COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Environment, Climate Change and Development at the University of Reading is an interdisciplinary programme that examines the complex relationships between climate change, environmental systems, and global development challenges. It focuses on understanding both the scientific and socio-economic drivers of climate change and evaluating responses through policy, economics, and development practice. Core modules such as Energy, Climate Change and Development explore the causes of climate change and assess mitigation and adaptation strategies using ecological and energy economics, while Theories and Practices of Development provides a foundation in international development thinking, poverty reduction, and social justice. Global Environmental Change, Justice and Development further deepens this by linking environmental change with issues of inequality and justice through case studies and conceptual frameworks. A key element of the degree is the Dissertation, which allows students to independently research a topic aligned with their interests under academic supervision. Optional modules enable specialisation in areas such as Climate Smart Agriculture, Ecosystem Services and Nature-based Solutions, Food Security and Development, and Poverty, Inequalities and Gender in Development, alongside Research for Development training that supports applied research skills. Overall, the programme equips students with analytical, research, and policy skills to address global sustainability challenges, preparing them for careers in development organisations, NGOs, government, and environmental policy roles.