MSc Environmental Modelling and Data Analysis
- MSc
Overview
Numerical models and satellite observation are fundamental to understanding environmental systems and change. The MSc in Environmental Modelling and Data Analysis will provide you with the skills to go on to a career in this exciting area. You will learn how models of environmental processes are developed and applied across a range of areas including climate change, flooding, biogeochemistry and glaciers. You will gain an appreciation of all aspects of environmental modelling, ranging from the philosophy of model development, focussing on links to observations and uncertainty analysis, through to more practical aspects such as numerical approximation and algorithm development and testing.
The programme has close links to its twin MSc in Geographical Data Science and Spatial Analytics, which allows students to develop skills in Geographical Information Systems, analysis of satellite observations and Data Science techniques more widely. This will be complemented by hands-on teaching aimed at developing your coding skills in scientific programming and high-performance computing (with access to Bristol's unique supercomputing facilities).
The School of Geographical Sciences is ranked first in the UK for 'Geography and environmental studies' research (THE analysis of REF 2021). The MSc is taught by world-leading researchers from the School's Hydrology, Glaciology and Earth Systems research groups. It is closely linked to the School's Geocomputation research strand, which hosts seminars and workshops aimed at consolidating links between environmental modelling and Data Science.
Programme structure
You will take the following 20-credit compulsory units:
- Environmental Modelling Applications
- Earth Systems Modelling
- Introduction to Scientific Computing
- Mapping and Modelling Geographic Data in R or Introduction to Geographical Information Systems/Remote Sensing.
You will choose a further two 20-credit units from the list of postgraduate units offered by the School of Geographical Sciences. For example:
- Data Science and Machine Learning in Geography
- Climate Change: Science and impacts
- Quantifying Climate Risk
- Urban Analytics and City Science.
A key component of the programme is the 60-credit dissertation. The bulk of the dissertation work will take place during summer months. The dissertation provides students with practical experience of formulating, designing, and undertaking a substantive and original piece of research in environmental modelling and/or satellite observation. Students are introduced to key principles of research design and research ethics through intensive training in this unit.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Environmental Modelling and Data Analysis.
Entry requirements
An upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent in an engineering, mathematics or a physical science subject. Applicants with non-standard degree subjects are required to have achieved 60% or international equivalent in a module focussing on environmental, climate or hydrological modelling as evidenced by their transcript.
We will consider applicants whose interim grades are currently slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements. We may make these applicants an aspirational offer. This offer would be at the standard level, so the applicant would need to achieve the standard entry requirements by the end of their degree. Specific module requirements may still apply.
We will consider applicants whose grades are slightly lower than the programme's entry requirements, if they have at least one of the following:
- evidence of significant, relevant work experience;
- a relevant postgraduate qualification.
If this is the case, applicants should include their CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when they apply, showing details of their relevant work experience and/or qualifications.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
Go to admissions statementIf English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level C.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- UK: full-time
- £13,100 per year
- UK: part-time (two years)
- £6,550 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £28,800 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding for 2024/25
Students from developing Commonwealth countries may be eligible to apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, University of Bristol Think Big Postgraduate Scholarship, and the School of Geographical Sciences Phyllis Mary Morris Bursaries.
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
This MSc provides graduates with the skills needed for successful careers in environmental consultancy and engineering companies, as well as environmental work in governmental and third sector organisations and agencies. The programme also provides ideal training for those considering a career in research where modelling and data analysis skills are important.
Contact us
- Contact
- Enquiries Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 117 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk
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