Masters Degrees (Polar)

The aims of the course are to provide an understanding of key contemporary research problems in a range of disciplines in either the humanities and social sciences or physical sciences relating to the Arctic and Antarctica, and for students to undertake original research on a topic selected in consultation with members of staff.

Taught material is presented in the Michaelmas Term, usually in the form of seminars. The material is organized in two strands, suitable for students interested in the humanities and social sciences or in the natural sciences. It is examined through the submission of three essays, which can take the form of research papers. In the Lent and Easter terms students carry out research towards their dissertations. Dissertation topics are agreed with supervisors and are closely integrated with the ongoing research activities of the Scott Polar Research Institute (SPRI). Students are expected to participate in internal and external research seminars, and a research forum.

See the website http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/directory/eaggmpmps

Course detail

The outcomes of the course are achieved both through focused study of specialised aspects of research on the Arctic and Antarctic, either in terms of Arts and Humanities or the Sciences, and through the development of research skills and methods. The following outcomes of student learning are sought:

Knowledge of ideas: Students gain familiarity with an appropriate range of intellectual and methodological traditions relevant to the study of the Arctic and Antarctic. For the humanities and social science strand, students draw on material from Geography, Anthropology, Political Science and other social sciences, and understand the significance of different epistemological positions that provide the context for research. For the physical sciences strand, students will become familiar with theories and empirical work from, amongst other areas, the fields of glaciology, oceanography and atmospheric science. They will gain knowledge and understanding of the field-based, remote sensing and modelling techniques used in polar science research. The teaching is provided via lectures and seminars, research supervision via bi-weekly meetings between students and their supervisor and sessions concerning research skills. Students also attend the research seminars held in their research groups. This allows exchange of ideas and debate with more experienced academic researchers and their peers;

Critical skills: Students become skilled and critical readers of Arctic and/or Antarctic publications and data sets. This is achieved through structured reading associated with each module, as well as via supervision on the essays and dissertation;

Substantive knowledge of ideas: Students gain in-depth knowledge of substantive areas of Arctic and/or Antarctic research. This knowledge is gained in the modules on The Emerging Arctic, Northern Peoples, Polar Remote Sensing, Glacier and Ice Sheet Dynamics: Present and Past. Students gain an in-depth knowledge either of underlying patterns of development, conservation and cultural transformation in the Arctic and/or Antarctic regions, or of the physical processes at work in these regions, how these have changed in the past and are changing currently, and the methods and techniques for investigating them;

Research design skills: Students develop their capacity to frame research questions, to derive appropriate research designs, and develop awareness of different epistemological approaches. This is achieved through the ‘Research Training’ sections of course;

Practical research skills: Students gain a competence and confidence in using a range of qualitative and/or quantitative methods for gathering, analysing and interpreting data. This is achieved through the ‘Research Training’ sections of course and the dissertation;

Presentation skills: Students gain skills in the presentation of research-based evidence and argument. Students are expected to take an active role in the research seminars of the research groups to which they belong and to contribute actively to seminar discussions. They are also expected to present their dissertation aims, methods, preliminary results, and plans for future work at a student forum held part way through their dissertation research period;

Management and other transferable skills: Students gain skills in managing a research project, and its execution (including, where appropriate, elements of data management, understanding ethics and codes of good practice in cross-cultural research, understanding uncertainty, disseminating research). Several of these elements are taught in the ‘Research Training’ sections of course, and then are extended and applied via the dissertation research, which has individual supervision from an experienced researcher.

Assessment

- 20,000 word dissertation that, at the discretion of the examiners, can include an oral examination on the thesis and the essays and on the general field of knowledge.
- Three essays or other exercises of up to 4,000 words each.

Continuing

70% overall in MPhil.

How to apply: http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/applying

Funding Opportunities

AHRC for Arts and History topics approved by the AHRC DTP at University of Cambridge.

General Funding Opportunities http://www.graduate.study.cam.ac.uk/finance/funding

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About the course

This new and exciting programme is aimed at training graduates from a range of scientific disciplines who wish to pursue a research career in cold-regions science, notably within the disciplines of glaciology, glacial geomorphology, polar climatology/ oceanography, environmental science, polar biogeochemical processes, or their intersections.

The programme’s underlying theme is contemporary, as its key interest is to explore the expressions, mechanisms and impacts of rapid ongoing changes in our planet’s cold regions.

Your career

You’ll develop the skills to work in private or public sector research, or join the civil service. Recent graduates have started careers in consulting or with organisations like CAFOD, the Environment Agency and the British Library. Many of our graduates stay on to do research. We have a high success rate in securing funding for those who wish to study for a PhD with us after finishing a masters.

Study with the best

This is a vibrant postgraduate community, with strong international links. Our research partners are global, from UK universities to institutions in southern Africa, Denmark, Iceland, Australia and the USA. Our teaching is invigorated by work from several interdisciplinary research groups, like the Sheffield Centre for International Drylands Research, the Urban and Regional Policy Research Institute and the Sheffield Institute for International Development.

How we teach

Our staff are active researchers at the cutting-edge of their fields. That research informs our masters courses. As well as the usual lectures and seminars, there are practicals, lab classes, field trips and research projects.

Facilities and equipment

A new £1m Sediment-Solute Systems lab enables geochemical analysis of aqueous and solid phases, especially in the context of biogeochemistry. We have equipment for chromatography, UV spectrometry and flow injection/auto analysis.

Our sample preparation facilities enable digestion, pre-concentration by evaporation under vacuum, and tangential flow filtration. There are alpha and gamma counters, a laser particle sizer and a luminescence dating lab. Field equipment includes automatic water samplers, weather stations, data loggers and environmental process characterisation sensors.

We have high-quality petrological microscopes for examining geological samples. We have labs for spectrometry and for palaeontological preparation, and you’ll also have access to specialist facilities in other departments at the University.

Laptops, camcorders, tape recorders and transcribers are available for your fieldwork. Our postgraduate computer labs have networked workstations for GIS research and climate modelling, ARC/INFO, ERDAS software and specialist software for remote sensing. GIS facilities are also provided by the £5m Informatics Collaboratory for the Social Sciences.

Our new postgraduate media GIS suite has facilities for Skype, video conferencing, web design, video editing and creative media.

Fieldwork

Most of our courses involve fieldwork. The MPH, MSc and MA International Development take students on a 10-day field trip where they put their research skills into practice. Recent classes visited the West Pokot region of Kenya, urban and rural areas of Nepal, the suburbs of Cairo and India.

Core modules

• Research Design in Analysis of Environmental Systems
• Current Issues in Polar and Alpine Science
• Arctic/Alpine Field Course
• Polar and Alpine Change Research Project

Teaching and assessment

Modules are delivered through a mixture of lectures, seminars, workshops and independent study.

