BSc Acoustics and Music Technology
The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom, offers a ...
MSc Environment, Culture and Society
Central Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Environment, Culture and Society at the University of Edinburgh offers a unique opportunity to study the connections between environmental processes, cultural practices, and societal structures. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of how environmental issues—such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion—are influenced by cultural and social factors, including politics, economics, and global power dynamics. Students are introduced to a range of theoretical frameworks from disciplines such as anthropology, sociology, geography, and environmental studies, and are encouraged to critically assess how environmental policies, cultural perceptions, and social structures shape environmental outcomes. This program is designed for students who wish to work at the intersection of culture, society, and the environment, with a focus on promoting sustainable practices, environmental justice, and global environmental change.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc Environment, Culture and Society combines core modules with opportunities for specialization, offering students a broad understanding of key concepts while allowing them to focus on areas of particular interest. Core modules cover topics such as environmental governance, sustainability, cultural landscapes, and the social dimensions of environmental change. Students will explore how cultural practices, values, and social norms influence the management and conservation of natural resources, while also examining the role of environmental movements and policies in shaping society’s response to ecological challenges. Elective modules allow students to delve deeper into specific areas, including environmental ethics, the politics of climate change, urban sustainability, and indigenous environmental knowledge. The program also includes a research project or dissertation, where students can conduct independent research on a topic related to the intersections of environment, culture, and society, applying their academic learning to real-world issues.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MSc Environment, Culture and Society is interdisciplinary, examining how environmental issues are influenced by social, cultural, and political factors. Students will have access to the university’s wide-ranging research expertise in environmental sociology, human geography, and anthropology, exploring topics such as environmental governance, sustainability transitions, and the role of cultural heritage in environmental management. The University of Edinburgh is known for its strong research output in areas such as environmental policy, social movements, and climate change adaptation. Students are encouraged to engage with the university’s research centers, such as the Centre for Environmental Change and Sustainability, where they can participate in projects that explore the connections between cultural practices and environmental challenges. The program promotes critical thinking and independent research, encouraging students to contribute to ongoing academic discussions on the intersection of culture, society, and the environment.
Industry Engagement: The MSc Environment, Culture and Society program offers valuable opportunities for industry engagement through the University of Edinburgh’s strong connections with environmental NGOs, government agencies, cultural institutions, and international organizations. Students have the chance to participate in internships, fieldwork projects, and collaborations with professionals working in areas such as environmental conservation, cultural heritage management, sustainability policy, and community development. The university’s location in Edinburgh, a hub for environmental and cultural organizations, provides students with access to a wealth of networking opportunities, guest lectures, and industry events. This engagement with industry professionals helps students gain practical insights into the challenges and opportunities of working in the environmental and cultural sectors, and prepares them for careers in policy analysis, advocacy, research, and environmental management.
Global Perspective: The MSc Environment, Culture and Society at the University of Edinburgh takes a global perspective on environmental and cultural issues, recognizing that environmental challenges are interconnected and have far-reaching consequences across national borders. The program explores how environmental problems, such as climate change and deforestation, affect communities worldwide, with particular emphasis on vulnerable populations in the Global South. Students will examine global environmental policies and frameworks, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the role of international cooperation in addressing global environmental issues. The program also encourages students to consider how different cultural beliefs and values shape environmental practices around the world, from indigenous knowledge systems to modern sustainability movements. With a diverse student body and faculty, the program fosters a global perspective on environmental issues, preparing students to engage with the complexities of environmental change in a globally interconnected world.
Location
Central Campus
Score
IELTS: 7
Tuition Fee
£ 34000
Postgraduate entry requirements:
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Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.
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English Language Proficiency:
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IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).
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PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
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Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.
It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement.
Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.
School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.
Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.
External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.
Graduates of the MSc in Environment, Culture and Society program at the University of Edinburgh possess a unique blend of interdisciplinary skills and perspectives that open up diverse career opportunities. The MSc in Environment, Culture and Society equips graduates with critical thinking skills, research capabilities, and cross-cultural competencies essential for addressing complex environmental challenges.
Environmental and Cultural Consultancy: Graduates can work as consultants, helping organizations navigate complex environmental issues with sensitivity to cultural contexts. They advise on sustainability strategies, community engagement, and cultural impact assessments for development projects.
Environmental Policy and Advocacy: Graduates may pursue roles in government agencies, NGOs, or international organizations, shaping policies that promote environmental justice and cultural sensitivity. They advocate for inclusive and equitable environmental policies.
Community Development and Engagement: Graduates engage with communities to promote sustainable practices, facilitate dialogue, and empower marginalized groups in decision-making processes. They work towards environmental justice and community resilience.
Research and Academia: Some graduates pursue research positions or further studies, contributing to the field of environmental humanities, social ecology, or cultural geography. They conduct research on cultural aspects of environmental issues and sustainable practices.
International Development: Graduates work in international development organizations, addressing environmental challenges in culturally diverse contexts. They promote cross-cultural collaboration for sustainable development and social inclusion.
Cultural Heritage and Conservation: Graduates may specialize in cultural heritage management or conservation, preserving cultural landscapes and promoting heritage-based sustainable development initiatives.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Graduates can work in corporate sustainability roles, implementing CSR programs that integrate cultural perspectives into environmental initiatives. They promote ethical and culturally sensitive business practices.
Urban Planning and Design: Graduates contribute to urban planning and design projects, integrating cultural and environmental considerations into city development plans. They advocate for sustainable and inclusive urban environments.
Education and Outreach: Graduates can work in education and outreach roles, raising awareness about environmental and cultural issues through community engagement, museums, or non-profit organizations.
