If you are passionate about climate change, disaster management, and the future of human security, here’s an opportunity to turn that passion into a career. The Joint Master of Science in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security—offered by the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) and the University of Bonn—is now open for applications for the 2026 spring intake.
This highly respected two-year programme, located in Bonn, Germany, equips students with the theoretical knowledge, methodological skills, and practical experiences needed to understand and manage environmental risks in a rapidly changing world.
Why Choose This Programme?
This joint MSc stands out because it combines academic excellence with global exposure. Since its launch in 2013, the programme has welcomed over 250 students from 46 countries, creating a vibrant, multicultural learning community.
The highlights include:
- Interdisciplinary focus: Explore vulnerability, resilience, adaptation, and human-nature relationships.
- UN collaboration: Gain access to networks within the United Nations system and international organizations.
- Practical training: Complete an eight-week compulsory internship and conduct independent thesis research.
- Strong career outcomes: Alumni work in disaster risk reduction, humanitarian aid, climate policy, food security, spatial planning, and more.
- Focus on developing countries (Global South): Research and training tailored to global development challenges.
Fields of Expertise
The programme covers diverse, cutting-edge fields, including:
- Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Management
- Vulnerability and Resilience Assessment
- Ecosystem Services and Sustainable Development
- Geomorphology and Socio-Hydrology
- Future Studies, GIS & Remote Sensing
- Human-Nature Relations and Development Geography
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Geography or a closely related field. Relevant areas include:
- Human Geography & Social Sciences (development, society, spatial patterns)
- Physical Geography & Environmental Sciences (Earth System Science)
- Scientific Methodology & Research Methods.
Please note:
- Engineering, International Relations, or unrelated degrees are not eligible (unless strongly linked to environmental risks).
- PhD holders or current PhD students cannot apply.
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge, etc.) is required, unless you are from a native English-speaking country.
Which Scholarships are Available for these Programmes?
A major advantage of this programme is its inclusion in the DAAD’s EPOS scholarship scheme. Through EPOS, fully funded scholarships are available to students from eligible developing countries.
EPOS scholarship benefits include:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel and health insurance
- Additional research and study support
Eligibility for EPOS scholarships requires:
- Being a citizen of a DAAD-listed developing country
- At least two years of professional work experience after your Bachelor’s degree
- A degree completed within the last six years
- A clear plan to pursue a practitioner career in development (not a PhD track).
Apply: https://unu.edu/ehs/learning/msc-geography-environmental-risks-and-human-security#Scholarships
The last date to apply for the Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security is 15 December 2025.