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Introduction to the Masters in Climate Change and Sustainable Development

The Masters in Climate Change and Sustainable Development is a full-time, one-year taught course that provides interdisciplinary training in climate change and sustainable development, with a focus on issues relevant to African development. The course is convened by the University of Cape Town's African Climate and Development Initiative, a signature theme comprising academics and research units from across the university with a shared interest in interdisciplinary research and solutions to the climate change problem.

Program Overview

The course begins in late January and finishes with a dissertation hand-in deadline of end January the following year. The program involves:

• Two compulsory core modules:
  • Introduction to Climate Change and Sustainable Development: providing broad, integrated knowledge on key issues in the climate change and sustainable development field.
  • Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation: providing in-depth coverage of adaptation and mitigation from both theoretical and applied points of view.
• Two elective modules, chosen from a range of topics, offering the opportunity to explore new areas or to look at climate and development through existing disciplinary backgrounds.
• A 90-credit dissertation to be submitted by the end of January, with possible extension to June.

Eligibility and Application Process

To be eligible to apply for the Masters in Climate Change and Development, a candidate must have the equivalent to a University of Cape Town Honours degree. This is a minimum of a four-year degree, with a significant research component in the fourth year. The application process involves submitting:

• Scanned academic transcripts
• Curriculum vitae
• Writing Sample (minimum 6 pages, maximum 20)
• Two academic references on the departmental reference form
• Statement of interest (maximum 1000 words) including motivation for attending the course The closing date for applications is 31 August of the year preceding the intended year of study.

Career Opportunities

The course will equip its graduates for employment in government, local authorities, businesses with a sustainability agenda, consultancies, NGOs, and international development organisations. It is aimed at both recent graduates and those with several years' experience who wish to engage with these pressing issues within the context of their vocations.

Research Areas

The program focuses on issues relevant to African development, including climate change, sustainable development, and their intersections. The research areas covered include:

• Climate system analysis
• Bio-economy research
• African climate and development initiative
• Urban systems and climate change
• Climate change and biodiversity

Conclusion

The Masters in Climate Change and Sustainable Development at the University of Cape Town offers a unique opportunity for students to engage with the complex issues surrounding climate change and sustainable development, with a focus on African development. The program provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding these issues, preparing graduates for a range of career opportunities in this field.