The Research Project is assessed by oral presentation of mid-project findings, submission of a project report in the summer and by a poster presentation of project findings.

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Join us for our Master Open Day to find out more about our courses.

This Masters will prepare you in the physical sciences and mathematics for a research career in climate, atmospheric or environmental sciences. It ideally bridges the gap between undergraduate studies in physical/natural sciences and engineering, and study for a PhD.

Alternatively, if you decide to leave academia, the highly transferable skills gained from this course could lead to a research role in industry or government.

Gain a broad overview of physical problems in climate and atmospheric science, together with a sound physical understanding of natural processes. Alongside this, develop highly transferable skills to conduct research in these subjects with a strong emphasis on quantitative data analysis and physical and numerical modelling.

A career in scientific research is always interesting – sometimes exciting – but might not suit everyone. This course provides an excellent opportunity to get a taste of postgraduate research study and decide whether it is really the career for you.

Course highlights:

Interact with academics who are at the forefront of major global issues. Leeds is a leading centre of excellence across both the physical science of the climate and atmosphere science, and the resultant socio-economic impacts and processes:

National Centre for Atmospheric Science (NCAS), one of six research centres funded by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), providing its core atmospheric research.

Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science (ICAS) is the UK’s most diverse academic institute for atmospheric research.

Priestley International Centre for Climate Change (PICC) a world-leading centre for policy-relevant, solution-driven climate research.

Centre for Polar Observation and Modelling (CPOM) is a research centre that studies processes in the Earth's polar latitudes that may affect the Earth's albedo, polar atmosphere and ocean circulation, and global sea level.

Develop your research skills – you will be regarded as a researcher in the School and expected to work closely with ICAS staff as well as presenting at the annual ICAS Science Conference along with academics and doctoral researchers.

Continue on to a PhD, or move into a research role in industry or government. Highly numerate graduates with training in independent research are widely sought after in many sectors.

The School's £23m building gives you access to world-class research, teaching and laboratory facilities, and dedicated computer facilities – many of which will be available to you throughout your studies.

You will be regarded as a researcher within the School and be expected to work closely with ICAS staff as well as presenting at the annual ICAS away day along with academic staff and doctoral researchers.

Programme team

Be taught by staff from across the School, primarily from ICAS. Your programme manager is Dr Ryan Neely (ICAS) who also teaches as well as regularly supervises your research project and provides tutorial support.

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With the increased awareness of global burdens such as humanitarian crises and sudden onset disasters, more than ever there is a need to be delivering healthcare in highly complex and demanding situations.

This unique programme is delivered in partnership between the University of Exeter Medical School and World Extreme Medicine, the world's leading provider of specialist training courses for medics taking their skills into challenging environments.

This is medicine at its best, crossing geographical and professional boundaries.

You will learn the practical skills, knowledge and understanding needed to perform at the highest possible level in the field of extreme medicine.

You will learn with and from your peers. Residentials are a key part of the programme; designed to provide the challenge of learning in an unfamiliar environment and relying on the collaboration and support of the other participants.

The residentials include locations in the UK as well as environment-specific modules located in mountain, jungle and Polar Regions.

This programme is suitable for those from a wide variety of backgrounds. Students have included:

• Paramedics
• Medics
• Nurses
• Medical scientists
• Allied healthcare
• Military medics

You will be working or looking to work in situations of rapid change and uncertainty and you will be looking to demonstrate capabilities that extend beyond clinical competence into areas such as leadership, communications, teamwork, resilience, humanitarian relief, planning and logistics.

The programme's foundations are rooted in the core values of collaboration, challenge, community, impact and rigour, embedded firmly within the University’s mission to make the exceptional happen, by challenging traditional thinking and defying conventional boundaries.

Programme structure

You will critically examine the challenges of providing safe and effective healthcare in a range of challenging environments. You will focus on both the evaluation of health issues to be expected in the field and the planning and preparation phase for any remote or wilderness activity. Key to the programme is that you learn to recognise and evaluate the unique ethical, professional and legal challenges of delivering medical care in challenging environments. The programme will develop in you, the skills necessary to evaluate research literature, and manage the challenge of implementing health interventions where evidence may be weak or conflicting.

A key part of the programme are the short residential courses designed to provide the challenge of learning in an unfamiliar environment and relying on the collaboration and support of the other participants.

Expert tutors will facilitate group discussions and project work and provide support for independent learning. Assessments are designed to provide opportunities for personal reflection, critical appraisal, evaluation and analysis to demonstrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the programme.

Learning

Throughout this programme you will critically examine the challenges of providing safe and effective healthcare in a range of challenging environments. Key to this learning to recognise and evaluate the unique ethical, professional and legal challenges of delivering medical care in these environments.

You will undertake a number of residential courses to help you develop these skills, as well as giving you the opportunity to learn with and from your peers.

Expert tutors will facilitate group discussions and project work and provide support for independent learning. Assessments are designed to provide opportunities for personal reflection, critical appraisal, evaluation and analysis to demonstrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the programme.

Modules and delivery

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.

The programme has a modular structure and consists of three modules for the PG Cert, with a further 60 credits of modules for the PG Dip, and the addition of the 60 credit MSc research project for the full MSc.

For the PgCert, the following are residential modules;

• Core Concepts in Extreme Medicine;
• Pre-hospital Trauma, Assessment and Treatment
• Human Factors – Situational Awareness.

Some examples of the modules under development for the PgDip and MSc are as follows;

• Pre Hospital Trauma Care;
• Maternal and Children’s Health;
• Mountain Medicine ;
• Polar Medicine ;
• Jungle Medicine ;
• Applied Research methods ;
• Disaster and Humanitarian Medicine Theory and Practical Pre hospital emergency care ;
• Obstetrics and Gynaecology and maternal and child health, in remote areas
• Research/Dissertation .

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In the Master’s in European Politics and External Relations, you will analyse politics and power in Europe. The programme focuses on the challenges of Europe as a part of an increasingly interdependent, globalised and multi-polar world. You will be given the analytical, theoretical and empirical tools to develop a deeper understanding of the EU’s role as an international actor. You will also gain knowledge on both internal and external dimensions of EU policies such as for example the economic crisis, challenges surrounding security, the environment, the refugee crisis, the rise of populism, trade as well as the EU’s role in its immediate neighbourhood and the world and many more topics. Our teaching is research-led and our programme offers access to seminars and debates of the research community of ACCESS Europe. During past years, European Politics and External Relations track students were given the opportunity to attend a study trip to Brussels, which included meetings and discussions in key EU institutions.

The European Politics and External Relations programme provides students with a thorough understanding of the politics and power of Europe in an increasingly diverse, interdependent, and multi-polar world. It offers in-depth study of the internal and external dimensions of European politics and their interrelations. Internally, it takes a historically grounded approach to processes of European integration, democracy and citizenship. Externally, it focuses on understanding and analysing the power of Europe in a changing global environment, for example in relation to borders, security, conflicts, trade, finance and environmental governance.

