This MA degree programme is designed for students who wish to explore the social dimensions of risk and resilience. The Department of Geography is especially well-suited to examine these in relation to environmental hazards, climate change and security-related risk, but students are encouraged to develop their thinking in relation to any aspect of risk research, including broader environmental change, disaster risk reduction, financial risk, risk and insurance, risk and health, risk and migration, risk and social policy, risk and governance, borders and terrorism. The MA programme foregrounds the existence of multiple ways of understanding risk, from risk as an objective phenomenon managed through scientific tools (e.g. in the case of environmental hazards) to risk as a social construct and a political technique (e.g. in the case of risk and security).
For students interested in security-related risk, the MA programme offers in-depth and advanced understanding of geo-political security challenges and politics, including the ways in which society is governed increasingly through the prism of risk. Dealing with risks as a function of both the natural and social environments we live in, the course responds to the growing realisation that many risks are being created through social processes bound to questions of security, including the ways that risk techniques are emerging and being employed as a means of securing uncertain futures.
Students take the following core modules, and a selection of elective modules, which, when combined, add up to 180 credits:
Core Modules:
Elective Modules available in previous years include:
Understanding and managing risk is ultimately about choice. All elements of society, from individuals to governments, must make decisions – conscious or not – about the ways in which they perceive, interpret, balance, and mitigate risk. Risk permeates our day-to-day lives in ways that are now recognised to be much more complex than the hazard-vulnerability paradigm, which dominated risk research until the 1990s, recognised. A deeper understanding of the nature of risk, its emergence, and its interface and position within societies, has emphasised the need to take a much more complex view in which a general understanding of the ways in which risk is generated, experienced and managed needs to be combined with a specific understanding of particular science or policy areas.
The primary aim of this Masters programme is to equip students with a general understanding of risk; whilst simultaneously providing specific training in elements of risk-related research. The MA supports students in developing a strong social science perspective on risk. This will be achieved through an interdisciplinary framework for understanding risk from a variety of perspectives. Students will learn theoretical and practical approaches to identifying and framing risk, as well as the underlying physical and social mechanisms that generate it. They will also examine the relationship of risk to knowledge and policy, and will be made aware of the array of advanced tools and techniques to assess the physical and social dimensions of risk under conditions of uncertainty. They will also be trained in the substance and methods associated with a range of science, social science and policy areas, and be expected to demonstrate that they can combine their general training in risk with their specific understanding of the substance and method associated with the chosen area, through either a research-based or a vocational dissertation.
All students will undertake a suite of core modules (150 credits) which provide students with a range of skills and knowledge which result in a unique focus in risk combined with training in interdisciplinary research methods. These modules are: Understanding Risk, Using Geographical Skills and Techniques, Risk Frontiers, Social Dimensions of Risk and Resilience, and the Dissertation.
Students then also select a suite of elective modules (another 30 credits). Students can choose to receive specialised scientific training in:
Electives can be selected from: Strategic Asia, European Security, International Relations in the Middle East, Social Policy and Society and Risk, Science and Communication.
The Risk Masters (both in its MA and MSc forms) is taught jointly between Durham University’s Geography Department, the School of Government & International Affairs, and the School of Applied Social Sciences. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach encourages students to combine science and social science perspectives. Students have a broad range of modules to choose from, and in this way develop an individualized set of professional skills that, depending on the student’s preferences, speak more to either the natural sciences (e.g. via scientific modelling, GIS or science and communication) or the social sciences (e.g. via social science research methodologies and engagements with social policy and international relations). The programme is delivered in close collaboration with Durham University’s Institute of Hazard, Risk and Resilience (IHRR), and through IHRR’s activities students get permanent exposure to both practitioner and academic perspectives at the forefront of risk thinking and practice.
The global business environment is more complex and interconnected than ever before. Major shifts can happen in a day. The pace of change keeps increasing.
