Environment, Development and Politics MSc

The MSc Environment, Development and Politics takes a novel approach to training in environment and development by recognising the importance of power and politics at all levels of decision-making, from the local to the global, with modules covering international development, global environmental governance and environment and sustainable development. Each programme is taught by a team of multi-disciplinary specialists who work closely with students to address individual interests and concerns. Every student is allocated an academic tutor to support them in their academic progress throughout the year.

Environmental opportunities and challenges are closely intertwined with international development, and understanding of the causes, nature and consequences of environmental issues is essential for anyone working to promote positive change in the livelihoods of the poor. Power and politics fundamentally influence how the environment is recognised, protected and benefited from. Recognising this, the MSc Environment, Development and Politics takes a novel approach to training in environment and development by highlighting the importance of power and politics at all levels of decision-making, from the local to the global.

By the end of your study you will gain: an in-depth understanding of competing development theories and approaches and the ability to critically evaluate their strengths and weaknesses; an appreciation of and ability to use approaches to investigating and responding to linkages between the environment and development; an in-depth understanding of contemporary themes and analytical approaches to understanding global environmental politics; writing skills to produce well-structured and coherent essays and reports, making good use of references; Oral presentation skills and ability to access material from different sources including policy documents and other publications from governments and international organisations, documents from the internet, and from books and academic journals.