MSc Environmental Modelling

Overview | Structure | Staff | Fees | Apply | Further Information

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Overview

There is a growing need for qualified professionals with expertise in environmental modelling, not just from the scientific community but also from the perspective of environmental management and the need for critical interpretation and evaluation of model-based environmental science. The UCL MSc in Environmental Modelling is a new multidisciplinary degree that provides rigorous technical and scientific training for the next generation of environmental modelling professionals.

The programme draws upon the unrivalled strengths of the UCL in modelling across a broad range of environmental science disciplines. Our expertise encompasses state-of-the-art global and regional general circulation and ocean models, advanced hydrodynamic and hydrological simulations, palaeoclimate reconstruction over geological to recent historical timescales, and earth observation-derived vegetation and carbon cycle modelling. We also have a particular focus on model-based assessment of climate change impacts on coastal, estuarine and freshwater systems.

The programme aims to equipped students with a well-rounded training in the role, implementation and application of models in environmental science. Core modules provide a critical perspective on model-based science, and introduce core computational and numerical methods. The course is contextualised with reference to the challenges of understanding both natural and human-induced changes to a variety of environmental systems.

Who will benefit from the programme?

The UCL MSc Environmental Modelling is designed to appeal to students from a range of disciplines looking to obtain a sound appreciation of model-based approach to environmental science and management. It will appeal not only to those with backgrounds in environmental sciences (such as geography, geology and oceanography) but also to those with a background in other sciences (physics, biology) or engineering who wish to develop their skills in an environmental science context. The MSc provides an ideal foundation for PhD research, or for employment with environmental monitoring and protection agencies, industry and environmental consultancies.

The MSc is run by UCL Department of Geography, which enjoys an outstanding international reputation for its research and teaching. Research groups contributing to the MSc include those concerned with Environmental Modelling; Environmental Change; and Environment, Landscape and Society. Students on this degree will join a vibrant but informal academic environment of mutual discovery and free-ranging debate.

Aims

The MSc Environmental Modelling aims to:

• develop a strong interdisciplinary understanding of role and nature of models in environmental science
• provide structured training and practical skills in the selection, implementation of a appropriate modelling approach.
• provide a critical perspective on human impacts on the earth’s natural systems and the challenges associated with modelling these.
• introduce more specialised modelling problems associated with the impacts of climate change, surface and groundwaters, estuarine and coastal change
• foster an ability to conceptualise a problem and to formulate and manage a research project.
• impart a thorough understanding of the fundamentals of scientific computing, including the ability to obtain and manipulate datasets.
• produce highly marketable graduates who will be able to take leading roles in academic, government or industrial sectors.

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Structure

The MSc Environmental Modelling runs over a full year, but can also be taken part-time. All students take four core modules in Term 1 (autumn). These establish the fundamentals of modelling, the environmental contexts within which it is applied and introduce key computing and mathematical methods, to provide students with the technical skills necessary for the remainder of the degree. In Term 2 (spring) students take four advanced option courses on specialist aspects of environmental modelling. These draw upon the wide range of academic expertise and research interests at UCL. Student learning is supported by tutorials, transferable skills training and research supervision throughout the year. The final element of the degree, the individual research project, is completed over the summer term and vacation. Depending on staff availability, there may be small changes in the option courses offered from one year to the next.

The following modules will be available for 2012/13. Please note these are subject to change.

COMPULSORY MODULES (Term One)

Module code	Module title	UCL Credit value
GEOGG120	Models in Environmental Science	15 credits
CEGE080	Data Analysis	15 credits
GEOGG122	Scientific Computing	15 credits
GEOGG131	The Anthropocene	15 credits

OPTIONAL MODULES (Term Two)

Module code	Module title	UCL Credit value
GEOGG065	Environmental GIS	15 credits
GEOGG100	Coastal Change	15 credits
GEOGG101	Surface Water Modelling	15 credits
GEOGG123	Impacts of Climate Change on Hydroecological Systems	15 credits
GEOGG124	Terrestrial Carbon: Modelling and Monitoring	15 credits
GEOGG134	Climate Modelling	15 credits
GEOG157	Airbourne Data Acquisition	15 credits

Additionally, students undertake a piece of original research with the support of an academic supervisor, leading to a dissertation of up to 15,000 words (60 credits).

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Staff

The following members of staff currently contribute to this programme:

• Chris Brierley
  
• Helene Burningham
• Mathias Disney
• Jon French
• Jonathan Holmes
• Viv Jones
• Anson Mackay
• Mark Maslin
• Sam Randalls
• Neil Rose
• Richard Taylor
• Julian Thompson

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Fees

Fees for full time UK/EU students for 2012-13 are £7,750. Fees for full time overseas students for 2012-13 are £15,500.

UCL scholarships

For more information on UCL scholarships, please visit: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/scholarships/

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Apply

Potential applicants are expected to have a first or upper second-class Honours degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. oceanography, marine studies, geography, civil engineering, geology, mathematics, and physics) from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Applicants with relevant professional experience in environmental science or environmental management will also be considered. Formal qualifications in mathematics are not a prerequisite for entry, but students are expected to have an aptitude for mathematical studies and if necessary to undertake revision prior to the start of the programme.

To apply, please contact the Graduate Admissions Secretary (masters@geog.ucl.ac.uk) to request a Graduate Application Pack.

Application for 2012-13 admission closes Friday August 3rd. We will not accept any applications after this date. Applicants who require a student visa should do their utmost to submit the programme application form before 31st July to ensure that there is enough time to process all the necessary paperwork.

Application materials may also be downloaded at: www.ucl.ac.uk/admission/graduate-study/application-admission/

Academic enquiries may be addressed to Fiona Mannion at f.mannion@ucl.ac.uk.

A Geography Graduate Open Day is taking place on Wednesday 8th February 2012. For further information and to book a place please email linda.fuller@ucl.ac.uk

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Further Information

A short brochure can be downloaded here.	A more detailed course handbook can be downloaded here.