• Do you wonder how the EU relates to other global players? How it acts upon Russian involvement in the Ukrainian crisis, deals with transatlantic relations in post-Snowden times, or engages with political transformations in the Middle East and North Africa?
• Are you interested in how the economic crisis in the eurozone affects the European Union’s internal governance and its position in the world? What does deeper integration within the eurozone mean for national democracy, the risks of Brexit and relations with major trading partners like the US and China?
• Do you want to know how old and new security threats (like migration, global warming, energy dependency, new wars) challenge, unite and divide EU member states? Would you like to understand how the EU responds to social and political instability in its own direct neighbourhood? 

Student profile

You have a fascination for European politics in a global context in all its facets. This fascination extends to the current political developments of the EU, as well as the state-of-the-art of theorizing EU power and politics. The programme is intensive and rigorous. You are expected to develop a capacity to work independently and in group settings. Most teaching is in small seminars (max 25 students) in which you are expected to contribute actively, and in which your skills of analysis, presentation, teamwork and critical questioning are developed. In addition, you learn to undertake an individual and high-level research project.

The European Politics and External Relations programme prepares you for a career in (European) policy making, diplomacy, work with a non-governmental organisation (NGO), consultancies, and businesses, as well as academia. For more information, see the webpage on career prospects.

Why study European Politics and External Relations at the University of Amsterdam?

The University of Amsterdam, a major research university, offers a Master’s programme taught by one of the highest ranking political science departments in continental Europe. The Graduate School of Social Sciences (GSSS) of Amsterdam provides a vibrant and international academic community. The GSSS values diversity in both research and academic content, academic staff and the student population. European Politics and External Relations:

• is research-oriented: you learn about your teachers’ research projects and you develop and apply your theoretical and methodological skills in the framework of research projects;
• is unique in combining study of the internal politics and external relations of Europe and the European Union: it examines how the European institutions interact with the dynamics of global power;
• offers an international classroom and works closely together with the Amsterdam Centre for Contemporary European Studies (ACCESS EUROPE) meaning that students have access to debates, lectures and events delivered by the best European studies scholars in the world and by high-level EU policy makers and officials.

Degree certificate

European Politics and External Relations is a track of the accredited degree programme Political Science. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a legally accredited Master’s degree in Political Science and the title Master of Science (MSc).

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The MSc in Marine Ecosystem Management is a one year course run by the School of Biology and provides students with a superior understanding of integrated marine systems, exploring the interconnections between the physical environment, biodiversity and the impacts of human activity and resource use. The programme takes a holistic approach to understanding ecosystem goods and services, and draws on the quantitative and diverse academic expertise within the University's Scottish Oceans Institute (SOI). It is designed to prepare students for professional careers in research and management of marine ecosystems.

Highlights

• Modules include intense training in quantitative techniques (for example, statistical modelling and GIS).
• Students have the exciting opportunity to conduct fieldwork and training in Antarctica or Indonesia as part of the optional modules in polar ecology or scientific diving.
• The combination of core modules and a personalised selection of advanced optional modules allows students to tailor the programme to their individual interests.
• Stimulating, small class sizes with a focus on student-led, experiential learning.

Teaching format

The modular curriculum is designed to be coherent, providing integrated training for future careers in marine management or scientific research. Teaching takes the form of lectures, tutorials, discussions, debates and workshops. Practicals involve laboratory work, field excursions, modelling and computer-based data analysis.

Class sizes range from 5 to 30 students, depending on the activity. There is a strong focus on small-group teaching so that students are individually supported and can ask for help when it is needed.

In Semester 2 there are optional field courses: a polar field course in Antarctica or a tropical scientific diving course in Indonesia.

From June to August, students focus solely on their research project leading to the submission of a 15,000-word dissertation.  

For more information about the course, please visit our website.

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MSc Environmental Governance critically analyses some of the key environmental challenges of our time, exploring the connections between environmental governance and policies and the production, distribution and consumption of resources.

The course will develop your ability to apply sophisticated, critical and interdisciplinary sustainability and environmental theories at multiple scales and in different geographical contexts.

As part of the course, you'll have the unique opportunity to collaborate and engage with cutting-edge researchers and world-leading experts on environmental governance, political ecology, Marxist political economy and urban sustainability. You will learn from real-world practitioners, and liaise with external organisations on live policy problems.

This makes MSc Environmental Governance an ideal choice for:

• future leaders interested in pursuing a career in environmental policy regulation and urban sustainable management
• those wishing to develop further their academic career by pursuing a PhD
• environmental professionals wishing to deepen their knowledge.

Aims

• Interdisciplinary and sophisticated academic rigour: The course is highly interdisciplinary, exposing you to ideas and practices developed in a range of subject areas such as geography, environmental studies, politics, economics and development studies, rather than one alone. Our curriculum covers theories and interdisciplinary practices of environmental governance and offers you a comprehensive introduction to how human-use of the non-human world is organised at multiple scale and what the effects of this are.
• Inclusive and collaborative research environment : The degree offers collaboration with the internationally renowned Society-Environment Research Group (SERG) . This group involves more than ten researchers from the School of Environment, Education and Development , with distinguished records of theoretical, empirical and applied research in a range of geographical and environmental settings. This includes work on water and energy governance in Europe, Africa and South-East Asia; social, environmental and climate justice and equity in Central and Eastern Europe, smart cities and urban sustainability in the UK - to name but a few.
• Knowledge transfer and employability : We combine training in theory and critical thinking with more practical and applied elements. Our range of `real world' practitioners gives you the opportunity to liaise with external organisations on live policy problems and enhance your employability.

Teaching and learning

Part-time Study

Part-time students complete the full-time programme over 27 months.  There are NO evening or weekend course units available on the part-time programme, therefore if you are considering taking a programme on a part-time basis, you should discuss the requirements with the Programme Director first and also seek approval from your employer to have the relevant time off. Timetabling information is normally available from late August from the Programme Administrator and you will have the opportunity to discuss course unit choices during induction week with the Programme Director.

Coursework and assessment

Eight taught units comprise two-thirds of the programme. The remainder of the programme consists of a 12,000 word dissertation on an approved topic. Typical course units comprise two hours a week of seminar or small-group work. Together these units involve a range of formative and summative assessments, including individual and group work, oral presentations and long essays, project work and reports. Coursework is designed to allow you to pursue your particular areas of interest. 

In the summer semester, you work independently to undertake dissertation work based on primary and/or secondary data, or else a more philosophical/theoretical dissertation. We encourage you develop research in collaboration with members of the Society and Environment Research Group and external organisations.

