Core Taught Modules
ESC-40034 – An Introduction to Sustainable Technologies (15 credits)
This module is designed to provide students from diverse entry disciplines with an overview of key concepts, debates and processes with regard to clean and sustainable technologies, which will be covered in further detail in optional modules. In addition, module considers key process and issues involved in using resources and the effects both now and in the future.
You will introduce a broad range of subject matter across the field, preparing you to specialise in greater depth through optional modules and your research project. Topics include: energy security; power distribution and storage; renewable sources of energy and their exploitation for power generation; conventional and unconventional hydrocarbons; nuclear energy; geological, biological and ocean sequestration; climate change, greenhouse gases and the greenhouse effect; protecting and managing water and food resources; biodiversity and biosecurity.
PIR-40106 Dimensions of Environmental Politics (15 credits)
You will be introduced to the main facets of environmental politics, gaining an broad overview of key concepts, debates, processes and discourses in relation to the political dynamics of ‘The environment’. You will explore three key questions in environmental politics: How did ‘The environment’ come to be seen as a political question? How have political institutions responded to what have been called environmental problems? What are the challenges such problems individually or collectively pose for existing political structures, institutions, and practices, and the theoretical presumptions underlying them This module will provide you with a good general understanding across the field, should you wish to specialise in greater depth, for example, in your dissertation.
ESC-40030 Case Studies in Sustainability (15 credits)
The ability to assimilate data, work as a team and solve problems is fundamental to any career development. In this module, you will interact with others, to analyse and consider scientific, political, management and ethical issues relating to problems in the environmental sustainability and green technology sectors. Reviewing several case studies and scenarios, you will increase your awareness of issues relevant to the sustainability agenda, such as waste products from standard procedures. You will also build your confidence in assessing and evaluating complex and often conflicting information.
ESC-40048 Research and Business Skills, Project and Portfolio Management (15 credits)
This module responds to the need, identified by research funding bodies, to provide training in generic research skills at postgraduate level. It aims to provide a broad understanding of the context, methodologies and practice of scientific enquiry in research associated with the sustainability agenda, developing research and communication skills for academic and commercial environments. You will learn how to put together professional project planning documents, including a project scope and business plan incorporating a detailed implementation, resource allocation, and financial management. In doing so, you'll develop an appreciation of commercial factors, for example, assessing proposals for green initiatives against an organisation's business situation. Topics covered include: experimental design and data analysis for science and social science; project management; communication skills; public understanding of science; career management; intellectual property rights; and the role of ethics.
ESC-40029 Research Project (60 credits)
You will build your confidence and autonomy, developing your research and problem-solving skills by undertaking a research project based on real-world challenges in sustainability in collaboration with the University or an associated academic, private or public sector organisation, here in the UK or overseas. Research project opportunities vary year-on-year and topics may be proposed by our own researchers or partnering organisations and companies. We also encourage you to come up with your own project ideas on any relevant area of interest, provided it can be agreed with and supported by an experienced supervisor. You will write up your research project, communicating the background, context, methods, results and conclusions through the submission of a 15-20,000 word dissertation. Past research projects have focused on a diverse range of subjects, from nuclear energy development to community education.
