Scholarship
UNU Bonn MSc Scholarship – Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security
Offered by United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) / University of Bonn
Location
Germany
Funding
Fully Funded
Study level
Master's
Field of study
Environmental Sciences, Development Studies
Application deadline
October 31, 2026

About This Scholarship
The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security is a two-year interdisciplinary postgraduate programme jointly offered by the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) and the Department of Geography at the University of Bonn in Germany. The programme is designed for graduates who want to develop advanced academic and practical knowledge of environmental risks, vulnerability, resilience, climate-related challenges and human security.
The programme examines how environmental hazards and changes affect people, communities and societies. It brings together geographical, environmental, social and development perspectives to help students understand why some populations are more exposed or vulnerable to environmental risks and how societies can strengthen their capacity to prepare for, respond to and recover from such challenges.
Students explore a range of issues connected with environmental risks and human security. These may include climate-related hazards, disaster risk reduction, vulnerability assessment, environmental change, resilience, adaptation, sustainable development and the relationship between environmental processes and human well-being.
A major feature of the programme is its interdisciplinary approach. Environmental risks cannot always be understood from a single academic perspective, so students are exposed to concepts and research approaches from geography, environmental science, development studies and related fields. This allows participants to examine environmental challenges not only as physical processes but also in relation to social vulnerability, development and human security.
The programme also has a strong research orientation. Students develop analytical and research skills that can be applied to environmental and development questions. Through postgraduate coursework and research activities, participants have the opportunity to engage with current scientific discussions surrounding climate change, disaster risk, environmental vulnerability and sustainable development.
Students benefit from the academic environment created through the collaboration between UNU-EHS and the University of Bonn. UNU-EHS is internationally involved in research and education concerning environmental risks and human security, while the University of Bonn provides a broader university environment with established academic and research resources.
The programme can be relevant to graduates intending to work in environmental management, disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, development cooperation, humanitarian programmes, environmental policy, geographical research and related areas. It can also provide a foundation for students who intend to continue into doctoral research or other advanced academic work.
International applicants who are interested in financial support may be eligible to apply through the DAAD EPOS scholarship scheme. The scholarship is separate from admission to the Master's programme, meaning that applicants must satisfy the programme's admission requirements as well as the additional conditions established for DAAD EPOS funding.
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Check the official website for the latest eligibility requirements, application instructions and deadlines.