Course unit details

Core course units

• Key Debates in Environmental Governance - Introduces the main (and often competing) approaches to environmental governance in play today, ranging from `free market environmentalism', environmental modernisation and ecological economics, to the `risk society' perspective and green governmentality.
• Issues in Environmental Policy - Links theory and practice by focusing on different types of environmental policy measures (their logic, operation and outcomes), and is taught by way of real world case studies drawn from the research literature and the work of policy practitioners locally, nationally and globally.
• Doing Environmental Research - Provides advanced research skills and encourages you to plan and design your dissertation/research review projects. The course introduces you to a range of both research and career options appropriate to the skills acquired on the course, including planning research projects and preparing and writing a detailed proposal for dissertation/research review.

Past dissertation projects

Every year we have a range of different dissertation topics that reflect students' research interests. For illustration, this list presents some past dissertation topics:

• The Nature of Industrial Preservation: Mapping Gentrification in New Islington, Manchester
• Exploring the (post)political nature of urban climate change governance: a study of Manchester: A Certain Future
• Multi-actor Partnership for Environmental Governance: An Investigation from the Perspective of Bangladesh
• Transition Impossible? A Post-Political Analysis of the Transition Movement
• Representation of Nature in Environmental Campaigns: The Visual Case of Greenpeace's #SavetheArctic Polar Bear
• From government to governance in an age of austerity: an evaluation of new land management partnerships to fit a new economic era for the Peak District National Park
• The urban commons and the scalar politics of climate activism
• Manchester Certain Future Forum: Success of network partnerships in promoting sustainability behaviour change.

What our students say

"From the very start, I found all the staff extremely friendly and helpful. There was always someone to speak to, no matter what the problem - as someone who came into studying this subject from a very different undergraduate degree, this made my transition much easier. It also helped that the teaching staff have a real passion for the subject, which I found infectious and inspiring."

Oliver Gibbons, MSc Environmental Governance

Facilities

The Arthur Lewis Building provides excellent resources including analytical laboratories, studio facilities, workshops, seminar rooms, an on-site cafe and dedicated computer clusters including GIS facilities.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: [email protected]

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Want to be at the forefront of scientific research into microbes and their role in developing new medicines, tackling diseases and improving the environment?

Northumbria is the only UK university to offer Microbiology as an individual discipline, giving you the opportunity to develop specialist knowledge and break new ground as a scientist.

Gain hands-on, immersive experience, in high tech facilities, working alongside leading academics. Advance your expertise in clinical and environmental microbiology, studying how viral and bacterial diseases work and how you can use microbes to create new medicines.

You’ll cover microbial taxonomy, bioinformatics and molecular biology, using bacteria and viruses to develop new technologies and substances through data analysis and genome sequencing.

With opportunities to develop your theoretical knowledge, advance your own research, and increase your profile through articles and publications, this course equips you for further PhD study or for a career in microbiology.

This course is also available part time - for more information, please view the web-page: https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/courses/microbiology-dtpmgy6/

Learn From The Best

Specialising in a wide range of research areas, from developing enzymes for pharmaceutical, chemical and food industries, to life in extreme environments, your academic team reflect the varied, multi-disciplinary nature of microbiological science.

Tutors are active researchers in their chosen specialisms and share their knowledge through teaching, scientific conferences and publications. Many have established relationships with professional microbiology organisations and lead policy and practice within the profession.

Combining industry experience and research expertise, you’ll benefit from their knowledge and real-life insights as you develop your skills and understanding.

Teaching And Assessment

You’ll enhance your knowledge of this broad subject matter through in-depth, research focused and real-life learning.

You’ll gain skills in applying tools, techniques and methods related to molecular biology, microbial culture and classification and in functional analysis of microbial and viral genomes.

With an emphasis on individual learning and problem solving using the latest research, as part of the course, you’ll undertake a research project based on a currently relevant question. This will allow you to develop your particular specialism or interest and focus your study on practical research.

You’ll be assessed on your ability to apply your subject knowledge to real-world challenges in the form of assessment tasks as well as being measured in key laboratory skills.

Module Overview
AP0700 - Graduate Science Research Methods (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0701 - Molecular Biology (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0702 - Bioinformatics (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0703 - Subject Exploration (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0706 - Microbes and Disease (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0707 - Microbial Diversity (Core, 20 Credits)
AP0708 - Applied Sciences Research Project (Core, 60 Credits)

Learning Environment

You’ll get hands-on experience in our large, modern well-equipped laboratories with audio-visual facilities that help you observe, learn and question techniques and ideas.

High-tech wet and dry labs which are fully equipped for molecular biology manipulations are available to help you work on your own research projects.

While some modules are conventionally taught, you’ll benefit from a mixture of learning experiences including lectures, small group seminars and laboratory sessions, adding a practical edge to your theoretical understanding.

Research-Rich Learning

The internationally recognised and well-established group, led by Professor Iain Sutcliffe, apply scientific approaches to aspects of healthcare and extend understanding of diseases.

Research areas include:
-Bacterial cell envelope architecture and biosynthesis
-Control of parasitic arthropods
-Microbial diagnostics (in collaboration with Applied Chemistry)
-Microbial enzymes as biocatalysts (through our Nzomics Innovation Unit, in collaboration with Applied Chemistry)
-Molecular ecology and microbial community analysis in human health (COPD, cystic fibrosis and necrotising enterocolitis)
-Molecular ecology and microbial community analysis in the environment (Lake Suigetsu, Japan; Polar environments) and in agricultural management
-Genomics and proteomics of prokaryotes
-Novel antimicrobials (in collaboration with Applied Chemistry)
-Systematics and taxonomy of bacteria
-Virulence determinants in pathogenic streptococci

Microbiological and virological based techniques to study; virus-host interactions and phage genomics (through our Nu-omics). Research is funded by companies, charities and research council grants.

Give Your Career An Edge

This course has been designed to help you develop specific knowledge and practical skills in Microbiology based on work-related learning. Teaching and assessment throughout the course is based on problem solving linked to a practical approach to current research.

You’ll have opportunities for work-based learning and to be an ambassador for STEM activities, gaining valuable professional experience and applying your knowledge in real-world situations.

Your research project provides a chance to showcase your interests and ability to define, formulate and test a hypothesis through careful experimental design, method development, data capture and analysis and communicating your findings.

You’ll be able to demonstrate transferable skills valued by employers including critical thinking, working as part of a group, data mining and record keeping, alongside problem solving, independent learning, and communication with both technical and non-technical audiences.

Your Future

The MSc Microbiology course will support and inspire you to high achievement in employment or further education and research in your chosen specialism.

Building on your theoretical knowledge with practical and laboratory skills you’ll show that you can tackle complex problems with confidence, skill and maturity as you develop key strengths in critical thinking and expressing opinions based on evidence.

The practices and procedures of Microbiology and Virology, together with logical thinking, attention to detail and a questioning mind will equip you with skills suitable for a range of careers in human health and disease, environmental studies and industrial or biotechnical industries.

