SOAS, University of London (The School of Oriental and African Studies)

Structure

For the MSc in Environmental Management students will take:

• 4 core modules
• 3 elective modules*
• 2 research modules

  * including one free choice from across all programmes (subject to approval on the Programme Convenor)

Core Modules

• Introduction to Environmental Economics & Policy (C170)
• Environmental Science & Management (C200)
• Environmental Assessment (C207)
• Environmental Auditing and Environmental Management Systems (C208)

Elective Modules

• Environmental Valuation: Theory, Techniques and Application (C122)
• Climate Change and Development (C124)
• Water Resource Management (C126)
• NGO Management (C132)
• Sustainable Land Management (C168)
• Sustainable Forest Management (C185)
• Biodiversity and Conservation Management (C198)
• International Environmental Law (C214)
• Ethics and Environmental Practice (C263)
• one module selected from another programme

Research Modules

• Research Methods (R106)
• Dissertation (RR01)

Teaching & Learning

Teaching & Learning

1. Academic level

All CeDEP programmes are taught to Master’s (Second Cycle) level, which involves building upon existing knowledge and understanding typically associated with the Bachelor’s (First Cycle) level or its equivalent. Study at Master’s level requires:

• originality in developing and/or applying ideas, and extending or enhancing previous learning
• application of knowledge and understanding, including problem solving in new or unfamiliar environments within broader (or multidisciplinary) contexts
• integration of knowledge and handling of complexity
• formulating judgements with incomplete or limited information, including reflection on social and ethical responsibilities
• clear and unambiguous communication of conclusions, and the knowledge and rationale underpinning these, to specialist and non-specialist audiences
• learning skills to study in a manner that may be largely self-directed or autonomous

Prospective students should note that distance education of this kind demands a high degree of commitment, determination and self-discipline. Whilst CeDEP provides significant support through the tutorial system and by other means, students taking on programmes of this nature should possess a strong measure of self-reliance.

2. Study Expectations

How long will it take?

For students in full time employment, the MSc and Postgraduate Diploma, usually take three or four years to complete and the Certificate 2 years.

* For students wishing to complete their MSc in two years they should start the Research Component in year 1.

When will you study?

The study year commences in February and modules are examined in October of each year. This time includes a period of 30 weeks for study and 4 weeks for revision. This applies to modules studied under the MSc, PGDip and PGCert programmes.
For modules taken under the Individual Professional Award scheme, most students will follow the 30 week study period commencing in February, although there is an option (for selected modules) to start studying in June ready for the October examinations (15 week study period).

How many hours a week?

We estimate that students will need to study for 5-6 hours per week, per module.

We strongly recommend that students should take only one or two modules in their first year as they adjust to combining studying at a distance with work and family life. Students wishing to register for more than three modules in their first year should satisfy their academic programme convenor that their personal circumstances will allow sufficient study time for this on a weekly basis.

How many modules can I take per study year?

We strongly recommend that students should take only one or two modules in their first year, so that they can adjust to studying at a distance, whilst combining this with work and family life.

Students wishing to register for more than three modules in their first year should satisfy their academic programme convenor that their personal circumstances will allow sufficient study time for this on a weekly basis (e.g. those students not in employment or in part-time employment).

3. Assessment

How you will be assessed

For each module you will sit a two-hour unseen examination held on a specific date in October, worth 80% of your total module mark. There is also an Examined Assignment (worth 20% of the total module mark) which is submitted during the study year and marked by your tutor.

Examination arrangements

Examinations are held in students’ countries of residence, using the University of London’s network of approved Overseas Examination Authorities. Fees for taking examinations at all examination centres other than London are the responsibility of the student.
Assignments are submitted to CeDEP electronically via the online learning environment.

Assessment of the Research Component

The Research Methods module (R106) and the Dissertation (RR01) are not assessed through final written examinations. These two modules constitute the Research Component of an MSc and are assessed entirely by submitted coursework.

4. Research Component

In order to qualify for an MSc, it is mandatory for CeDEP students to pass the Research Component.

The Research Component comprises two of the nine modules necessary for completion of an MSc. These are a Research Methods module (R106) and the Dissertation (RR01). The modules are assessed as follows:

• R106 through two examined assignments submitted during the study year
• RR01 through a 10,000 word dissertation

The Research Component is studied over two consecutive years. The Research Methods module (R106) must be studied and successfully passed before the Dissertation module (RR01). This is because it provides skills and techniques which will assist with the subsequent development and conduct of your research and preparation of your dissertation. Students are required to enrol and pay for R106and RR01 at the same time.

The dissertation is usually carried out during the final year of registration with CeDEP. Students conduct desk- or field-based research in a relevant topic of their choice. All research topics are subject to approval and each student is assigned a personal supervisor. Background reading and preparation of the proposal take place between the October exams and commencement of the final study year in February.

Destinations

Career prospects for graduates

Graduates of this programme typically apply skills in natural resource management, environmental appraisal, environmental auditing and analysis and policy design to the work of:

• government ministries and related agencies, performing environmental planning and/or policy analysis work
• private companies and consultancies preparing environmental assessments, evaluations and policy advice
• corporations implementing programmes to meet goals of social and environmental responsibility
• research and educational institutions involved in environmental management and sustainable development
• international and non-governmental organisations concerned with economic development and environmental change
• charitable trusts and organisations carrying out conservation and educational field work

How to Apply