MSc Accounting
The MSc Accounting at the University of Manchester, United Kingdom, is a specialized po...
MSc Research Methods with Human Geography
Manchester, England
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The MSc Research Methods with Human Geography program at the University of Manchester is designed to provide students with advanced skills and knowledge in research methodologies within the context of human geography. The program offers a blend of theoretical and practical learning, enabling students to explore various geographic issues such as urban development, social inequality, migration, and environmental sustainability. By focusing on research design, data collection, and analysis, this program equips students to conduct independent, impactful research that can contribute to policy-making, urban planning, and understanding social and spatial phenomena. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector, where they can apply their research expertise to address pressing global challenges.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc Research Methods with Human Geography program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Core modules include topics such as research design, data analysis, geographic information systems (GIS), spatial data, and ethnographic research methods. Students will also engage in modules focused on human geography theory, such as topics in migration, urban studies, and environmental justice. Optional modules allow students to specialize in areas that interest them, such as global environmental change, urban regeneration, or social geography. The program culminates in a dissertation project, where students conduct original research and apply the skills they have learned throughout the course to investigate a geographic issue of their choice.
Research Focus: The MSc Research Methods with Human Geography program places a strong emphasis on the development of research skills that are essential for conducting high-quality, interdisciplinary geographic research. Students will explore how geographic phenomena relate to broader social, economic, and environmental issues. Research areas of focus include urbanization, migration, social and spatial inequalities, environmental sustainability, and the interplay between human and natural systems. Students are encouraged to critically examine the social structures, power dynamics, and policy frameworks that shape geographic outcomes. The program prepares students to contribute to geographic research that influences urban planning, development policy, and environmental conservation efforts.
Industry Engagement: The University of Manchester’s MSc Research Methods with Human Geography program offers opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals, local government bodies, NGOs, and research organizations. Through guest lectures, seminars, and collaborative projects, students will gain real-world exposure to the applications of geographic research in areas such as urban planning, environmental sustainability, and social policy. The program’s strong links with industry partners enable students to undertake internships and research placements, providing them with valuable practical experience. These collaborations also foster networking opportunities, helping students to build professional relationships that may benefit them in their future careers.
Global Perspective: The MSc Research Methods with Human Geography program is rooted in a global perspective, preparing students to engage with geographic issues on an international scale. The program examines human geography from both local and global contexts, encouraging students to explore global challenges such as climate change, migration, and urbanization. Students will be encouraged to consider how geographic research can inform policy and practice in different parts of the world, whether through international development, disaster response, or global health initiatives. The global outlook of the program is further enhanced by the University of Manchester’s international partnerships and collaborative research projects, providing students with opportunities to work on global geographic challenges and engage with experts from around the world.
Location
Manchester, England
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 25000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application fee: £60
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual component below 6.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Manchester offers a range of scholarships to support international students in funding their education and making their academic journey more accessible. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, support students from diverse backgrounds, and help ease the financial challenges of studying abroad.
Global Futures Scholarship: The Global Futures Scholarship is a prestigious award for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and potential. This scholarship offers a £5,000 contribution towards tuition fees, providing financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship is open to students from specific countries and disciplines, so it is essential to check eligibility criteria and deadlines.
Manchester Master’s Bursary: The Manchester Master’s Bursary is a financial aid program aimed at helping postgraduate students who come from lower-income backgrounds. This bursary offers support for UK, EU, and international students who wish to pursue a master’s degree at the university. The bursary can cover a significant portion of tuition fees and is awarded based on financial need.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Many departments at the University of Manchester offer subject-specific scholarships for students enrolling in their programs. For example, students applying for programs in engineering, business, life sciences, and the arts may be eligible for additional funding based on academic performance and their future potential. These scholarships are often offered to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication to their field of study.
Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship is a fully-funded award provided by the UK government, open to outstanding international students from over 160 countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and other related costs. The University of Manchester is a proud participant in this global program and welcomes applications from students wishing to pursue a master's degree in a variety of disciplines.
Commonwealth Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers fully funded scholarships for international students from Commonwealth countries. These scholarships support students pursuing postgraduate studies in fields such as engineering, health sciences, and education. They cover the full cost of tuition fees, travel, and living expenses during the duration of the program.
Regional Scholarships: The university also offers regional scholarships for students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. These scholarships are designed to make studying at the University of Manchester more accessible to students from these regions and offer both partial and full financial support depending on the scholarship type.