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IN BRIEF:

• This course is CSP accredited. It will significantly enhance your skills as an independent, reflective practitioner
• Gain confidence in implementing new practice that is reasoned, evidence-based and holistic
• Take individual modules of relevance to your area of professional practice
• Part-time study optionInternational students can apply

COURSE SUMMARY

If you’re a physiotherapist looking to bring your clinical and critical-reasoning skills up to an advanced level, you should strongly consider taking this course.

What you learn will have broad application in patient-management, and will enable you to thoroughly evaluate your professional practice.

You also have the option of taking individual modules from the course, many of which are relevant to health professionals from a wide range of backgrounds. Some of these modules can also be mapped into our other courses.

COURSE DETAILS

This course can either be taken over one year full-time or three years part-time. This allows for flexibility in study. Each module is available as a stand-alone course in its own right, and will be relevant to a wide range of health professionals including occupational therapists, podiatrists, chiropractors, sports therapists and strength and conditioning coaches.

There is the possibility of a short three day work experience opportunity. Please note that this will incur a small additional fee.

The programme is also able to potentially offer a short observational placement for international students, by arrangement.

TEACHING

The programme of study is delivered through:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Practical sessions
• E-learning

You can take this course on a full or part-time basis. On the full-time course, you’ll study two modules in the first two semesters and attend the University on the Wednesday and Thursday of each week. On the part-time course, you’ll attend the University for two days on alternate weeks. Please note: international students are only able to apply for the full-time route.

You’ll also be expected to pursue self-directed study. The material you’ll need for this can be accessed via our virtual learning environment, Blackboard.

CAREER PROSPECTS

This course will boost your career prospects and broaden your skills portfolio. You’ll have the opportunity to choose modules and assignment topics of relevance to your interests and area of professional practice. Graduates of the MSc may also choose to pursue an academic or research-based career path.

LINKS WITH INDUSTRY

The Access Partnership contributes to the Professional Business Management for Health Professionals module. The objective is to deliver teaching and learning material that is appropriate for clinicians who require professional and management skills, such as project management, preparing business cases and marketing services.

The partnership is made up of a team of NHS managers and clinicians with high level strategic and operational experience. As a team they offer a host of practical business skills which are vital in today's health care arena.

FACILITIES

We have some of the best facilities in the UK, including our comfortable plinth rooms, Human Performance Lab and gait analysis rooms. Our purpose-built laboratory is probably the best in the country and contains almost every type of physiological and biomechanical equipment you can imagine including:

• 9 AMTI Force Plates, 5 of which are situated in a 40m running track
• ProReflex 10 Camera real-time motion analysis system which can be integrated with force plate data using Qualysis software. Primarily this is used for clinical studies on patients with gait problems. It can also be used by Sports Scientists to analyse athletes performance and technique. We also use a range of Digital Video and High Speed Digital Video cameras along with Quintic software for the same purpose
• KinCom Isokinetic Dynamometer for muscle strength testing
• EMG (electromyography) system used to measures the electrical activity of muscles and to gather information about the muscular and nervous systems
• Esaote AU5 Ultrasound used to study skeletal muscles, tendons and ligaments
• Laveg Speed Gun which is used to determine speed of sprints

We have a range of cycle and rowing ergometers, two treadmills, and two online gas analysis systems. There is also an off-line gas analysis system for use with Douglas Bags.

We can perform blood analysis with our Analox GM7 Multi-Assay Blood Analyser to measure blood lactate, glucose and a range of other blood substrates.

There is also the Reflotron which another multi-use system that can measure blood cholesterol and haemoglobin as well as portable blood glucose and lactate analysers.

In addition we have the usual equipment found in exercise physiology labs :

• Polar heart rate monitors
• Harpenden skinfold callipers
• Wingate tests
• Hand grip dynamometers
• Height, weight monitors
• Jump mats

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IN BRIEF:

• This course will give you the opportunity to take a lead role in sports injury rehabilitation
• Theoretical content is available online so you can study at a time convenient to you
• High practical content means you’ll develop the skills that will impress employers
• Part-time study option

COURSE SUMMARY

This course will further the knowledge, skills and abilities of sports rehabilitators, sport therapists, physiotherapists and other allied health professionals currently working in the area of sports injury rehabilitation and prevention.

This was the first exercise rehabilitation masters in Europe to be recognised by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) though their recognition programme. The programme is delivered by some of the world's leading experts. The contact sessions on campus, including keynote sessions followed by practical and seminar sessions, are applicable immediately to professional practice and involve a high practical content.

COURSE STRUCTURE

The MSc programme is offered as either a full-time or part-time programme.

The full time course runs over three academic semesters (October through to September the following year), whilst  giving you the chance to exit with the following awards:

• Postgraduate Certificate: completion of one module
• Postgraduate Diploma: completion of two modules
• Masters: completion of two modules plus a dissertation

In order to achieve an award of MSc Sports Injury Rehabilitation you must successfully complete the modules Rehabilitation of Musculoskeletal Injuries and Injury Prevention and Performance Measurement, along with producing a thesis for the dissertation module.

TEACHING

This course is available both part-time and full-time and is delivered via a blended learning approach, which includes:

Workshops (three days per module, per semester)

These are interactive, discursive, reflective, participatory, collaborative and practice related and employ a variety teaching and learning methods. As the programme progresses these will become progressively more student led, with you presenting case studies for peer and tutor review.

Individual Scholarly Activity

Self directed learning, personal reflection, practice based application and reflection, including peer and tutor review.

Distance Learning Resources

Delivery of supporting resources such as study guides and lecture material online. Facilitated group work, including tutor and peer evaluation are a key component of this course. 

Personal Tutor and Peer Support

To provide an academic, practice based and personal support mechanism alongside facilitated networking.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment methods will vary depending on the module, they include:

• Case Studies (written and oral presentations)
• Viva vocé
• Literature review
• Practical assessments
• Journal articles (research reports written in the format of a journal article)
• Research proposal

EMPLOYABILITY

Take a lead role in sports injury rehabilitation with this practice-based course and make a difference to your clients with higher level skills. You’ll also learn how to conduct research and then apply it to the real world, with numerous students successfully publishing their research in peer reviewed journals.

The skills developed within the programme are recognised within organisations such as the English Institute of Sport as critical to the development of key competencies to move through there competency lead career structure.

LINKS WITH INDUSTRY

This course has been developed to include the key competencies identified by the International federation of Sports Physiotherapists in the domains of exercise rehabilitation. It is also recognised as providing key exercise rehabilitation skills by the English Institute of Sport.

FURTHER STUDY

Upon successful completion of the course it would be possible to progress on to a PhD, or a PhD via publication. We offer a range of research degrees relevant to your area of practice.