The MSc Risk Management at GCU is designed for today - and industry recognises this. Double-accredited by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) and the Institute of Risk Management (IRM)
As a student, you'll gain the cutting-edge knowledge and practical skillset to navigate the complexities and challenges of risk management in today's world.
GCU is a global leader in risk management education and research. Our experts pursue high-impact research and investigate real-world problems in risk management. For example, we conducted a recent government-funded study assessing the risks associated with private finance in the construction industry and produced a recent report on the risks associated with e-commerce.
Our staff publish on subjects like insurance risk regulation, occupational health and safety, healthcare risk management, financial risk management and more - contributing to public knowledge and the common good.
In our thriving GCU community, we encourage every student and graduate to help build the common good as well. That means exploring ways to make a positive impact, whatever you do, wherever you go.
Enterprise Risk and Modelling
You will gain an understanding of the theory involved in contemporary risk management processes and practices; providing you with an understanding of the building techniques required to assemble a risk analysis model.
Global Perspectives on Risk
You will learn how to critically analyse a wide range of risks, including managerial, cultural, political, ethical and economic factors impacting on international businesses. You will also evaluate a range of risk management strategies and tactics available to international businesses.
Risk Financing and Insurance
You will learn the basic principles of risk finance, examine insurance theory and undertake a critical evaluation of insurance practice. Alternative risk financing methods such as options, futures, swaps and securitisation will also be analysed.
Business Continuity and Crisis Management
You will examine the relationship between risk management and business continuity management, study the key drivers of Business Continuity and the strategies involved when an organisation faces a crisis situation.
Ethics and Corporate Governance
This module explores the key issues in corporate governance and the extent to which the arrangements currently in place secure corporate accountability.
Personal and Professional Development
Enables you to identify, understand, develop and articulate your personal abilities in the context of your future career aspirations.
Research Methods
This module develops advanced skills related to a range of research methods needed for academic and practical research at masters level.
Dissertation
The final element of the programme is the dissertation, which provides you with an opportunity to design and undertake a piece of research in a selective area of risk management.
Our graduates are highly competitive candidates for job opportunities in the UK and across the world. Graduates find successful roles in risk management, risk analysis, risk co-ordination, insurance and business continuity management and more in a wide range of industry sectors including banking, insurance, consultancy, oil and gas, transport, and construction.
Working in politics has never required as many professional competencies as in this historical period. Playing an active role in an electoral campaign or in the life of a party, but also writing about politics on a daily basis, are activities that, without specific training and without the mastery of the most up-to-date techniques, risk being unproductive.
In such a framework, the Master’s Degree in Political Marketing has been designed to enable all those who wish to be or are already involved in these topics to acquire a store of operational knowledge and capabilities of excellence that will support them in concretely contributing to the results.
The Master’s Degree in Political Marketing is aimed at providing the knowledge and abilities necessary to effectively and professionally manage the communication and marketing processes that support political campaigns and activities.
In particular, on completing the course, participants will be able to:
structure precise operational plans and strategies for the promotion of a political candidate or group
make the best use of social media and of the web for political-electoral marketing and communication ends
learn about new visual and off-line means of communication for a winning placement in the political-electoral market
enhance their public speaking capabilities also in terms of consultancy to others
correctly set up and manage an electoral campaign
know and understand the peculiarities of the different electoral systems
utilising and designing political-electoral research and surveys
identify and add value to different leadership styles
know the best techniques for the organisation of a political event
realising effective fundraising campaigns
managing press office activities aimed at the promotion of political candidates or parties
master the most evolved spin doctoring techniques
acquire an overview of some of the best practices in the international context
The Master’s Degree in Political Marketing is a course of excellence aimed at a maximum of 20 participants that wish to acquire competencies of excellence in the effective management of the communication and marketing processes linked to political activities and electoral campaigns.
Political-Electoral Marketing
Strategy
Market research for politics
Segmentation, targeting and positioning for politics
Political-Electoral marketing mix
Marketing 2.0 and 3.0 for politics
Web and Social media for politics
Web and Social Media campaign planning, implementation and control for politics
Using Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+ for political communication
Political blogging
Emailing techniques
Public speaking
Verbal and Non-verbal communication
Feedback effectiveness
Active listening
Steps for an effective public presentation
Political Press Office
Political journalism
The Press Office
The planning of activities
Implementing actions and monitoring results.
