Polar and Alpine Change

at University of Sheffield

You'll complete 180 compulsory credits of study, comprising four modules taken over one year full-time.

You'll carry out a year-long research project where you'll undertake original and independent research in your chosen field. While you develop and execute your project, we'll give you close supervision. You'll be a member of the department's vibrant research community – our Ice and Climate Research group – and you'll have the opportunity to present your findings to the group.

During the first semester, modules will help you develop your research ideas and produce a formal project proposal. You'll also have the chance to explore research approaches and develop your analytical and research communication skills.

Core modules:
 

• Research Design in Analysis of Environmental Systems

• Current Issues in Polar and Alpine Science

• Polar and Alpine Change Field Course

• Polar and Alpine Change Research Project

You’ll need a minimum of a good 2:1 honours degree showing first-class potential in relevant subject areas, including (but not restricted to) physical geography, environmental/earth/ocean sciences, geology, physics and natural science. You will also need evidence of engagement with and/or aptitude in geoscientific research through a personal statement and research document (e.g. undergraduate dissertation report).

Entry requirements for international students
 

• Overall IELTS score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component, or equivalent.

• Home: £9,300 per year

• Overseas: £23,250 per year

This course provides an exceptional level of research training and experience. These kinds of skills are why our graduates are successful in both further study at PhD level or a research-centred career.

Our graduates have gone on to secure competitive PhD positions at research-intensive UK institutions that specialise in cold-regions research, as well as institutions further afield, including Norway and Sweden. Other graduates have gone on to become environmental professionals.

Most applicants are interested in a research career. After your masters you might pursue further study at PhD and then an academic position where you can go on to push the frontiers of knowledge. We'll help you prepare for a research career while you study with us. For example, we provide guidance on applying for a PhD and you'll receive support from a tutor as well as guidance from the department's Ice and Climate Research group.