As a University, we are committed to your continuing professional development. We run short courses and study days throughout the year to keep you at the forefront of developments in Sports Injury Rehabilitation.

FACILITIES

You will have access to some of the best facilities in the UK, including our purpose-built Human Performance Lab, which contains almost every type of physiological and biomechanical equipment:

• FT700 Ballistic Measurement System
• 9 AMTI Force Plates, 5 of which are situated in a 40m running track
• ProReflex 10 Camera real-time motion analysis system
• KinCom and Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometers for muscle strength testing
• Portable Kistler force plate
• EMG (electromyography) system used to measures the electrical activity of muscles and to gather information about the muscular and nervous systems
• Esaote AU5 Ultrasound used to study skeletal muscles, tendons, ligaments and blood flow
• We have a range of cycle and rowing ergometers, two treadmills, and two online gas analysis systems.
• We can perform blood analysis with our Analox GM7 Multi-Assay Blood Analyser to measure blood lactate, glucose and a range of other blood substrates
• There is also the Reflotron which another multi-use system that can measure blood cholesterol and haemoglobin as well as portable blood glucose and lactate analysers.

In addition we have the usual equipment found in exercise physiology labs.

• Polar heart rate monitors
• Harpenden skinfold callipers
• Wingate tests
• Hand grip dynamometers
• Height, weight monitors
• Jump mats & timing gates

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IN BRIEF:

• Gain a higher degree that will qualify you for a lead role in strength and conditioning
• The contact sessions on campus are applicable immediately to professional practice
• Develop the practical skills and professional knowledge that employers ask for
• Part-time study option

COURSE SUMMARY

This course has a strong practice-based element, which means you'll develop the skills you need to pursue a lead role in the field.

Theoretical content is available online, so you won't have to attend University every week. You'll be able to apply your learning to your job and use case studies from your current area of practice. Our staff are experts in the field of strength and conditioning and they often work in partnership with professional sports teams and individual athletes.

This was the first postgraduate programme in Europe to receive international recognition though the NSCA Education Recognition Program (ERP).

COURSE DETAILS

This was the first Strength and Conditioning Masters Degree in Europe to be recognised by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) through their education recognition programme. The programme is delivered by some of the world’s leading experts. The contact sessions on campus, including keynote sessions followed by practical and seminar sessions, are applicable immediately to professional practice and involve a high practical content.

COURSE STRUCTURE

The MSc course is offered on both a full-time and part-time basis.

The full-time course runs over three academic semesters (October through to September the following year), whilst  giving you the chance to exit with the following awards:

• Postgraduate Certificate: completion of one module
• Postgraduate Diploma: completion of two modules
• Masters: completion of two modules plus a dissertation

In order to achieve an award of MSc Strength and Conditioning you must successfully complete the modules Strength and Conditioning and Injury Prevention and Performance Measurement, along with producing a thesis for the dissertation module.

TEACHING

This course is available both part-time and full-time and is delivered via a blended learning approach, which includes:  

Workshops (three days per module, per semester)

These are interactive, discursive, reflective, participatory, collaborative and practice related sessions that employ a variety of teaching and learning methods. As the course progresses these will become progressively more student led, with you presenting case studies for peer and tutor review.  

Individual scholarly activity

Self directed learning, personal reflection, practice based application and reflection, including peer and tutor review.  

Distance learning resources

Delivery of supporting resources such as study guides and lecture material online. Facilitated group work, including tutor and peer evaluation are a key component of this course.

Personal tutor and peer support

To provide an academic, practice based and personal support mechanism alongside facilitated networking.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment methods will vary depending on the module.  They include:

• Case studies (written and oral presentations)
• Viva vocé
• Literature review
• Practical assessments
• Journal articles (research reports written in the format of a journal article)
• Research proposal

EMPLOYABILITY

With the skills you'll learn in this course, you can take a lead role in strength and conditioning and make a difference to the training of your clients. This course will significantly increase your chances of getting a high profile role in top-flight sport.

Graduates are now employed in Premier League and Championship football and paralympic weightlifting. Some graduates have also progressed on to lecturing and doctoral level study.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Al Stewart, was working as a strength and conditioning coach at Manchester City Football Club Academy when he started the MSc Strength and Conditioning, with the aim of gaining a postgraduate degree while gaining additional practical skills and experience to permit him to progress to a more senior role. He is now the Head of Strength and Conditioning for Hull City FC.

LINKS WITH INDUSTRY

This course has been developed to include the key competencies identified by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the United Kingdom Strength and Conditioning association (UKSCA).

FURTHER STUDY

Upon successful completion of the course it would be possible to progress on to a PhD, or a PhD via publication. We offer a range of research degrees relevant to your area of practice.  

As a University, we are committed to your continuing professional development. We run short courses and study days throughout the year to keep you at the forefront of developments in Sports Injury Rehabilitation.

FACILITIES

You will have access to some of the best facilities in the UK, including our purpose-built Human Performance Lab, which contains almost every type of physiological and biomechanical equipment including:

• FT700 Ballistic Measurement System
• 9 AMTI Force Plates, 5 of which are situated in a 40m running track
• ProReflex 10 Camera real-time motion analysis system
• KinCom and Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometers for muscle strength testing
• Portable Kistler force plate
• EMG (electromyography) system used to measures the electrical activity of muscles and to gather information about the muscular and nervous systems
• Esaote AU5 Ultrasound used to study skeletal muscles, tendons, ligaments and blood flow
• We have a range of cycle and rowing ergometers, two treadmills, and two online gas analysis systems. We can perform blood analysis with our Analox GM7 Multi-Assay Blood Analyser to measure blood lactate, glucose and a range of other blood substrates
• There is also the Reflotron which another multi-use system that can measure blood cholesterol and haemoglobin as well as portable blood glucose and lactate analysers.

In addition we have the usual equipment found in exercise physiology labs.

• Polar heart rate monitors
• Harpenden skinfold callipers
• Wingate tests
• Hand grip dynamometers
• Height, weight monitors
• Jump mats and timing gates

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The MSc in Marine Mammal Science is a one-year taught programme run by the Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU), the only UK institution dedicated exclusively to marine mammal research, and draws on the quantitative and diverse academic expertise within the University's Scottish Oceans Institute (SOI). 

Highlights

• Modules include intense training in quantitative techniques (for example, statistical modelling and GIS) and applied research methods, including a field course to practice survey techniques (at no additional cost).
• Students have the exciting opportunity to conduct fieldwork and training in Antarctica as part of the optional module in polar ecology (requiring additional payment of a substantial expedition fee). See the students' Antarctic expedition blog.
• The core curriculum is complemented by advanced optional modules in topical research areas of biologging, bioacoustics, behaviour and cognition, and population biology.
• Stimulating, small class sizes with a focus on student-led, experiential learning.

