Geography, Environment and Development Studies

Program Overview

The MPhil/PhD programs in Geography, Environment and Development Studies at Birkbeck, University of London equip students with research skills and knowledge in various specializations, including geography, GISc, community studies, development studies, and childhood studies. Through research-led teaching, students work closely with expert supervisors and have access to excellent research facilities. Graduates pursue diverse careers in academia, research, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.

Program Outline

Geography, Environment and Development Studies MPhil/PhD Program at Birkbeck, University of London: A Comprehensive Extraction

Degree Overview:

The MPhil/PhD programs in Geography, Environment and Development Studies at Birkbeck aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge to conduct high-quality research and contribute original insights to the field. The program welcomes both recent graduates and mature students seeking to pursue their intellectual passion.

Outline:

This program offers specialization in various areas:

• Geography: Social and physical aspects of geography, focusing on socio-spatial inequality, coastal studies, food security, environmental change, and urban geography.
• Geographical Information Science (GISc): Spatial analysis, cartography, remote sensing, and geocomputation.
• Community, Youth and Voluntary Sector Studies: Theoretical and empirical research on community, youth, and voluntary sector practices and experiences.
• Development Studies: Theoretical and empirical research on development practices and experiences, focusing on ageing, childhood, gender, migration, NGOs, regional specializations, rights, social policy, and visual culture.
• International Childhood Studies: Theoretical and empirical research on childhood practices and experiences, including cultures of childhood, visual culture, governance, social identities, and histories of childhood.

Assessment:

Assessment methods may vary depending on the chosen specialization, but typically include:

• Dissertation: A substantial dissertation of 60,000 to 100,000 words showcasing original research and analysis.
• Examinations: Written or oral examinations may be required in some specializations.
• Presentations: Students may be required to present their research findings at seminars or conferences.
• Continuous assessment: Assignments, essays, or projects throughout the program may contribute to the final assessment.

Teaching:

The program emphasizes a research-led approach to teaching, with students working closely with supervisors who are experts in their field. Teaching methods include:

• Individual supervision: Regular meetings with supervisors for guidance and feedback on research progress.
• Seminars: Subject-specific seminars and research training modules.
• Guest lectures: Lectures by visiting scholars and experts.
• Workshops: Opportunities to develop research skills and engage in collaborative learning.

Careers:

Graduates of the program pursue diverse careers in academia, research, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Potential career paths include:

• Academic researcher: Conducting research and teaching at universities or research institutions.
• Policy analyst: Advising governments and organizations on policy issues related to the environment, development, or community engagement.
• NGO worker: Working for non-profit organizations on projects related to international development, social justice, or environmental sustainability.
• Consultant: Providing expertise in GIS, environmental assessment, or community development to businesses and organizations.
• Journalist: Reporting on environmental, social, or development issues.

Other:

• The program attracts students from diverse backgrounds with varied research interests, creating a dynamic and collaborative learning environment.
• Students have access to excellent research facilities, including computing labs, GIS labs, and field equipment.
• The program fosters a supportive research culture and provides training and support to students throughout their studies.
• Birkbeck's location in central London offers access to libraries, museums, and other resources, enhancing the research experience.

• Part-time home students: £2,539 per year
• Full-time home students: £4,786 per year
• Part-time international students: £7,525 per year
• Full-time international students: £14,885 per year
Students are charged a tuition fee in each year of their course. Tuition fees for students continuing on their course in following years may be subject to annual inflationary increases. Fees and finance PhD students resident in England can apply for government loans of over £26,000 to cover the cost of tuition fees, maintenance and other study-related costs. We offer a range of studentships and funding options to support your research.