MSc Global Development and Environment
Overview
More of the world's extreme poor now live in middle-income than in low-income countries, and processes such as climate change, transnational migration and globalisation demand a global consideration of the state of the planet. Development is now seen as a global process and activity, rather than something reserved for a subset of countries such as the 'Third World' or 'Global South'. Contemporary global challenges demand the linking of environmental issues to conventional foci of development (like health, urbanisation, poverty, food security and migration). They also demand an understanding of how the world's resources (water, energy, land, minerals, demography, etc.) are allocated and managed, and how contestations over these distributions play out.
This programme is aimed at talented graduates seeking to develop or enhance their expertise in the fields of development and environment. You will develop the capacity to critically analyse the large-scale drivers of environmental consumption and stewardship, and how these interlink with and produce developmental outcomes.
You will gain a perspective that is at once global and interdisciplinary while also paying attention to locality (place) and people's agency in forging a just and sustainable future.
The School of Geographical Sciences is ranked #1 in the UK for 'Geography and environmental studies' research (THE analysis of REF 2021) and has an outstanding reputation for teaching and learning. It builds upon Bristol's existing research strengths in these fields, with links to the University's Cabot Institute, Perivoli Africa Research Centre, Elizabeth Blackwell Institute, Jean Golding Institute, and Bristol Poverty Institute.
Programme structure
The programme is structured around two core units and two mandatory methods units. Students will also choose two optional units and complete a research dissertation.
The programme is structured around the core unit Global Development and Environment: History, Theory, Practice (GEOGM0044), with Sustainability, Risk and Resilience in the Urban Age (GEOGM0037) as the second mandatory core unit. Students will receive research training in the compulsory units Qualitative Research Methods in Human Geography (GEOGM0041) and Practical Statistics for Use in Research and Policy (GEOGM0010).
Subject to availability, students will be able to choose two optional units dealing with topics ranging from postcolonial critique to environmental policy and politics. The GDE Studio unit will provide you with an opportunity to develop a range of practical skills by working in small teams to address real-world policy and practical challenges facing external clients including public agencies, private organisations and NGOs.
All units are worth 20 M/7 credit points, while the dissertation unit will earn 60 M/7 credit points.
Unit availability can only be confirmed on an annual basis, therefore any choices made by part-time students at the outset of the programme for their second year of study will be provisional.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc Global Development and Environment.
Entry requirements
A strong upper second-class honours degree (65% or higher) or international equivalent in social sciences, physical sciences, life sciences or professional degrees (medicine, architecture, planning or engineering). Candidates with a strong background in humanities plus relevant work experience will also be considered. Applicants with a lower class of degree or a degree in a non-standard subject with relevant work experience of 6 months 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
Students completing this programme will be able to go on to work in government, the non-profit sector, multilateral organisations and private companies including development and environmental consultancies. The intensive research training will also prepare you for further postgraduate study.
Contact us
- Contact
- Enquiries Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 117 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk
- Faculties
- Schools