Organising events
Choice and ideation of the most suitable event in order to reach objectives
Project definition
Budget definition through the evaluation of economic aspects
Promotion: online through social media and offline through traditional media
Practical organization of the event.
The electoral system and its specificity
Plurality systems
Majority systems
Proportional systems
Mixed systems
Political-electoral research and surveys
Pre-election polls
Candidate and party campaign analyses
Leader and political party positioning analyses
Campaign impact evaluations
Election projections and post-election surveys
Leadership for politics
Interpersonal influence
Leadership styles
The techniques
Spin Doctoring
Role and activity evolution
Strategies and techniques
Excellency cases
Fundraising for politics
Fundraising techniques and tactics
Fundraising patterns
The management of the relationship with donors
Budgeting and staffing models
Effective and ethical profiles
Phone banking, canvassing and special events
Electoral campaign management
Traditional vs digital campaigns
Human resources management and organisation for an electoral campaign
The thematic campaign
Territorial campaign
Cases studies
Innovative communication techniques for politics
Graphic, video and digital design
Modelling and 3D animation
Augmented reality
Mobile apps
Video mapping
International excellency cases
Edsegovi’s HOLOS model (Mexico)
The course is structured over 12 months:
- 6 months of lectures, once per week
- 6 months of final project work
- Company visits
- Cultural programme
- Italian language course included
Rome Business School is an International Institution that has already hosted students from more than 140 countries.
Rome Business School employs university lecturers, company trainers, consultants, managers and entrepreneurs chosen because of their proven experience and skills. The faculty has a strong multicultural inclination, with representatives from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. It will synergistically leaves you with a patrimony of knowledge for your personal development.
Our selected renewed and highly competent formators are always assessed and rated by students, thanks to our quality assurance system.
Rome Business School is developing an International didactic and corporate Network, thanks to several partnerships with business schools, universities and companies
Risk and disaster reduction, particularly within the contexts of dealing with uncertainty and increasing resilience, are high on local, national and international agendas. The Risk and Disaster Reduction MRes is a research-intensive programme, which aims to meet the rapidly growing need for experts trained to analyse and provide solutions to complex issues relating to risk and disasters.
Students will learn about and explore the characterisation, quantification, management and reduction of risk and disasters, and their associated impacts, from a diverse range of scientific, technical, socio-economic, political, environmental, ethical and cultural perspectives. They will acquire advanced levels of knowledge of empirical, theoretical and practical aspects of risk and disaster reduction, and will gain research experience and the ability to effectively communicate research findings through the independent research project.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of two skills modules (30 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and an independent research project (105 credits).
A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits) is offered. See separate entry for further details.
Skills modules
Optional modules
Students choose three of the following modules:
Dissertation/report
All students undertake a substantial research project of 15,000 to 20,000 words, which culminates in an independent research report and oral presentation.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, directed reading, practical 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 through coursework, examination, essays, project reports, oral and poster presentations, and the research dissertation.
There are a number of UK-based day field trips as part of the programme. These look at the multiple facets of disaster risk including the physical hazard, vulnerability of structures and communities, and mitigation measures and management.
There is also an NGO-led disaster scenario exercise.
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 Reduction MRes
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 research, research communication, public policy, (re)insurance, catastrophe modelling, finance, risk management, international development, humanitarian assistance, engineering, 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, and those who wish to use this programme as a step towards a related PhD.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
Examples of previous graduate students' employment within the field of risk and disaster reduction include working for an international economic consultancy based in London in the area of micro-finance, working as a consultant in disaster risk for a key player in the London insurance market and working for Rescue Global, an NGO based in London.
