Master of Climate Change Science and Policy

Program Overview

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The Master of Climate Change Science and Policy (MCCSP) at Victoria University of Wellington equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge and skills to address climate change challenges. Combining science and policy perspectives, the program offers a comprehensive understanding of climate science, policy, and societal implications. Graduates are prepared for careers in climate change-related fields, including policy, mitigation, adaptation, communication, and sustainability.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Master of Climate Change Science and Policy (MCCSP)

This program equips students with the interdisciplinary knowledge and skills to address the global challenge of climate change. It combines physical science and human systems perspectives to offer a comprehensive understanding of the science, policy, and societal implications of climate change.

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Objectives:

• Provide a deep understanding of the science and policy of climate change.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills for addressing climate change challenges.
• Prepare graduates for careers in climate change-related fields.

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Program Description:

The MCCSP is a 180-point, multi-disciplinary program consisting of coursework and a research essay or placement with an external organization. It can be completed in 3 trimesters full-time or 6 trimesters part-time.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

The MCCSP curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Climate science and impacts
• Climate change policy and governance
• Mitigation and adaptation strategies
• Climate change communication and public engagement
• Sustainability and ethical considerations

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Structure:

The program consists of 7-8 taught courses, a research essay or placement, and a capstone project.

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Course Schedule:

The program is offered in a trimester format, with new intakes in July and February.

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Modules:

• Climate Change Science: This module provides a foundation in the science of climate change, including the Earth's climate system, greenhouse gases, and climate modeling.
• Climate Change Policy and Governance: This module explores the policy landscape for addressing climate change, including international agreements, national policies, and local initiatives.
• Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies: This module examines various strategies for mitigating and adapting to climate change, including renewable energy, energy efficiency, carbon capture and storage, and adaptation planning.
• Climate Change Communication and Public Engagement: This module focuses on effective communication of climate science and policy to diverse audiences.
• Sustainability and Ethical Considerations: This module explores the ethical and sustainability implications of climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
• The program has a strong emphasis on research and hands-on learning.
• Students have the opportunity to participate in field trips and guest lectures.
• The program is supported by a dedicated faculty with expertise in climate change science and policy.

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• Assignments
• Exams
• Presentations
• Research project/placement report

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Assessment Criteria:

• Depth of understanding
• Critical thinking
• Problem-solving skills
• Communication skills
• Research and analytical skills

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Seminars
• Field trips
• Guest lectures

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Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of experienced and internationally-recognized researchers and practitioners in climate change science and policy.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, combining science and policy perspectives.
• Students have the opportunity to work on real-world climate change projects.
• The program offers a strong focus on research and hands-on learning.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

Graduates of the MCCSP can pursue careers in a variety of fields related to climate change, including:

• Climate change policy and governance
• Climate change mitigation and adaptation
• Climate change research
• Climate change communication and public engagement
• Sustainability consulting

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Career Opportunities:

• Government agencies
• Non-governmental organizations
• International organizations
• Private sector companies
• Research institutions

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Outcomes:

Graduates of the MCCSP are well-prepared to make a significant contribution to addressing the global challenge of climate change. They are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience to succeed in a variety of careers related to climate change.

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Other:

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Community:

Wellington is a vibrant and culturally-rich city with a strong focus on sustainability.

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Scholarships:

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Estimated Fees in Other Currencies:

You can use the online currency converter to estimate the fees in your preferred currency.

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Estimated domestic fees for 2024 NZ$16,477 for the full programme (NZ$14,791 course costs + NZ$1,686 student service fees)