelling of aquatic system dynamics. Students come away with a sound knowledge of current-day links between aquatic science, legislation and conservation.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).
A Postgraduate Diploma - four core modules and four optional modules all 15 credits (120 credits, full-time nine months, part-time two years) is offered.
A Postgraduate Certificate - four core modules only at 15 credits each (60 credits, full-time twelve weeks, part-time two years) is offered.
Core modules
* modules running are dependent on staff sabbaticals
Optional modules
Students choose four of the following:
* modules running are dependent on staff sabbaticals
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 12,000 words. Dissertation placement positions are offered linked to external conservation bodies and research-orientated consultancies.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, practical classes, laboratory sessions, case-studies and residential field classes. Assessment is through coursework and the dissertation, which includes an oral presentation of the research proposal.
Fieldwork
Field classes around the UK, these may include trips to Norfolk, Suffolk and the Scottish Highlands.
Optional module Aquatic Macrophytes - approximately £200
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Aquatic Science MSc
This programme provides an ideal foundation for PhD research, or for employment with environmental protection and conservation agencies, the water industry and environmental consultancies.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
The MSc provides students with the science background and practical skills necessary for a career working in aquatic conservation and environmental protection agencies, environmental consultancies and stakeholder agencies. The MSc is also an ideal platform for further PhD study. We aim to expose students to potential employers from the outset and students receive expert tuition in field sampling and monitoring programme design, conservation biology, taxonomy of key species groups, knowledge of important conservation principles and legislation and working with stakeholders.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
The Aquatic Science MSc is run by UCL Geography which enjoys an outstanding international reputation for its aquatic environmental research and teaching. The degree has a strong emphasis on field working with three major residential classes to the North Norfolk Coast, Scottish Highlands and Dorset.
The programme is taught by world-leading researchers specialising in Recent Environmental Change & Biodiversity and Environmental Modelling and Observation which has specialist input from the Thames Estuary Partnership
Speakers from environmental organisations including the UK Environment Agency, the Rivers Trusts, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, the UK Wildlife Trusts, National Trust and Natural England lecture on the programme and take part in fieldwork. By bringing together students, researchers and practitioners, a vibrant and informal academic environment is created encouraging mutual discovery and ongoing debate.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Geography
81% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
Renewable energy engineering is in high demand globally as we find alternate methods of energy harvesting to meet our future energy needs and future proof our reliance on hydrocarbons as much as it is possible to do. Considerable innovation and improvements are continuous within this field as it is by no means at a stage where society can rely on it to fuel all needs. The sector is interdisciplinary and this programme provides you with a wide range of very useful skills and knowledge to problem solve and progress current renewables and work towards innovation whether that is in a renewables company or as a start up.
You study electrical and electronic engineering pertinent to smart grid, sensing energy use, developing energy harvesting techniques, and renewable energy exchange, plus ability to harvest energy from all of our natural resources including wind, solar, hydro, marine, geothermal, biomass and other newly developing areas.Renewables is definitely an employable sector as governments are now challenged by finite resources coming from traditional areas, climate change and societal concerns about how we harvest energy in the future and our ability to survive climatic issues, population increase and manage work and life.
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
• Online option available
Find out about international fees:
Find out more about fees on the programme page
*Please be advised that some programmes also have additional costs.
View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page and the latest postgraduate opportunities
Find out more about:
Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs
Other engineering disciplines you may be interested in:
- Advanced skills and know-how in the latest advanced technologies in power generation through Renewable Energy technologies, for professional or highly-skilled work and/or further learning
- Credibility as an advanced practitioner in Renewable Energy technologies
- Ability to make independent judgments and high-level decisions in a variety of technical or managerial contexts
- The knowledge and skills to be actively involved in the planning, implementation and evaluation stages of a range of Renewable Energy power generation systems
- An EIT Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies
Next intake starts May 02, 2018. Applications now open; limited places available.
The Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies is an advanced program. It is presented at a considerably higher level than the Advanced Diploma and bachelor degree level programs and intending students should be aware of the greater challenge. This Certificate has identical standing and level to that of a university graduate diploma, but is focused on the career outcomes of a professional engineer and technologist. As the title suggests, it has a greater vocational or ‘job related’ emphasis, and focuses more on developing practical skills that you can apply to the workplace, rather than theory alone.
