Social Science courses

About Msc(res) Polar And Alpine Change in University of Sheffield

Course description

This unique course prepares you for a research career in cold-regions science, notably within the disciplines of glaciology, glacial geomorphology, polar climatology/oceanography, environmental science, polar biogeochemical processes, or their intersections. We train graduates from a range of scientific disciplines.

The course operates at the cutting edge of climate science, as its key focus is to explore the expressions, mechanisms and impacts of rapid ongoing changes in our planet’s cold regions.

An integral part of the course is the Arctic/Alpine field course, which is usually in the summer towards the end of the academic year. The costs for this field course are not included in the tuition fee. You'll gain an in-depth knowledge of the location you visit. You'll also develop skills in relevant research approaches and techniques.

Course structure

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 to explore research approaches and develop your analytical and research communication skills.

Field class

The field class combines taught sessions with group research. Group work undertaken by students in previous years includes: meteorology, glacier hydrology, glacier hydrochemistry, ground penetrating radar studies of glacier structure and glacial geomorphology, and glacier reconstruction using geomorphological evidence and relative dating techniques. Recent field class locations have included Greenland and Svalbard.

Entry requirements

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).

English language requirements

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

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