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 UCL Institute for Risk and Disaster Reduction (IRDR) leads and co-ordinates multidisciplinary research, knowledge exchange and advanced teaching in risk and disaster reduction across UCL. A Risk and Disaster Reduction PG Cert is also available (see separate entry).
UCL is uniquely well placed to lead research and teaching in this field; in addition to academics across eleven faculties involved in world-class research, UCL IRDR has established links with 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 careers and opportunities forum for students has been attended by insurance companies, catastrophe modelling firms, NGOs, academic institutions, local government and head hunters in the field of risk and disaster reduction. Students have found opportunities through contacts made and positions advertised during this event.
Risk and disaster reduction, particularly within the contexts of dealing with uncertainty and increasing resilience, are high on local, national and international agendas. Academic study can underpin much needed professionalisation and application of evidence and research-based theory to this area. This MSc programme aims to meet the growing need for experts trained to analyse and provide solutions to complex risk and disaster resilience issues.
Students will learn about and explore the characterisation, quantification, management and reduction of risk, disasters, and their associated impacts, from a broad range of scientific, technical, socio-economic, political, environmental, ethical and cultural perspectives. Through this multidisciplinary approach, students gain expertise in analysing complex challenges, enabling them to become future leaders who drive policy change and innovation.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of six core modules (90 credits), two 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, but no independent project), full-time nine months, part-time two years, is also offered.
Core modules
All 6 core modules must be taken.
Optional modules
Choose two 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, directed reading and practical 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
A series of one-day UK-based field trips are available.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Risk, Disaster and Resilience 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 fields including research, public policy, business continuity, (re)insurance, catastrophe modelling, finance, risk management, international development, emergency services, consultancy, and humanitarian assistance. The IRDR runs a careers and opportunities fair for students, which is attended by insurance companies, catastrophe modelling firms, NGOs, academic institutions, policy and local government bodies, and head hunters in the field of risk and disaster reduction. Several students have found opportunities through contacts made and positions advertised during this event.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
Whether you wish to start a new career in risk and disaster reduction or you already have experience in this sector, we are here to support you. With an MSc in Risk, Disaster and Resilience, you will have excellent academic credibility coupled with practical and analytical skills.
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 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 at least 70 academics across 12 departments and seven faculties involved in world-class research, the IRDR has established links with non-governmental organisations, industry and government departments based in and around London.
Teaching and project supervision will be provided by active researchers, practitioners and policy-makers, all of whom are leaders in their respective fields.
This MSc Risk Management course will teach you cutting-edge risk management principles and techniques that you can apply in any domain, opening up a wealth of career options.
This degree is one of a few UK masters courses to cover risk management theory and practice within a broad framework, with applications across a range of sectors. It gives you the freedom to explore your own interests through optional modules in areas such as finance, quantitative methods or corporate security. You’ll be taught by academics at the forefront of risk management research, including world-leading experts in decision making in uncertain environments and project risk. You’ll also benefit from close links with the Business School’s Centre for Risk Research, the only specialist centre of its type in a Russell Group University. In addition, the course is accredited by two UK risk and insurance professional bodies.
From banking and insurance to manufacturing and public health, effective risk management is now recognised as a crucial factor for success in all sectors. This popular degree is one of just a handful of masters courses in the UK that teaches risk management within a broad framework that can be applied in any field, rather than focusing on a specific industry such as finance or engineering. This gives you the freedom to explore different aspects of risk and discover your area of interest, which you can pursue by choosing from a range of specialist modules.
The programme is delivered in conjunction with the Business School’s multidisciplinary Centre for Risk Research, the only risk-related research centre of its kind in a Russell Group university. Our academics’ links with the Centre’s research programmes will inform your learning, and you’ll have access to additional opportunities such as industry seminars run by the Centre.
This course will be of interest if you already have some professional experience and want to advance risk management practice in your industry, or if you are looking to specialise following your undergraduate studies. We welcome students from a range of academic backgrounds who have undertaken some quantitative study.
The MSc in Risk Management is accredited by the Chartered Insurance Institute and the Institute of Risk Management. This reflects our rigorous academic standards and means you’ll be able to apply for credits towards professional qualifications when you graduate.