A feature of this program is that in using web collaborative technologies you will not only study and work with your peers around the world on various renewable energy design projects, but you will do this conveniently from your desktop using the latest techniques in live web and video conferencing. The Graduate Certificate in Renewable Energy Technologies focuses on the mainstream technologies viz. photovoltaic, wind and small hydro, but also covers other less common technologies such as biomass, osmotic and tide power generation, among others. The course deals with practical issues of renewable energy that will confront an advanced practitioner in the field. For example, you will be exposed to the modeling and simulation of wind turbines, and the design of wind farms. You will also be expected to undertake advanced design and conceptualisation work in which you will apply the calculations learned in less advanced programs. Some of the work and study you will be undertaking will involve pioneering technology and exploring new approaches. There is a definite ongoing need for highly qualified and skilled specialists in the Renewable Engineering field and this course caters for that need. Upon completing this program you will be able to show technical leadership in the field of Renewable Energy, and be recognised as an advanced practitioner in the field.
Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. Potential students include:
- Practising engineers or technologists with advanced knowledge, experience and education (such as an Advanced Diploma, or undergraduate degree)
- Practising engineers or technicians with demonstrated competence
- Engineers or technologists from another discipline (such as mechanical and chemical engineering) wanting to up-skill in this area
- It would not be suitable for a student with no relevant work experience. We will review your enrolment application and may recommend pre-course studies if required.
The Graduate Certificate is an intensive part-time program, conducted over 6 months. Unlike other universities or academic institutions, we operate almost all year round without extended breaks between semesters. The course is composed of 4 units, each conducted over 6 weeks.
Unit 1 - Fundamentals and Balance-of-Plant Components
Unit 2 - Small Hydro and Other Renewable Energy Technologies
Unit 3 - Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
Unit 4 - Wind Turbine Systems
What are the fees for my country?
The Engineering Institute of Technology (EIT) provides distance education to students located almost anywhere in the world – it is one of the very few truly global training institutes. Course fees are paid in a currency that is determined by the student’s location. A full list of fees in a currency appropriate for every country would be complex to navigate and, with today’s exchange rate fluctuations, difficult to maintain. Instead we aim to give you a rapid response regarding fees that is customised to your individual circumstances.
We understand that cost is a major consideration before a student commences study. For a rapid reply to your enquiry regarding courses fees and payment options, please enquire via the below button and we will respond within 2 business days.
Have you ever wanted to invent something mechanical, prevent environmental damage to a building from floods, fire, explosions, landslides and other natural disasters, understand risks and reliability across buildings, renewables, and other areas? Do you want to improve quality of life across environmental remediation, farming, smart grid, green technology, food production, housing, transportation, safety, security, healthcare and water? Do you find it fascinating to try to make things work from what you have available? There will be plenty of major challenges to get involved with in the coming years crossing over into Nano technologies, advanced materials, electronic printing, grapheme technologies, wearable's, 3d printing, renewables and recycling and biotechnologies. Technology now means that you can design and engineer from anywhere in the world, including your home. Advanced Mechanical Engineering looks at computational mechanics, response to materials and reliability engineering. The Victorians set up some of the most advanced mechanical engineering of our times and in many ways they were the biggest mechanical engineering innovators ever.
This programme specialises in mechanical engineering so you are becoming proficient in designing anything that has background moving parts to allow it to work such as engines, motor driven devices and the effects of nature on mechanical objects and their ability to perform. You also look at how material composition can alter performance issues and provide new innovative methods to solve challenges in every day life and natural and other risks to machinery in all situations. Your employment options are very varied, you may want to work within consumer goods to design and improve everyday objects like white goods, or you may like to be involved in very large scale hydro electric and power driving machinery in energy , manufacturing or large scale developments, or you may decide to get involved in innovation and enterprise yourself.
SEMESTER 1
Optional Courses
SEMESTER 2
Optional Courses
SEMESTER 3
Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
Find out about international fees:
Find out more about fees on the programme page
*Please be advised that some programmes also have additional costs.
