COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc in Climate Change and Global Development is a one-year full-time program that equips students with a strong foundation in climate science and its intersection with development issues. The course is structured to first provide students with the essential scientific knowledge needed to understand climate change and its impacts, particularly in vulnerable regions. In the first semester, students explore the fundamental links between climate science, development, and adaptation strategies through a multidisciplinary lens. This includes studying climate models, assessing climate-related vulnerabilities, and examining the concept of resilience in development contexts. The second semester shifts focus to governance and policy, delving into the political and ethical dimensions of climate change. Students critically analyse the international negotiation processes, particularly the operations of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, and examine how climate policies affect societies. Themes such as participatory governance, urban climate responses, and debates on justice and energy demand are central to this part of the course. Throughout the program, a student-centred, inquiry-based learning approach is used to encourage critical thinking and engagement. A wide range of optional modules from the Schools of Global Development and Environmental Sciences allows students to tailor their studies to align with their interests and career goals. The final part of the program involves either a dissertation or an analytical report, which is supported by a dedicated research methods module. This prepares students with both qualitative and quantitative research skills necessary for independent research or professional placements. The course is ideal for those seeking a career in climate policy, international development, environmental consultancy, or research, as it provides not only theoretical knowledge but also practical tools to address global climate challenges through an interdisciplinary and solutions-oriented approach.