Institute of Development Studies

MSc Climate Change and Development

Climate change is the greatest challenge of our time. Emissions of greenhouse gases are directly influencing weather and climate, and unchecked will result in dangerous changes in the global climate. This has major implications for development, both in terms of transitioning to a low carbon global economy, and adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Climate change is already affecting the world's poorest and most vulnerable people, who often lack the robust systems and capacity needed to cope. While mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions is crucial to limiting impacts, substantial climate change is now inevitable and 'adaptation' is a central issue in development. Meeting these challenges requires qualified development professionals with expertise in the implications of climate change for contemporary development.

These specialists must understand both climate science and the complex, multi-dimensional scientific, socio-economic, technological, institutional and ethical dimensions of climate change mitigation and adaptation in a development context. The MSc in Climate Change and Development is a multidisciplinary course that aims to provide state-of-the-art training for future climate change and development professionals.

This programme is a joint programme offered by the School of Global Studies, University of Sussex together with IDS and the Science and Technology Policy Research Unit (SPRU). All three institutes have agenda-setting reputations in interdisciplinary teaching and research of science, development, and policy.

More details about MSc Climate Change and Development

Entry Requirements

A good honours degree in a social or natural science discipline, and work experience in development-related work. The minimum acceptable level of English language competence is grade 7 overall, and no less than 6.5 in each section of the IELTS test (or equivalent).

How to apply and fees

For further information please contact: Programme Coordinator, Harry Barnett      Phone: +44 (0)1273 877686
Email: globalstudiespg@sussex.ac.uk