Program Overview
Geography and Environment
Introduction
The Department of Geography and Environment's interdisciplinary research addresses societal challenges, earth surface and near-subsurface processes, and environmental change.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Degree Qualification: MSc or PhD
Research Area Navigation
Overview
- Our Research
- Entry Requirements
- Fees
- Careers
- Contact Us
Research Interests
Smart Sustainable Futures
- Focuses on the challenges of local and global transitions to low-carbon and sustainable societies.
- Research explores the spatial and temporal variation in these transitions and the role of governance, place, and people, and considers questions of environmental and social justice.
- This theme encompasses research on rural and community sustainability including demographic change, rural resilience, agricultural policy, environmental management, housing, and urban sustainability.
- Potential supervisors: Dr Paula Duffy, Dr Piotr Niewiadomski, Dr Joseph Pierce, Professor Lorna Philip, Dr Katrin Prager, Professor Tavis Potts and Dr Flurina Wartmann
Earth Surface Processes
- Cryosphere and Climate Change research spans a range of spatial and temporal scales focusing on past, present and future ice-climate interactions; ice sheet dynamics; glacial landform genesis; palaeoglaciology; and glacigenic reservoirs.
- Research applications of GIS, remote sensing, digital image processing and UAV data capture are applied to the coastal zone, viticulture, landscape and biodiversity.
- Hydrological research (organised through the Northern Rivers Institute) focuses on the application of tracing and tracer-aided modelling in the characterisation of hydrological systems; the ecohydrology of headwater catchments; hydrogeology and hydrogeophysics; water risk analysis; and sustainable water resource management.
- Potential Supervisors: Dr Anshuman Bhardwaj, Dr Jean-Christophe Comte, Dr Josie Geris, Dr David Green, Dr William Harcourt, Dr David Haro Monteagudo, Dr Bartosz Kurjanski, Prof Brice Rea, Dr Lydia Sam, Dr Shaktiman Singh, Prof Matteo Spagnolo, Prof Chris Soulsby
Palaeoecology
- Focuses on the reconstruction of long-term changes to the environment, landscape, vegetation and climate, with links to human activity during prehistory and early history.
- This is achieved through the application of multiple techniques using dedicated labs, and typically includes the analysis of pollen, plant macrofossils, non-pollen palynomorphs, charcoal, peat geochemistry and stable isotopes.
- The research is interdisciplinary and often involves collaboration with archaeologists, biologists, chemists, historians, and climate modellers.
- Potential Supervisors: Dr Dmitri Mauquoy, Professor Tim Mighall, Dr Ed Schofield
Entry Requirements
- To apply for this programme you must have at least a good Honours degree in a related subject or discipline.
- If English is not your first language you must also show evidence of attaining standards in English.
Fees and Funding
- View the tuition fee rates
- Eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Research Masters' students starting in September 2025 will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship.
Careers
- Our postgraduate research programmes equip students to address some of the most pressing local, regional and global challenges in Earth, Environmental and Social sciences, whether in industry, consulting, or academia.
- Many graduates pursue careers in a variety of fields, for example, in climate change, renewable energy, water resources management, natural hazards, environmental impact assessment and conservation, transport planning, humanitarian action, as part of government agencies, environmental consultancy, business and commerce, NGOs, and some go on to undertake specialized consultancy or research involving technical skills such as GIS, remote sensing and near-surface geophysics.
- Career Opportunities:
- Climate Change Coordinator
- Environmental Consultant
- GIS Consultant
- Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Analyst
- Geophysicist
- PhD Researcher
- Policy Advisor
- Renewables Advice Officer
World Class Facilities
- International community
- Sir Duncan Rice Library
Related Postgraduate Taught Degrees
- Geographical Information Systems
- Geographical Information Systems (online)
- Geophysics (with Pathways)
- Restorative Land Management and Rural Surveying
- Sustainability Transitions
- Sustainable Water Management
Program Outline
Outline:
- Research Themes: The program focuses on three research themes:
- Smart Sustainable Futures: This theme investigates the transition to low-carbon and sustainable societies, focusing on sectors like sustainable food production, tourism, energy, and the blue (marine) economy. Research explores spatial and temporal variations in transitions and the role of governance, place, and people.
- Earth Surface Processes: This theme covers research on ice-climate interactions, ice sheet dynamics, glacial landform genesis, palaeoglaciology, and glacigenic reservoirs. It also applies GIS, remote sensing, digital image processing, and UAV data capture to the coastal zone, viticulture, landscape, and biodiversity.
- Palaeoecology: This theme focuses on reconstructing long-term changes to environments, landscapes, and climates, with links to human activity during prehistory and early history. Research utilizes palynology, plant macrofossil analysis, non-pollen microfossils, peat geochemistry, and stable isotopes.
- Potential Supervisors: The context lists potential supervisors for each research theme, providing their expertise and research interests.
- Research Centres: The program is also embedded within research centres of excellence, including:
- Aberdeen Institute for Coastal Science and Management (AICSM)
- UAV/UAS Centre for Environmental Monitoring and Mapping (UCEMM)
- Northern Rivers Institute
- Green Economy Research Centre
- Medical and Health GIS
- GIS & History
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods: The program utilizes various teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, field trips, and individual supervision.
- Faculty: The program is taught by a team of experienced and internationally recognized researchers.
- Unique Approach: The program emphasizes interdisciplinary research, collaboration with external partners, and a strong focus on real-world applications.
Careers:
- Career Paths: Graduates of the program can pursue various career paths in academia, government, and the private sector.
- Opportunities: Potential career opportunities include research scientist, environmental consultant, policy analyst, and lecturer.
- International Applicants: The program welcomes international applicants. The program provides students with the opportunity to work with leading researchers and gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a successful career in their chosen field.
University of Aberdeen
Overview:
The University of Aberdeen is a renowned institution of higher learning located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It boasts a rich history, having been established in 1495, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. The university is known for its commitment to research and teaching, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic journey. These include:
Academic Support:
Access to libraries, study resources, and academic advisors.Student Life:
Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, societies, and sports.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Career Services:
Guidance and support for career planning and job hunting.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Aberdeen can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Sports:
Participation in various sports teams and leagues.Societies and Clubs:
Joining student-led clubs and societies based on interests.Events and Activities:
Attending social events, concerts, and cultural performances.Student Union:
Engaging with the student union for representation and advocacy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.Global Reputation:
It holds a strong international reputation, attracting students from around the world.Beautiful Campus:
The university is situated on a picturesque campus with historic buildings and modern facilities.Vibrant City:
Aberdeen offers a lively city environment with a rich cultural scene.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Academic Programs:
The University of Aberdeen offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Degrees:
Bachelor's degrees in various disciplines, including Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Law.Postgraduate Taught Degrees:
Master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas in specialized fields.Postgraduate Research Degrees:
PhD programs and research opportunities in various research areas.Online Learning:
Flexible online programs for students who prefer distance learning.Other:
The university is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area. It is also a member of the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.Key Reasons to Study There:
The context mentions some advantages, but it does not explicitly highlight the main reasons to study at the University of Aberdeen.I hope this is helpful.