View the programme specification document for this course.
You’ll graduate with a wide range of career options. You could choose to work for a financial or insurance company, the pharmaceutical or medical industry, or in environmental risk management. Potential employers include consultancy service firms and government organisations as well as private sector companies.
Our graduates have gone on to work for companies such as:
The reputation of our risk management courses means we are regularly approached by companies seeking talented students for placement, internship or job opportunities. For example, Zurich Insurance recently offered placements for some of our students. These opportunities are not a formal part of the course and vary from year to year.
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.
The only UK masters degree in the field of cyber risk to combine aspects of business and information technology, MSc Cyber Security Risk Management will equip you with a blend of skills that are in demand in the sector.
Unlike other UK cyber security masters degrees, which have a computer science focus, this unique programme combines modules from a range of disciplines. It is therefore ideally placed to meet the demand for professionals with the necessary management skills, as well as the technical knowledge, to effectively manage cyber security risks. You’ll be taught by experts in risk management, cyber security and computer science.
In addition, you’ll benefit from the co-location of several specialist research centres at Southampton. These include the University’sAcademic Centre of Excellence for Cyber Security Research, which was set up to advance the UK government’s cyber security agenda, and the highly regarded Centre for Risk Research. You’ll graduate with an accredited degree, enabling you to apply for credits towards professional risk or insurance qualifications.
Cyber security is a global concern for companies and governments, but there is a recognised shortage of cyber security practitioners with the breadth of skills required to understand and manage the risk of cyber attacks. MSc Cyber Security Risk Management, the only UK cyber security programme to be offered within a business school rather than a computer science department, is designed to fill this gap.
Rather than focusing purely on the technical aspects of cyber security, MSc Cyber Security Risk Management offers a unique combination of modules encompassing business risk management, computer science and cyber security. You’ll gain a grounding in the essential technical aspects of the subject, but you’ll also develop the managerial and analytical skills needed to identify risks, communicate them within an organisation and put effective cyber risk management approaches into practice.
Southampton’s expertise in cyber risk research has been recognised with the award of an Academic Centre of Excellence for Cyber Security Research, funded by GCHQ and the Economic and Social Research Council as part of the UK government’s national cyber security strategy. Our academics are active partners in the Centre’s work and bring their research insights to the course. You’ll also benefit from expertise within the Business School’s Centre for Risk Research, the only specialist centre of its type in a Russell Group university.
We welcome applicants from a range of academic backgrounds. Many of our students bring some professional experience to their studies, while some join us straight from their undergraduate studies.
View the programme specification document
Every year, professional risk managers and industry leaders from companies visit us to discuss careers in the sector, helping you to plan your next steps. Past speakers have come from IBM, Goldman Sachs, PwC, Old Mutual, and the Chartered Insurance Institute.
There is significant demand for talented graduates with the ability to assess and effectively manage cyber-related risks as well as an understanding of related technical issues. Our students have gone on to work in a range of industries including finance, banking, accountancy, insurance, IT, risk management and business security, for companies such as:
The MSc in Cyber Security and Risk Management is accredited by the Chartered Insurance Institute and the Institute of Risk Management, which means you’ll be able to apply for credits towards professional qualifications.
Our Risk Analysis MA, MSc has a unique focus on the societal, health, safety and environmental aspects of risk – rather than the financial aspects. We will provide you with a deep knowledge and understanding of social science theories, concepts, techniques and organisational approaches to risk assessment, management, governance and communication.
In recent years, the ideas, concepts and tools of risk analysis have come to dominate the way in which we conceive and respond to an ever-expanding range of societal threats to the environment, health, security, prosperity or even lifestyle. However, how we assess, manage, govern and communicate risk is regularly the source of political conflict, and this poses dilemmas for policymakers, public and private sector organisations and individuals alike. It is
increasingly recognised that such issues –evident in crises from food safety to banking – cannot be addressed by simple technical ‘know-how’ alone. They require understanding of the political, organisational and social contexts in which decisions are made.
