MSc Environmental Modelling and Data Analysis
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 ranks #1 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 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 any subject. Applicants must have studied one or more modules in environmental modelling, climate modelling or hydrological modelling. Applicants with a lower class of degree with relevant work experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
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.
If 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
- £11,400 per year
- UK: part-time (two years)
- £5,700 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £25,900 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 2023/24
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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