View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page and the latest postgraduate opportunities
Find out more about:
Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs
Other engineering disciplines you may be interested in:
If you want to get into renewable energy University of Aberdeen offer an online programme which you can study flexibly to fit around your work, life and anywhere in the world. It is a great way to study a degree from a known and trusted brand with exactly the same content as the on campus version but delivered entirely online.
Renewable energy engineering is in high demand globally as we find alternate methods of energy harvesting to meet our future energy needs and future proof our reliance on hydrocarbons as much as it is possible to do. Considerable innovation and improvements are continuous within this field as it is by no means at a stage where society can rely on it to fuel all needs. The sector is interdisciplinary and this programme provides you with a wide range of very useful skills and knowledge to problem solve and progress current renewables and work towards innovation whether that is in a renewables company or as a start up.
You study electrical and electronic engineering pertinent to smart grid, sensing energy use, developing energy harvesting techniques, and renewable energy exchange, plus ability to harvest energy from all of our natural resources including wind, solar, hydro, marine, geothermal, biomass and other newly developing areas. Renewables is definitely an employable sector as governments are now challenged by finite resources coming from traditional areas, climate change and societal concerns about how we harvest energy in the future and our ability to survive climatic issues, population increase and manage work and life.
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page
or if you want to study on campus find out more
Find out about international fees:
Find out more about fees on the programme page
*Please be advised that some programmes also have additional costs.
View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page and the latest postgraduate opportunities
Other engineering disciplines you may be interested in:
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.
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
* modules running are dependent on staff sabbaticals
Optional modules
Options may include:
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.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Climate Change MSc
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.
Recent career destinations for this degree
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.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
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.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Geography
81% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
There is a growing need for qualified professionals with expertise in environmental modelling. The UCL Environmental Modelling MSc is a cross-disciplinary degree that provides rigorous technical and scientific training for the next generation of environmental modelling professionals.
You will gain a well-rounded training in the role, implementation and application of models in environmental science. Core modules provide a critical perspective on model-based science, and introduce essential computational and numerical methods. The programme is contextualised with reference to the challenges of understanding both natural and human-induced changes to a variety of environmental systems.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits), optional modules (60 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).
A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, full-time nine months, part-time two years) is offered.
A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, full-time 12 weeks, part-time one year) is offered.
Core modules
Optional modules
Options may include:
Other MSc modules offered across UCL may be taken at the discretion of the MSc convenor
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project, culminating 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, written examinations and the dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Environmental Modelling MSc
The programme has been designed to provide an ideal foundation for PhD research, or for employment with environmental monitoring and protection agencies, industry and environmental consultancies. Graduates have gone on to careers as management consultants, business analysts and university researchers.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
Modelling was identified as the highest priority UK skills gap in a government review of the environmental sector. This MSc programme exposes students to the full range of environmental modelling which places graduates in a strong position to find employment. We anticipate that graduates of this MSc are either employed in the private environmental consulting sector or undertake a PhD.
Careers data is taken from the ‘Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education’ survey undertaken by HESA looking at the destinations of UK and EU students in the 2013–2015 graduating cohorts six months after graduation.
The Environmental Modelling MSc is run by UCL Geography which enjoys an outstanding international reputation for its research and teaching. Research groups contributing to the MSc include those concerned with environmental modelling and observation, past climates, and recent environmental change and biodiversity.
The programme draws on the unrivalled strengths of UCL in environment modelling. Our expertise encompasses state-of-the-art global climate models, regional ocean models, advanced hydrodynamic and hydrological simulations, palaeoclimate reconstruction over geological to recent historical timescales, earth observation-derived vegetation and carbon cycle modelling, and model-based assessment of climate change impacts on coastal, estuarine and freshwater systems.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
The following REF score was awarded to the department: Geography
81% rated 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’)
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
The importance of science in understanding disaster risks and the need for science-based strategies at local, national and international levels in the private, public, and third sectors are now widely recognised. The Risk and Disaster Science MSc aims to meet the growing need for experts trained in disaster science in sectors ranging from finance to humanitarian response.
In a science-led programme, students will explore the characterisation of risk from a fundamental understanding of hazard, statistical modelling, appreciation of causes of vulnerability, and quantifying exposure to the management and reduction of disaster risks. There is an emphasis on scientific analysis and statistical methods. Students will enjoy a wide range of taught modules covering scientific, technical, socio-economic, political, environmental, ethical and cultural perspectives.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of six core modules (90 credits), optional modules (to the combined value of 30 credits) and an independent research project (60 credits).