Our course draws together a unique combination of risk scholarship from across the social sciences, including psychology, political science and sociology, to provide an advanced academic foundation in risk studies. In doing so, it will equip you to critically analyse risk issues in a wide range of public policy, organisational and societal settings, to evaluate the dynamics of risk governance and management options, and to develop reflexive communication strategies.
Teaching
We will teach you through a combination of lectures and seminars, and you will typically have 20 hours of this per module. We also expect you to undertake 180 hours of independent study for each module. For your 12,000 word dissertation, we will provide four workshops and five hours of one-toone supervision to complement your 587 hours of independent study. Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work.
Assessment
Performance on taught modules in the Geography Department is normally assessed through essays and other written assignments, oral presentations, lab work and occasionally by examination, depending on the modules selected. All students also undertake a research-based dissertation of 12,000 words.
This course will enable you to undertake further doctoral research or enter careers as risk specialists. Our graduates work in industry, consultancies, governmental and nongovernmental agencies. Past graduates have used the skills they developed with us to enter and excel in a variety of positions including the World Bank, European Commission, HM Government, UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, UK Food Standards Agency, US Department of Homeland Security, Medical Research Council, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, KPMG, SwissRe, Ernst and Young, Marsh Risk Consulting, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Total, L’Oreal, Network Rail, Sainsburys and ING.
Contemporary security research and policy-making focus heavily on the causes and consequences of violent and non-violent political conflict. This MSc trains students to apply empirical methods to explore the causes of terrorism, civil, and international conflict, the application of military force, humanitarian intervention, and the provision of global public goods.
Students develop an understanding of theoretical approaches and debates in security studies, and the ability to analyse how forms of violent and non-violent political conflict emerge, diffuse, are managed, and are resolved. They gain the qualitative and quantitative research skills required to collect and analyse empirical evidence in a selective and systematic way.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of three core modules (60 credits), optional modules (60 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).
Core modules
Optional modules
Dissertation/report
All MSc students undertake an individual research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars, and is taught by scholars who have subject-specific knowledge and have carried out theoretical and empirical research in the field. Students will be assessed by a variety of methods: unseen examinations, long essays and the dissertation.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Security Studies 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.
Graduates of the programme are ideally placed to develop careers in the field of international relations, public policy and political analysis. Many graduates go on to further research study at UCL or other universities in the UK or overseas.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
The Security Studies MSc is designed with the intention of endowing students with an advanced set of methodological skills that enable them to collect and analyse real-world data to test theoretically-informed hypotheses about the sources, impacts, and resolution of various forms of non-violent and violent political conflict. These analytical skills have enabled prior students to gain employment across the sectors, including positions on the civil service fast stream, at private sector political risk firms and banks, and in niche area NGOs and charitable organisations helping to tackle poverty and unrest at home and abroad.
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.
UCL Political Science is recognised as a centre of excellence in the field and offers a uniquely stimulating environment for the study of all fields of politics.
Students benefit from weekly seminars featuring distinguished external speakers, and regular high-profile events for policymakers and others.
The research preparation and tailor-made interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary training students receive is one of the highest available in the world, in one of the world's top universities, as reflected in its performance in a range of rankings and tables.
The MSc Risk and Finance is an interdisciplinary master's programme designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the various facets of risk, including risk perception, management, control and regulation as encountered in a wide variety of contexts.
The success of organisations depends upon their ability to operate in the face of risk, and risk management is increasingly recognised as requiring special skills central to the functioning of the organisation. This programme addresses such questions as: What types of risks exist in various settings? What are the appropriate ways to classify, measure and assess risk? How does the organisation of enterprises, governments and markets increase, decrease or change the nature of risk? What techniques can be used to transfer risk in markets, firms or societies? The design of the programme will enable you to acquire a broad knowledge of risk management and regulation, and to deepen your competency in a chosen area of specialisation.
