BSc Acoustics and Music Technology
The University of Edinburgh, a prestigious institution in the United Kingdom, offers a ...
MSc Food Security
The Kings Buildings Campus
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc in Food Security at the University of Edinburgh is a full-time, one-year program that equips students with the knowledge and skills to understand and address global food security challenges. The program covers a wide range of topics, including food systems, agricultural production, trade and policy, climate change, nutrition, and food security governance. It integrates different disciplines such as environmental science, economics, and sociology, to provide a holistic approach to food security. Students will engage with both theoretical and practical aspects of food security, learning how to apply research methods to real-world problems, and gain insights into effective policy interventions and strategies for improving food security at local, national, and international levels. The program culminates in a dissertation or project, allowing students to conduct original research on a food security topic of their choice.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc in Food Security is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex factors that impact food security. Core modules cover topics such as global food systems, sustainable agricultural practices, food policy, food production and distribution, and the relationship between food security and climate change. Students will explore the social, economic, and political dimensions of food security, as well as the nutritional challenges associated with food insecurity. The program also addresses the role of governance and international frameworks in addressing food security, providing students with the knowledge of global institutions and policies that shape food systems. In addition to core modules, students can choose from a range of electives to tailor the program to their specific interests, such as agricultural development, food justice, or food security in the context of conflict and disaster. The program includes practical components, such as field visits, case studies, and project-based learning, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience alongside theoretical learning.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MSc in Food Security emphasizes the intersection of food systems, sustainability, policy, and social equity. Faculty members at the University of Edinburgh are engaged in cutting-edge research on a variety of topics related to food security, including climate change impacts on food production, the role of trade in food access, food policy innovations, and the connections between food insecurity and poverty. Students are encouraged to participate in research projects that contribute to advancing the understanding of global food systems, with opportunities to engage with ongoing research at the university’s renowned institutes for global development and sustainability. Topics of research include sustainable food systems, food sovereignty, resilience in food security, and the impact of political and economic factors on food access. The program offers students the opportunity to pursue a dissertation or research project on a topic of their choice, allowing them to delve deeper into the areas of food security that interest them most.
Industry Engagement: The MSc in Food Security at the University of Edinburgh benefits from strong links with the food security industry, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), governmental agencies, and international bodies working on food policy and sustainability. The program features guest lectures from industry experts, policy makers, and practitioners, allowing students to engage with professionals who are at the forefront of addressing global food security challenges. Students also have the opportunity to participate in internships and consultancy projects with organizations working in areas such as agricultural development, food policy, and humanitarian aid. These practical experiences help students build valuable networks and gain real-world insights into the application of food security solutions. The university’s strong partnerships with global development organizations also create opportunities for students to contribute to ongoing projects and gain experience in the field of international food security.
Global Perspective: The MSc in Food Security at the University of Edinburgh adopts a global perspective, examining food security challenges from a worldwide viewpoint. Students will explore how food systems are shaped by global trends such as population growth, urbanization, climate change, and international trade. The program provides students with a critical understanding of how food insecurity manifests in different parts of the world, from developed nations to low-income countries, and the ways in which local, national, and international actors are working to address these issues. Students will examine the roles of international organizations such as the United Nations, the World Bank, and the Food and Agriculture Organization, and learn how global governance frameworks shape food security policies. The program’s diverse student body and international faculty create a global learning environment, where students can share perspectives and experiences from different cultural and regional contexts. Graduates will be well-equipped to address food security challenges on a global scale and work in organizations that aim to alleviate food insecurity around the world.
Location
The Kings Buildings Campus
Score
IELTS: 7
Tuition Fee
£ 36700
Postgraduate entry requirements:
-
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.
-
English Language Proficiency:
-
IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
-
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).
-
PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).
-
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.
The MSc Food Security program at the University of Edinburgh opens doors to a wide range of rewarding careers in food security, agriculture, policy development, research, and humanitarian work. Graduates play critical roles in shaping sustainable food systems and addressing food security issues at local, national, and international levels.
Policy Advisor or Analyst: Graduates of the MSc Food Security program can pursue roles as policy advisors or analysts within government agencies, international organizations, or non-profit organizations focused on food policy. They contribute to developing and implementing policies that address global food security challenges, such as food access, sustainability, and nutrition.
Food Security Consultant: As food security consultants, graduates provide expert advice to businesses, NGOs, and governmental organizations on strategies to enhance food production, distribution, and resilience. They may focus on sustainable agriculture, food systems planning, or disaster preparedness related to food security.
Agricultural Development Specialist: Graduates can work in agricultural development projects globally, collaborating with communities, governments, and organizations to improve agricultural practices, increase yields, and ensure food security. This role involves implementing sustainable farming techniques, promoting crop diversity, and enhancing food supply chains.
Researcher in Food Security and Sustainability: Many graduates pursue careers as researchers, conducting studies on food security issues, climate change impacts on agriculture, and innovative solutions for sustainable food production. They may work within academic institutions, research organizations, or think tanks focused on agriculture and environmental sciences.
Food Supply Chain Manager: Food supply chain management roles involve overseeing the production, distribution, and logistics of food products. Graduates ensure efficient and sustainable supply chains, reduce food waste, and address challenges related to food transportation and storage.
Nutrition Program Manager: Some graduates focus on nutrition-related roles, managing programs that promote healthy diets and combat malnutrition. They work with communities, schools, and healthcare organizations to improve access to nutritious food and educate populations on balanced diets.
Humanitarian Aid Worker: Within humanitarian organizations, graduates may work in emergency food assistance programs in regions affected by conflict, natural disasters, or food crises. They coordinate relief efforts, assess food security needs, and implement interventions to ensure food access for vulnerable populations.
Food Entrepreneurship: Graduates with an entrepreneurial mindset may establish food-related startups or social enterprises focused on sustainable food production, innovative food technologies, or community food initiatives.
Academic and Teaching Positions: Some graduates pursue further studies or academic careers, conducting research and teaching in universities or colleges specializing in food security, agriculture, or environmental studies.
International Development Officer: Graduates can work in international development organizations, promoting food security initiatives, capacity building, and partnerships to address global food challenges.