A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, six core modules and two optional modules), full-time nine months, part-time two years, is also offered.
Core modules
Optional modules
Choose options (to the combined value of 30 credits) from a list which may include the following:
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project of 10,000-12,000 words which culminates in a research project and poster presentation.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, practicals, field visits, directed reading and problem-solving exercises and a real-time disaster scenario event, with an emphasis on hands-on learning and tutorial-style dialogue between students and lecturers. Assessment is by independent and group oral presentations, written examination, coursework essays, and the independent project. Practical applications of critical and creative problem-solving will be encouraged and assessed throughout.
Fieldwork
Students are responsible for their subsistence and travel costs within London when on fieldwork. All other travel and fees will be paid for or reimbursed by the IRDR
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Risk and Disaster Science MSc
For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website.
This programme provides excellent training towards careers in industry and commerce, research, research communication and public policy including insurance, catastrophe modelling, finance, risk management, business continuity, humanitarian assistance, engineering, electricity distribution and many other fields. It supports the career development of professionals already working in risk and disaster reduction, as well as those who intend to go into this field.
Employability
This programme will equip students with scientific and analytical skills to better understand and assess disaster risks and to identify solutions to reduce those risks. These skills are highly sought after in the private, public and NGO sector, and in specific fields such as catastrophe modelling, risk management, and public policy.
Career destinations of IRDR graduates include: an international economic consultancy in the field of micro-finance; a consultancy role in disaster risk for an insurance company; the World Food Programme; Rescue Global – a London based NGO; and a PhD studentship.
The UCL Institute for Risk and Disaster Reduction (IRDR), where teaching for this programme is based, leads and co-ordinates multidisciplinary research, knowledge exchange and advanced teaching in risk and disaster reduction across UCL.
UCL is uniquely well placed to lead research and teaching in this field; in addition to academics across seven faculties involved in world-class research, UCL IRDR has established links with scientific leaders in NGOs, industry and government departments based in and around London, who contribute to teaching and project supervision.
As a student, you will be encouraged to join our active seminar series, high-profile public discussion meetings and networking events.
The IRDR runs a careers and opportunities forum for students; this has been attended by insurance companies, catastrophe modelling firms, NGOs, academic institutions, and headhunters in the field of risk and disaster reduction.
Develop the skills to manage international projects successfully. With growing global competition and increasingly complex regulatory structures, international project managers can make a major impact on an organisation's efficiency, and are in high demand.
GCU's MSc International Project Management was designed by senior industry practitioners and leading academic experts. It is delivered by a teaching team experienced in delivering project management expertise spanning all five continents.
Available full-time, part-time and distance learning, the programme offers an elite and highly relevant credential for international project managers. It's accredited by four prestigious international professional organisations; the Association for Project Management (APM), the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Project Management Institute (PMI).
Prepare for success as a professional project manager by acquiring the tools to deliver high-quality projects on schedule, on budget and according to scope. You'll also master the skills to manage projects across international borders.
Choose from three areas of specialisation:
No matter which area you choose to emphasise, you'll develop meaningful knowledge and skills that are highly relevant to the real-world challenges faced by communities across the globe. You'll be able to help build a more successful, sustainable society, making a positive impact and contributing to the common good.
Energy forms a critical component of our daily lives and its demand is set to grow by 35% by 2035. It is an industry that will continue to grow and evolve in the foreseeable future.A career in energy will involve tackling important issues such as climate change and improving sustainability as well as developing new sources of fuel.
Energy modules include:
Energy Audit and Energy Asset Management
This module focuses on techniques for auditing and managing the amount of energy used in a range of industrial processes. The module will provide an understanding of the strategies and procedures of energy audit and energy asset management. Using case studies throughout, the module will present energy audit, managing energy usage, factors affecting energy efficiency on plant, and cost benefit analysis of introducing alternative strategies and technologies. It will also address the efficient use of other commodities, for example water consumption.