The programme is supported by Deutsche Bank, which contributes a high level of involvement via a series of practitioner seminars which run throughout the programme.
The programme equips you for career opportunities in consulting, finance and banking, insurance, management, regulation and supervision, and public administration, among others. This programme is not intended as suitable preparation for the PhD Finance at LSE (if you are interested in PhD study, please see MSc Finance and Economics).
Further information on graduate destinations for this programme
All countries face a wide range of hazards, both natural and man-made, that have the potential to result in catastrophic damage. Despite actions taken by local emergency management professionals, international trends show that the economic and social impact of disaster has increased around the world. This is especially true in the developing world, where large-scale disasters can result in enormous loss of life as well as considerable economic damage.
The MSc in International Disaster Management is designed for participants who are interested in enhancing resilience to disasters through prevention, preparedness, response and recovery from disaster events.
Within the HCRI, this will take place through multidisciplinary study focusing on the critical analysis of current trends in academic research and policies, particularly those related to international disaster risk reduction, sustainable development, and humanitarian action tools commonly used by disaster risk reduction professionals. To this end, the core curriculum brings together the realms of disaster risk reduction, sustainable development, and humanitarian action. The interdisciplinary team of researchers at the HCRI will also support the critical exploration of disaster resilience, prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in order to equip students to work professionally in the fields of disaster risk reduction and sustainable development.
The MSc in International Disaster Management is unique as it incorporates a wide variety of available course units from history, politics, development studies, the arts and medicine. This results in a course that is suitable as a way to develop initial skills in disaster risk reduction or support continuing education for disaster risk reduction professionals.
On completion of the course, you should be able to show a critical understanding of:
HCRI also offers bespoke training in International Disaster Management and Continuing Professional Development courses. Please contact Dr Billy Haworth ( [email protected] ) for details
HCRI at The University of Manchester is inspired by the need to conduct rigorous research and to support postgraduate training on the impact and outcomes of contemporary and historical crises. Directed by Dr Rony Brauman (former President of MSF France, Associate Professor at L'Institut d'Études Politiques, Paris, and Director of Research at the MSF Foundation, Paris), HCRI is widely recognised as being a leading international research institute focusing on the study of humanitarianism, conflict response and peacebuilding.
Our work is driven by a desire to inform and support policy and decision makers, to optimise joint working between partner organisations, and to foster increased understanding and debate within the field. Bringing together the disciplines of medicine and the humanities (including international relations and political science) to achieve these goals, HCRI aims to facilitate improvements in crisis response on a global scale whilst providing a centre of excellence for all concerned with emergencies, conflicts and peace. In offering a range of postgraduate courses we embrace this opportunity to develop a scholarly and professional agenda for humanitarians and peacebuilders around the world.
Delivery of the course will be done through face-to-face teaching at the University of Manchester. This will be supported by streamed lectures, discussion boards and other e-learning elements.
Graduation requirements will be the completion of 180 credits. A total of 120 credits of module coursework will be required for students to move on to dissertation writing. A passing dissertation will lead to the final 60 credits needed for MA completion.
All core modules are convened by existing HCRI staff. A small number of elective modules will be taught from the School of Environment and Development, the School of Social Sciences and the School of Nursing.
Course units may include:
Course units may vary from year to year.
A selection of elective modules are being offered from the School on Environment and Development.
Appropriate facilities will be verified through the School of Arts, Languages and Cultures. The course has been developed in close co-operation with the Faculty's e-learning team which will offer on-going support for the programme.
Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: [email protected]
Our MA International Peace & Security consists of a broad-based multidisciplinary curriculum, focusing on law and conflict in international society and contemporary security issues. It is ideal if you are looking for a career in international organisations, government departments, political risk and financial sector, further research/PhD or professional legal studies.
Our course was launched by the School of Law and the Department of War Studies in response to the rapidly changing world after the Cold War. We combine the strengths of both departments to provide you with an integrated study of international law and international politics relevant to the contemporary world. This type of study is necessitated by the major changes in international peace and security which have taken place in recent years.