Teaching format

The course consists of two taught semesters followed by an independent research project culminating in a 15,000-word dissertation and poster presentation. The research project takes place during the entire year with particular focus during the last three months from June to August. 

Teaching takes the form of lectures, seminars, debates, workshops and tutorials. Practicals involve lab work, field work, modelling and computer-based data analysis. Assessment comprises coursework and end-of semester written examinations. Class sizes range from 5 to 30 students, depending on the module.

Further particulars regarding curriculum development.

Modules

The modules in this programme have varying methods of delivery and assessment. For more details of each module, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the latest module catalogue which is for the 2017–2018 academic year; some elements may be subject to change for 2018 entry.

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We actively encourage postgraduate students on this course to undertake internships and build up a portfolio of clients and practical experience.

Course overview

Careers in Sport and Exercise Science can develop in at least two directions. Firstly you can help elite athletes reach their optimum sports performance. Secondly you can help the general population to improve fitness through exercise referral and community programmes.

This course allows you to specialise in both those areas, by providing you with a solid grounding in measurement, evaluation, research methods, data analysis, and sport and exercise psychology. Additionally, you will get the chance to study applied physiology, applied biomechanics or complete a personal project. The final stage is a research project that reflects your developed knowledge and skills.

Compared to undergraduate studies, this Masters has more emphasis on self-directed lab work, data collection and analysis. We encourage you to undertake real-world internships and build up experience with external clients and sports clubs. This practical experience will complement the rigorous research elements of the course.

By the end of the course you will have a portfolio of work, feedback from clients/employers, and a record of practical and academic projects. This will give you a clear advantage when it comes to applying for jobs.

Course content

The course mixes taught elements with independent research and self-directed study. There is flexibility to pursue personal interests in considerable depth, with guidance and inspiration from Sunderland's supportive tutors.

Core modules:
-Measurement and Evaluation (20 Credits)
-Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology (20 Credits)
-Applied Research Methods and Data Analysis (20 Credits)
-Masters Project (60 Credits)

Designated core modules (you must choose one of the following, but you may choose the other as an option):
-Applied Sport and Exercise Physiology (20 Credits)
-Applied Biomechanics in Sport and Exercise (20 Credits)

Optional modules (choose at least one):
-Strength and Conditioning in Practice (20 Credits)
-Sports Injuries, Management and Rehabilitation (20 Credits)
-Applied Weight Management (20 Credits)
-Professional Skills and Practice (20 Credits)
-Independent Learning Project (20 Credits)
-Applied Public Health (20 Credits)
-Brief Interventions (20 Credits)

Teaching and assessment

We use a wide variety of teaching and learning methods which include lectures, problem-based learning seminars, web-based resources, small group discussions and debates. You will develop your practical skills with workshops and laboratory classes.

Assessment methods include essays, case studies, portfolios, oral presentations, scientific reports, practical exams, data analyses, critical reviews, poster presentations and a dissertation.

Facilities & location

We have invested in the latest software and equipment so that you have maximum scope to measure and improve performance. Our facilities will propel your learning in sport and exercise sciences.

Biomechanics equipment

Our equipment can measure motion, muscle activity and forces on the body during high intensity sports and the activities of daily living. Equipment and techniques include the following:
-3D motion capture systems including Vicon® systems and Xsens® motion capture suits
-Software such as Dartfish®, Kinovea® and LongoMatch® software to capture live action images for match tagging and coaching feedback
-Movement tracking tools such as Actigraph® and Catapult®
-Delsys® Trigno electromyography equipment to see how the muscles of the body are working
-Kistler® force platforms and Batak® reaction walls to analyse sporting performance
-Novel® Pedar systems to analyse foot pressure

Exercise Physiology and Psychology
Our laboratories include the most up-to-date equipment for assessing human performance. You’ll get hands-on practical experience with the following:
-Polar® Team2 heart rate monitoring system for assessing the heart rates of a full squad of team players in real time
-Cortex® gas analysers to evaluate cardiovascular performance
-Biochemical analysers from Randox®, Jenway® and Gonotec® to measure substances and enzymes within the body
-Tendo®, Myotest® and Globus® equipment to profile your strength and power and develop specific training programmes
-Fusion Sport® SMARTSPEED light gates for assessing speed, agility and reaction times
-Assess and enhance cognitive performance using our Neurotracker® 3D multiple object tracking equipment

Sports Medicine and Anatomy
Anatomy is taught by experienced staff in a specialist clinical lab using skeletons, anatomical models, 3D software, online material and human subjects. You will learn techniques for sports injury rehabilitation, including the use of sports massage and ultrasound equipment.

You will also examine balance and stability using our Biodex® stability and balance trainer and assess strength imbalances using our sophisticated Biodex® dynamometer and new BTE Primus® rehabilitation equipment. You can investigate how new techniques such as thermal imaging are being used in injury assessment with Flir® IR cameras.

Fitness and Conditioning Suite
In our lab, you'll find fitness and conditioning equipment that would be the envy of most modern gyms. From a wide range of cardiovascular equipment to machine and Olympic weights, you will receive hands-on teaching in a professional environment.

University Library Services
The University library has thousands of relevant books, e-books and journal articles, with many more titles available through the inter-library loan service. We subscribe to useful resources such as SPORTDiscus, which provides journal articles, book chapters and summaries about sport, fitness and related disciplines.

Sciences Complex
This course is based in the Sciences Complex at our City Campus, which has benefited from multi-million pound investments. The IT facilities are excellent and, across the University, there are hundreds of workstations as well as wireless internet access. If you have any computer problems, just ask the friendly helpdesk team.

Sports facilities
Students at Sunderland have easy access to some of the best facilities in the region. These include:
-50m Olympic size swimming pool
-95m artificial ski slope
-Climbing wall with some of the best route setters in the UK
-Football training pitches at Sunderland AFC’s Academy of Light
-Marine Activities Centre for sailing, canoeing, kayaking and powerboating
-LTA indoor tennis centre with 13 indoor and outdoor courts
-Floodlit athletics tracks

CitySpace
Our City Campus features a state-of-the-art facility called CitySpace. It features:
-Sports hall (suitable for hosting large-scale events)
-Fitness suite/gym
-Strength and conditioning room
-Injury prevention and support suite
-Fitness classes
-Climbing wall

Employment & careers

Potential employers of graduates from this course include national sports associations, sports and leisure companies, recreation services, local authorities, health bodies including the NHS, schools and colleges. Job roles include the following (some require further training):
-Sports and exercise scientist
-Performance Analyst
-Sports coach/instructor
-Manager of health promotion initiatives
-Manager of cardiac rehabilitation and exercise referral
-Fitness centre manager
-Personal trainer/specialist fitness instructor
-Lecturer

Recent Sunderland graduates are now working within the fitness industry, sports development and in Further Education colleges.
A Masters degree will also enhance career opportunities within Higher Education and prepare you for further postgraduate studies.