Renewable Energy Technologies
Renewable energy is regarded as an integral part of a sustainable development strategy. This module concentrates on the renewable energy technologies most likely to succeed in the UK and other temperate countries, i.e. solar energy, energy from waste, wind, hydro and biomass. Topics for discussion include: the scale and variability of resources; technologies for exploitation; technical and economic feasibilities; integrated (hybrid) systems. Software tools will be explored for design and analysis of renewable energy systems.
Developed with the support of the CITB Construction Industry Training Board, the programme is designed to meet the increasing demand for innovative and far-sighted construction managers.
It offers a choice of modules covering the wide variety of skills that modern construction professionals need. This comes from a growing drive to find sustainable and environmentally sound construction methods and innovative management practices to replace traditional procurement routes and management methods.
The programme covers the skills that modern construction professionals need in order to meet the challenges of the industry. It provides recent graduates and experienced professionals with an outstanding opportunity to upgrade their skills in order to enhance their career choices.
Construction modules include:
Strategic Management in Construction and Property Enterprise
The module develops insight into the strategic decision-making processes necessary for organisations to establish and meet organisational goals. It also examines the types of strategies and how they may be successfully utilised. Contemporary analytical techniques are reviewed and evaluated. Factors which influence Corporate Strategy are considered and contextualised in relation to the construction and property industry and constituent enterprises.
The oil and gas industries are widely affected by a growing range of factors, including shifting global economics, an evolving global energy mix and environmental issues. There is an increasing demand for those working in the industries to develop an intelligent awareness of this complex business environment and to grasp the ways in which these changes will affect organisations.
The professional project manager must deliver projects on schedule, on budget, to scope and with the right quality. This MSc develops the multi-faceted skill set needed to successfully manage international projects in the oil and gas industry.
Oil and Gas modules include:
The Oil and Gas Industry
This module introduces the student to the fundamental principles and activities within the global oil and gas industry. This includes legal ownership of hydrocarbon reserves, strategic investments, and the processes involved in upstream and downstream activities within the oil and gas industry. Aspects of health and safety standards will also be introduced in the module.
Oil and Gas Contracts and Disputes
This module will provide the student with an understanding of procurement and contract administration in a modern international oil & gas environment based on the main contracts. The module will examine the various methods of resolving disputes arising under contracts at law, through statutory legislation and by agreement: Litigation; Arbitration; Adjudication; ADR including Conciliation, Mediation, Negotiation, Comparison of cross border/international methods of dispute resolution particularly in relation to arbitration and adjudication.
The new African Studies degrees at UCL draw on world-leading research and expertise from across the university relating to the study of Africa, and offer a unique opportunity to choose one of four distinct pathways. The African Studies with Environment MSc focuses on contemporary environmental issues including water supply, agricultural systems, climate change and settlement growth.
The degree pathways share a common core, comprising modules on the continent’s political and economic past and present, together with training in research methods. In addition, the Environment pathway explores aspects of human-environment interaction, through a range of advanced optional modules drawn from the Departments of Geography, Anthropology, Archaeology, and the UCL Development Planning Unit.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of three core modules (45 credits), three optional modules (45 credits), and a dissertation (90 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Students choose three from a range of options including the following:
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 words. This dissertation must focus on a research question related to African environmental issues.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars and guided independent research. Assessment is through essays, portfolio, research proposal and examination.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: African Studies with Environment MSc
Graduates will be well placed to take up positions with national and international policy-making bodies, non-governmental development organisations, environmental agencies and within national ministries.
Employability
Students will develop skills in research and research ethics, thematic debate, environmental data analysis and GIS, archival work, ethnographic field techniques and presentation.
UCL offers a unique teaching and learning environment in which to study the continent of Africa. More than 35 permanent members of UCL academic staff focus their research primarily on Africa and their field activities span the continent.
African Studies marks the first time existing expertise on Africa at UCL has been combined to offer an interdisciplinary degree.
The core degree programme interweaves the study of the pre-colonial past, the colonial era, and the post-colonial present, with an eye to the future. Modules are arranged thematically around ‘debates’, with lectures presenting a long-term view of issues to frame subsequent seminar discussions. A core reasearch module introduces students to key research skills incuding qualitative and quantitative data analysis, GIS and spatial analysis, enthrography and interviewing, archival research and project design.
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions. The 2014 REF was carried out by the UK's higher education funding bodies, and the results used to allocate research funding from 2015/16.
Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