Graduates of the MSc Research Methods with Human Geography program at the University of Manchester are well-equipped for a wide range of careers in academia, government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), urban planning, research institutions, and the private sector. The program's emphasis on research methodologies, spatial analysis, and human geography theory enables graduates to pursue roles that require expertise in geographical analysis and social research.
Urban Planner: With a focus on spatial analysis, urbanization, and societal issues, graduates can work as urban planners. In this role, they will develop plans for land use, transportation systems, and infrastructure while considering social, environmental, and economic factors. Urban planners often work in local government agencies, private consulting firms, and international development organizations.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Analyst: Graduates with strong spatial analysis skills can pursue careers as GIS analysts, where they use geographic data to solve problems related to land use, environmental conservation, urban development, and transportation. GIS analysts play a vital role in collecting, analyzing, and presenting spatial data to inform decision-making in government, non-profits, and private organizations.
Environmental Consultant: For graduates with an interest in sustainability and environmental issues, becoming an environmental consultant offers opportunities to apply human geography research to environmental challenges. Environmental consultants help organizations manage natural resources, assess environmental impact, and implement sustainability strategies. They work with both the public and private sectors on environmental policy and planning projects.
Social Researcher: Graduates can become social researchers, specializing in the study of human behavior, societal trends, and the relationship between communities and their environments. In this role, they may conduct qualitative and quantitative research on topics such as migration, urban development, poverty, and social inequalities. Social researchers work in academic institutions, research organizations, and public sector agencies.
Policy Analyst in Geography or Urban Studies: Graduates can work as policy analysts, particularly within government agencies or think tanks, analyzing geographic and social data to influence policy-making. They may research issues such as urban growth, migration, and housing affordability to provide data-driven recommendations for social and urban policies. This role involves assessing policy effectiveness and advising on potential changes.
International Development Specialist: Graduates interested in global issues can work in international development, applying their geographic expertise to global challenges such as poverty, migration, and environmental sustainability. These specialists may work for international organizations such as the UN, World Bank, or NGOs to design and implement development programs aimed at improving education, health, and economic stability in developing countries.
Environmental Policy Advisor: With expertise in environmental issues, graduates can pursue careers as environmental policy advisors. They analyze environmental data and trends to develop policies that promote sustainability, environmental conservation, and climate change mitigation. This role can be performed within government bodies, environmental NGOs, or private consulting firms.
Academic Researcher or Lecturer: For those passionate about academia, graduates can become researchers or lecturers in higher education institutions. They can contribute to the academic field by conducting original research, publishing findings, and teaching future students. This role allows individuals to specialize in areas such as human geography theory, urban studies, or environmental policy.
NGO/Charity Worker in Social and Environmental Justice: Graduates can work with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or charities focused on social and environmental justice. They may take on roles related to advocacy, research, project management, or policy development, working to address global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and refugee displacement.
Transportation Planner: With expertise in spatial analysis and urban development, graduates can work as transportation planners, designing transportation systems that are efficient, sustainable, and equitable. This may involve studying traffic patterns, public transit, and infrastructure needs to create effective solutions for urban areas. Transportation planners often work with city governments, regional authorities, and private contractors.
Community Development Officer: Graduates can pursue careers in community development, focusing on social justice, urban regeneration, and improving the quality of life in disadvantaged areas. This role involves working closely with local communities to design and implement programs that promote social inclusion, improve housing, and support local economies.
Data Analyst in Geography: Graduates skilled in data analysis can work as data analysts in geographical and social research fields. They collect, interpret, and present data related to human geography, environmental change, and urban development. Their work supports decision-making in government, research institutes, and private firms involved in geographic data collection and analysis.
Climate Change Specialist: Graduates with an interest in environmental sustainability can pursue careers as climate change specialists. They assess the impact of climate change on communities, ecosystems, and economies, advising governments and organizations on mitigation and adaptation strategies. These roles often require expertise in geography, environmental science, and policy.
Real Estate Development and Housing Specialist: With a solid foundation in spatial research and urban geography, graduates can work in real estate development or housing policy. They analyze housing markets, urban growth trends, and environmental impacts to advise on housing projects, urban renewal, and sustainable development practices.
Government Official or Civil Servant (Urban Affairs or Environmental Planning): Graduates can pursue roles in local or national government as civil servants, focusing on urban affairs, environmental planning, or development projects. They work on policy implementation, data collection, and public service delivery, influencing the design and execution of government projects aimed at improving urban life and sustainability.