Our MA will give students of international relations, historians and political scientists a deeper knowledge of international law; narrow the existing gap between international lawyers and international relations specialists; and educate people who could work in international organisations (both inter-governmental and non-governmental), in government, or teach international law and politics.
Teaching
Per 40-credit module, you will typically have two hours per week over two 10-week terms. This can be split into one lecture + one seminar or combinations thereof, as well as 360 hours of self-study. Typically, one credit equates to 10 hours of work.
For the dissertation module, you will have 12 hours of training workshops and supervision to complement the 588 hours of self-study.
Assessment
Most 20 to 40-credit modules are assessed through a combination of essays (3000-6000 words), oral vivas, and/or exams.
The dissertation module assessment will be based on a 100% dissertation assignment (up to 15,000 words).
War Studies Graduates go on to work for NGOs, the FCO, the MOD, the Home Office, NATO, the UN or pursue careers in journalism, finance, academia, the diplomatic services, the armed forces and more. Recent posts held by our alumni include Threat Analyst, Director of Political Violence Forecasting, Research Advisor at NATO Defence College, Foreign Policy Fellow.
The Latin American Politics MSc provides students with an opportunity to develop their general and specialist knowledge of major issues in the politics of Latin America. The programme's graduates have established careers in research, journalism, teaching, and policy formulation and implementation in both government agencies and NGOs.
Students will develop a detailed understanding of the political histories of major Latin American countries, key public policy issues, the challenges of democratisation and democratic consolidation, and the domestic and international influences on political developments in the region. They will gain the key research and analysis skills necessary for professional development in the field of Latin American politics.
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.
The programme consists of two core modules (15 credits each), four optional modules (60 credits in total), and the research dissertation (90 credits).
Please note: All optional modules are subject to availability
Core modules
Optional modules
Students choose four optional modules from a selection that includes the following:
Students may choose a maximum of 30 credits from other departments or from other University of London colleges, subject to the Programme Director's approval.
Dissertation/report
All students write a dissertation of 15,000 words on a research topic of their choice (linked to the subject area of one of their taught modules), provided that it contains a substantial politics focus.
Teaching and learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of seminars, lectures, presentations, research skills training, and independent reading and research. There is a range of assessments including essays and a short oral presentation, and the dissertation.
Fieldwork
Many of our Master’s students undertake fieldwork in order to carry out research for their dissertation projects.
There may be travel costs associated with fieldwork. The institute has limited funds available to students to help towards the costs of fieldwork. These funds are awarded on a competitive basis on the criteria of academic performance to date, the quality of the research proposal and the importance of fieldwork for completing the research.
Further information on modules and degree structure is available on the department website: Latin American Politics MSc
Graduates of this programme will be well placed to use their skills and knowledge to find employment in government, business, journalism, finance, international NGOs, teaching, or for further research in this field.
Recent career destinations for this degree
Employability
Students on this degree will have excellent opportunities to expand their professional networks and establish personal contacts that enhance their future employability. Through institute staff members' extensive professional and personal contacts in the region, and through participating in the institute's extremely active events programme, students will meet potential colleagues in government and the foreign service, development agencies and the international NGO community, business and finance, and print and electronic media. On the basis of such contacts, recent programme graduates have found employment in government (the Foreign and Commonwealth Office), NGOs (Amnesty International, Caritas) and political risk-analysis firms, while others have undertaken PhD research.
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.
In the UK the Institute of the Americas occupies a unique position in the academic study of the region in promoting, co-ordinating and providing a focus for research and postgraduate teaching on the Americas, including Canada, the Caribbean, Latin America and the United States.
The institute actively maintains and builds ties with cultural, diplomatic and business organisations with interests in the Americas, and it provides resources to the wider academic community, serving and strengthening national networks of North Americanist, Latin Americanist and Caribbeanist scholars.
Students benefit from tuition by world-leading scholars in an academic environment at the cutting-edge of research in the social sciences and the humanities.
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.
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