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Today's global community has brought with it unique and unforeseen challenges, from the threat of environmental catastrophe and resource shortages, to infrastructural and economic failure and global terror. Geopolitics and Security at Royal Holloway, University of London equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle these era-defining issues to mitigate the impact of potential crises and foster critical reflections on the strategies and techniques which seek to keep us secure.. 

This flexible Masters programme lets you select from a range of specialist courses to suit your own interests and career ambitions, choosing from options in both the Departments of Geography and Politics and International Relations. Graduates will gain a Masters degree in a discipline offering excellent employability prospects, while professionals seeking further academic training will learn transferable risk management skills ideal for further career development. 

You'll join a vibrant research community and contribute to our renowned research culture with your own independent dissertation project. You’ll benefit from networking and placement opportunities with leading organisations and institutions, enjoy exciting field working opportunities in the UK and abroad, and work with leading researchers and research groups such as our Politics, Development and Sustainability Group in Geography with established track record in grant awards (eg from the ESRC, AHRC, Leverhulme Trust, EPSRC, British Academy, British Council, Falkland Island Government and the EU Marie-Curie fund).

Study Geopolitics and Security at Royal Holloway and you’ll graduate with a range of transferable skills to take with you into the workplace or further study. Learn to reflect on some of the most profound challenges of our times in this exciting Masters programme.

• Benefit from networking opportunities, graduate placements and guest speaking appearances from leading academics.
• Study in a department ranked 2^nd in the UK for research by the Research Excellence Framework 2014.
• Graduate with excellent employability prospects or progress to doctoral study.
• Enjoy exciting fieldwork opportunities in the UK and abroad. 

Course structure

Core modules

• Principles of Geopolitics and Security
• Research Design in Geopolitics and Security
• Dissertation

Optional modules

In addition to these mandatory course units there are a number of optional course units available during your degree studies. The following is a selection of optional course units that are likely to be available. Please note that although the College will keep changes to a minimum, new units may be offered or existing units may be withdrawn, for example, in response to a change in staff. Applicants will be informed if any significant changes need to be made.

• Introduction to Quantitative Research Methods in Politics and International Relations
• Theories and Qualitative Approaches in Politics and International Relations
• Social Science Methods for Political Geography
• Resilience and the Governing of Emergency
• Transnational Security and the Law of Targeting
• United States Foreign Policy
• Contemporary Geopolitics of the Polar Regions
• Media and the Military
• Sovereignty, Rights and Justice
• The Armed Forces and Society
• Non-State Violence as a Challenge to Security
• The Law of Cyber Warfare

Teaching & assessment

Formal and informal assessment is carried out by a variety of methods including coursework, oral and group work presentations, policy, briefing and media reports, video and documentary production, scenario planning and role-play, and a dissertation. Field visits to important sites and organisations, including RUSI, the IMO, the FCO, the RGS and others will also be available, supporting collegial interaction between students and staff. Emphasis is placed on informal assessment (especially through group work) so that students have plenty of opportunities to receive formative support and guidance.

Each year, the group will work on a major week-long project working with a cohort of French Masters students to devise the security planning of a major mega-event.

This programme is delivered in a single stage, equating to either one-year of full-time study or two years part-time, (or up to five years of part-time study by agreement with the Programme Director)

On completion of the course you will have:

• An advanced knowledge and critical understanding of geopolitics and security including core debates, and case studies.
• A detailed appreciation of methods and sources used to investigate geopolitical and security related issues and themes
• High-level skills development especially in communication (including social media), report writing, briefing papers, political debate and critical thinking
• Opportunities to enhance employability through practical experience and exposure to relevant individuals and organizations in the geopolitical/security-related field

Your future career

Geopolitics and Security at Royal Holloway, University of London has a strong emphasis on skills development and employability, putting graduates in an excellent position to progress to further study or a rewarding career in their chosen field. Ideal for both recent graduates and professionals seeking further training, this programme will provide you with excellent field experience, placement and networking opportunities for a career working in commercial or political organisations such as banking, energy, media, think tanks, NGOs and government, where risk (management), threat and insecurity are critical to strategic policy development..

Our recent alumni have progressed to fulfilling careers in government, the media, risk and security consultancies, non-governmental organisations and public organisations both in the UK and abroad. An ideal stepping stone for PhD progression, Geopolitics and Security will help you to achieve your career and academic ambitions. 

• 90% of Royal Holloway graduates in work or further education within six months of graduating.
• Study a programme with a strong emphasis on skills development and employability.
• Graduate with a Masters degree in a field with excellent graduate employability prospects.

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This programme is unique in Europe and beyond. It embraces a holistic, interdisciplinary approach to understanding the roles of humans and their connection to marine ecosystems for survival and prosperity.

This MSc approaches marine systems as an integrated socio-ecological system through focusing on three spheres of marine systems:

• Marine natural systems – exploring diverse scales and functions of key marine biomes, habitats and species, spanning islands, coasts, estuaries, continental shelves, polar seas and global oceans.
• Marine policy systems – examining different approaches to marine spatial planning and governance of marine ecosystems and services, through formal policies, laws and informal customs and practices.
• Marine built systems – exploring ‘blue growth’ opportunities e.g. the ingenuity and impact of human built environments in marine settings, from reshaping coastlines for cities, travel and trade, to the urbanisation of ocean environments through innovations in energy infrastructure.

Programme structure

(Revised 18 October 2017 to provide more comprehensive information). This programme involves two semesters of classes followed by an individual research project. The curriculum consists of compulsory and optional taught courses followed by a period of individual dissertation project work. There will also be local and international field trips.

Compulsory courses typically include:

• Marine Systems and Policies
• Marine Infrastructure and Environmental Change
• Corals in a Changing Ocean
• Marine Field Methods in Research and Practice
• Research Project in Marine Systems and Policies

Option courses:

Through consultation with your Programme Director you will choose three option courses from areas such as:

Policy/society:

• International Law of the Sea
• International Law of the Marine Environment
• Human Dimensions of Environmental Change and Sustainability
• Foundations in Ecological Economics
• Applications in Ecological Economics
• Global Environmental Politics
• Energy Policy and Politics
• Energy and Society

Environment:

• The Ecology of Ecosystem Services
• Ecosystem Service Values
• Water Resource Management
• Values and the Environment

Analytical:

• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Principles of GIS
• Fundamentals for Remote Sensing

Courses are offered subject to timetabling and availability and are subject to change.

Field trips

Our field trips provide site-based learning of both natural and social science practices, a key dynamic of this MSc. The core field trip has historically taken place in tropical locations such as Jamaica and the Maldives.

Career opportunities

This MSc provides a foundation for work up to international level, for government bodies, think-tanks, consulting firms and NGOs where an integrated understanding of marine ecosystems, policies and practice is required.

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