About the opportunity
The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security is a two-year postgraduate programme offered by the Department of Geography at the University of Bonn and the UNU-EHS. It provides students with an interdisciplinary approach to environmental risks and human security, addressing theoretical and methodological debates in geography. The curriculum covers vulnerability assessment, disaster management, climate change adaptation, and GIS, among other fields. The programme includes 12 modules, a compulsory eight-week internship, and a Master’s thesis. It aims to prepare students for careers in international organizations, research, and the private sector, with a strong focus on the Global South.
Funding and benefits
- Access to an interdisciplinary learning environment with exposure to the UN system and international organizations.
- Opportunities to engage in ongoing research projects at UNU-EHS and the University of Bonn.
- Fully-funded DAAD EPOS scholarships available for eligible candidates from developing countries.
- Practical experience through a compulsory eight-week internship.
Who can apply?
- Hold a first higher education qualification (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in Geography or a related academic field.
- Academic background must show a majority of courses in Human Geography/Social Sciences, Science methodology/empirical research, and Physical Geography/Geosciences.
- Strong motivation to contribute to human security and risk management.
- Proof of English language proficiency (unless native speaker from Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, UK, or USA).
- Not targeted at graduates in Engineering or International Relations (unless profile relates strongly to environmental risks).
- PhD students or PhD holders are not eligible.
Required documents
- Online application confirmation
- Motivation letter (1-2 pages)
- Recent CV in EUROPASS format (max 3 pages)
- Academic degree certificate(s)
- Transcript(s) of records
- English language proficiency certificate
- Academic reference(s) (optional, max 2)
- Copy of passport
- Other relevant references (optional, max 3)
- APS Certificate (only for applicants from China, India, or Viet Nam)
- Academic writing sample (separate PDF)
- Additional documents for DAAD EPOS applicants: DAAD checklist, DAAD application form, scholarship motivation letter, professional reference, and work certificates (min 2 years experience)
When to apply
- Application period: 31 July 2026 to 31 October 2026.
- Programme start date: October 2027.
How to apply
- Read all programme information and FAQs thoroughly.
- Submit the online application form.
- Prepare and merge required documents into one PDF package (max 8MB).
- Rename the file as [last name.first name].pdf.
- Send the application package via email to master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu.
- Submit the academic writing sample as a separate PDF file.
Additional information
- The programme is a joint degree between UNU-EHS and the University of Bonn.
- DAAD EPOS scholarship selection occurs between February and April.
- Applicants not eligible for EPOS are encouraged to seek other funding sources in Germany.
- Writing sample must be an original essay (max 1000 words) answering specific questions about academic/professional experience and thesis plans.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Students with a background in Geography, Social Sciences, or Geosciences who are passionate about environmental risk and human security.
- Individuals seeking an interdisciplinary education that combines academic research with exposure to the UN system.
What should you think carefully about?
- The program is on-site in Bonn, Germany, requiring relocation for the duration of the two-year degree.
- Applicants must ensure their academic background meets specific requirements in human geography and research methodology.
- While DAAD EPOS scholarships are available for eligible candidates from developing countries, other students must secure their own funding.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This program is designed for those aiming to launch a career in international organizations, research, or sustainable development. It provides the necessary practical experience, including a compulsory internship, to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice in the field of human security.
Our take
Students committed to environmental risk management who are prepared to manage their own funding or apply for specific scholarships should consider this program.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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