African Studies with Environment

The MSc in African Studies with Environment at University College London offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary curriculum that explores the complex relationship between Africa's diverse societies and their natural environments. This programme is designed for students who are interested in understanding the social, political, economic, and ecological dimensions of environmental issues across the African continent. Through a combination of core modules, option courses, and a research dissertation, students will develop a critical understanding of sustainable development, environmental challenges, and policy responses pertinent to Africa. The programme emphasizes critical analysis, regional case studies, and the application of scholarly research to real-world problems. It provides students with valuable skills in research methodologies, policy analysis, and environmental management, preparing them for careers in academia, policy-making, development agencies, NGOs, and the private sector. The course also encourages engagement with current debates on climate change, land degradation, biodiversity, and resource management, highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive and context-specific solutions. Taught by leading experts in African studies and environmental sciences, the programme offers an excellent platform for students to gain a nuanced understanding of Africa's environmental issues within their broader social and political contexts. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme fosters critical thinking and intercultural competence, essential for addressing global environmental challenges with local perspectives. With access to UCL's extensive resources and networks, students will benefit from a vibrant academic community, opportunities for fieldwork, and connections with practitioners working at the forefront of African environmental issues. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to pursue advanced research, policy advisory roles, or careers in international development, environmental consultancy, and related fields, contributing meaningfully to sustainable solutions for Africa’s pressing environmental challenges.

The degree pathways share a common core, comprising modules on the continent’s political and economic past and present, together with training in research methods. In addition, the Environment pathway explores aspects of human-environment interaction, through a range of advanced optional modules drawn from the Departments of Anthropology, Archaeology and Geography and The UCL Bartlett Development Planning Unit.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of three core modules (45 credits), three optional modules (45 credits), and a dissertation/report (90 credits).

Core modules

• Africa: Dialogues of Past and Present
• Debating Africa's Future
• Research Methods in African Studies

Optional modules

• Students choose three from a range of options including the following:
• Adapting Cities to Climate Change in the Global South
• Climate Change and Human Response to Holocene Africa
• Climate Modelling
• Ecology of Human Groups
• Environmental GIS
• Holocene Climate Variability
• Impacts of Climate Change on Hydro-Ecological Systems
• Land, Food and Agriculture
• Population and Development
• Post-Disaster Recovery Policies, Practices and Alternatives

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars and guided independent research. Assessment is through essays, portfolio, research proposal and examination.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The African Studies with Environment program at University College London offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various funding sources, including government scholarships, university bursaries, and external awards. UCL provides merit-based scholarships for outstanding applicants, which can significantly reduce tuition fees and living expenses. Additionally, many students benefit from international scholarships tailored for African studies or environmental disciplines, available through government programs or international organizations. UCL also offers a limited number of need-based bursaries designed to assist students with financial circumstances that require additional support. Students are advised to apply early and ensure their scholarship applications include all necessary documentation to maximize their chances of securing funding. The university has a dedicated financial aid office that provides guidance on suitable funding routes and assists with the application process. Furthermore, students may consider external financial aid options such as private grants, charitable foundations, and NGOs that support African studies or environmental research. Part-time work opportunities are available both on and off campus, allowing students to earn supplementary income while gaining relevant experience. It is important for students to carefully plan their finances and budget for fees, accommodation, books, and living costs to ensure a smooth academic journey. The university’s website offers detailed information about all available financial support schemes, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. By taking advantage of these funding options, students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress. Scholarships and funding support are regularly updated, so prospective and current students are encouraged to check for the latest information and deadlines to optimize their chances of securing financial aid.

The MSc in African Studies with Environment at University College London offers a comprehensive examination of the interrelated issues of environmental change, ecological sustainability, and development within the African continent. This program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the historical, social, political, and economic dimensions that influence environmental policies and practices across diverse African regions. It combines interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from geography, anthropology, politics, and economics to foster a holistic perspective on Africa’s environmental challenges and opportunities.

Students in this programme engage with core topics such as climate change impacts, conservation strategies, resource management, sustainable development, and environmental governance. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical approaches, preparing graduates to work in academia, policy-making, NGOs, or international organizations focused on African environmental issues. The program often involves case studies that highlight contemporary challenges like desertification, deforestation, water scarcity, and urbanization, allowing students to analyze real-world situations and propose viable solutions.

As part of the MSc, students have access to a variety of research resources, including UCL's extensive library collections, digital databases, and fieldwork opportunities. They also benefit from the university’s strong links with African institutions and experts in the field, enabling networking and collaboration on ongoing projects. The program encourages critical thinking, research excellence, and policy analysis skills, positioning graduates to influence environmental sustainability efforts specifically within African contexts.

The academic year typically involves lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research work. Many students undertake a research dissertation that explores a specific aspect of African environmental issues, contributing original insights to ongoing academic discourse. UCL's central London location also provides a vibrant environment for exploring global and regional perspectives, fostering diverse academic discussions. Graduates of the MSc in African Studies with Environment are equipped to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development initiatives, environmental policy, research agencies, and advocacy groups dedicated to the African continent.