MSc Global Change: Ecosystem Science & Policy
Global change refers to planetary-scale changes occurring in complex socio-ecological systems, which are affected by climatic and non-climatic drivers (e.g., changes in human society). Understanding the intricate, medium- to long-term changes in our land, air and water requires advanced scientific knowledge in measurement, modelling and prediction. This should in turn inform the science-policy interface.
Quick Facts
| Duration | 16 months full-time |
| Start Date | September |
| Tuition Fee | Please contact UCD using the form for information on fees. |
| Location | Dublin, Ireland |
Understanding the intricate, medium- to long-term changes in our land, air and water requires advanced scientific knowledge in measurement, modelling and prediction. This should in turn inform the science-policy interface.
This joint international MSc in Global Change is the response to these global change challenges and will suit graduates wishing to develop a scientific career in ecosystem research as well as those aiming to contribute to evidence-based environmental policy. Students will study at both UCD, Dublin and Justus Liebig University (JLU) Giessen, Germany where you will be involved in active research groups, contributing to their ongoing ecosystem and policy consultancy studies.
Courses included:
A full list of modules is available for the MSc Global Change: Ecosystem Science & Policy. Modules are subject to change and are not guaranteed by UCD.
Career Opportunities
- Graduates may pursue roles as policy advisers, scientific analysts or researchers in government, international organisations, NGOs, research institutes or consulting companies. There are also many opportunities for further studies. The skills you acquire, particularly through the completion of the minor thesis, provide a strong foundation for PhD research.
- Prospective employers include the Environmental Protection Agency, governmental departments, European Commission, European Environment Agency and International organisations (e.g. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, United Nations Environment Programme, International Union for the Conservation of Nature, Food and Agricultural Organisation).
Why study with us?
UCD is consistently ranked in the top 1% of higher education institutions worldwide. In the 2022 QS World University Rankings, UCD was again named as one of the best universities globally, and was placed 173rd in the world.
UCD is the most international and diverse university in Ireland with 8,500 international students from 130 different countries. Our network of 288,000 successful and influential alumni can be found in 169 different countries around the world.
The UCD campus is one of the largest urban campuses in Europe and is situated just 5 kilometres from Ireland’s capital city of Dublin. Our students enjoy world-class teaching and learning facilities, modern and comfortable student accommodation, state-of-the art sports and fitness amenities, an Olympic sized swimming pool, a cinema, cafes and student centre all on our beautiful, nature-filled campus.