The United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) and the University of Bonn are inviting applications for the Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security, an interdisciplinary two-year master’s programme based in Bonn, Germany. The programme offers an opportunity for students interested in environmental risks, climate change, disaster management, human security, sustainable development and related fields. A number of fully funded scholarships are available through the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) EPOS programme for eligible applicants from developing countries. The next programme intake will begin in October 2027, with applications listed as open from 31 July to 31 October 2026, subject to confirmation. The programme application deadline is 31 October 2026. About the Joint MSc Programme The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security is delivered jointly by the Department of Geography at the University of Bonn and the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security. The two-year programme provides students with advanced theoretical knowledge, methodological skills and practical experience needed to understand and address environmental risks and human security challenges. The programme takes an interdisciplinary approach to examining environmental risks, natural hazards, vulnerability, resilience, adaptation and human-nature relationships. A particular emphasis is placed on developing countries and the Global South, making the programme relevant to students who intend to work on environmental and development challenges in vulnerable communities and regions. Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security: Areas of Study Students can develop expertise across a broad range of subjects connected to environmental risks and human security. Key areas include: Vulnerability assessment Ecosystem services Sustainable development Disaster management Climate change adaptation Human-nature relationships Development geography Geomorphology Socio-hydrology Future studies GIS and remote sensing Science and technology studies The curriculum also covers geographical approaches to risk, vulnerability and resilience, development geography, Earth system science, qualitative and quantitative research methods, social-ecological systems, risk and technology, risk governance, forecasting, disaster risk reduction and humanitarian response. Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security: Programme Structure The MSc programme consists of 12 modules. Ten modules are taught during the first three semesters. Students then complete a compulsory internship followed by independent work on their master’s thesis. An internship of at least eight weeks is mandatory and provides students with an opportunity to gain practical experience and connect their academic learning with professional applications. The programme also provides opportunities to engage with ongoing research projects at both the University of Bonn and UNU-EHS. Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security: Who Can Apply? Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent first higher education qualification in Geography or another relevant academic field. The majority of courses completed in the applicant’s previous academic studies must relate to three broad areas: Human Geography and Social Sciences, particularly spatial patterns, society and development; Scientific methodology and empirical research methods; and Physical Geography, Geosciences and Environmental Sciences, particularly Earth System Science. The programme is not primarily intended for graduates of engineering-related disciplines. Graduates in International Relations or similar subjects may also be ineligible unless their academic profile has a strong connection to environmental risks. Applicants who already hold or are currently pursuing a PhD cannot be considered for the programme. Applicants are also expected to demonstrate strong motivation to contribute to human security and the management of risks associated with environmental change. English Language Requirements Applicants must provide evidence of English-language proficiency unless they are native speakers from Australia, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or the United States. Accepted qualifications and minimum scores include: TOEFL: 550 TOEFL iBT: 79 TOEFL CBT: 213 IELTS: 6.5 Cambridge CAE: at least B2 Cambridge CPE telc B2-C1 Pearson PTE Academic: 67 Duolingo English Test: 120 Studying previously in an English-taught programme does not automatically satisfy the English-language requirement. Fully Funded DAAD EPOS Scholarship The Joint MSc is part of the DAAD EPOS funding scheme, which supports selected development-related postgraduate programmes in Germany. A number of fully funded scholarships can be offered to eligible students from developing countries. To qualify for the DAAD EPOS scholarship, applicants must, in addition to meeting the general programme requirements: Be from an eligible developing country; Have at least two years of relevant professional experience after completing a Bachelor’s degree by the application deadline; Have obtained their most recent academic degree no more than six years before the application; Not already hold another Master’s degree in a similar field; Intend to pursue a development-related professional career after graduation; Be prepared to commit fully to the programme if selected. The EPOS scholarship is particularly aimed at candidates intending to apply their education as practitioners in development-related fields rather than primarily pursuing an academic career or PhD. Admission to the MSc programme does not automatically guarantee a DAAD EPOS scholarship. Scholarship selection takes place separately among shortlisted candidates. Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security: Required Application Documents Applicants must submit their application electronically as one PDF package not exceeding 8MB, with the documents arranged in the required order. The application generally includes: Online application confirmation Motivation letter Recent Europass CV Academic degree certificate(s) Academic transcript(s) Proof of English proficiency Academic references, where applicable Passport copy Other relevant references, where applicable APS certificate for applicants from China, India or Viet Nam, where required Applicants seeking DAAD EPOS funding must also provide additional scholarship documents, including the DAAD EPOS checklist, DAAD application form, scholarship motivation letter, professional reference and work certificates. A separate academic writing sample must also be submitted in English. Academic Writing Sample Applicants must prepare an academic essay addressing how their academic or professional experience has influenced the areas they plan to pursue during their studies. The essay should discuss their experiences, how those experiences could inform their potential thesis work and why that perspective could contribute to addressing a research gap. The writing sample must be an original text, use relevant scientific literature and follow APA referencing. It may contain up to 1,000 words excluding references. Applicants should carefully follow the programme’s instructions concerning originality and the declaration required at the end of the essay. Career Opportunities Graduates of the programme can pursue careers related to disaster risk reduction, climate change, humanitarian assistance, food security, spatial planning, international relations, research and environmental policy. The programme provides exposure to international organisations, government agencies, research institutions, non-governmental organisations and private-sector organisations working on environmental risks and human security. Its close connections with the UN system and international organisations can also provide valuable professional and networking opportunities. How to Apply Applications for the October 2027 intake are submitted online, followed by the submission of the required application documents by email. The stated application deadline is 31 October 2026, although the university notes that the application period is subject to confirmation. Prospective applicants should carefully review the official requirements, FAQs and DAAD EPOS conditions before submitting an application. The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security represents a strong opportunity for qualified graduates seeking advanced training in climate change, environmental risks, disaster management, human security and sustainable development in Germany. For eligible applicants from developing countries, the DAAD EPOS route provides the possibility of securing comprehensive financial support for postgraduate study. LEARN MORE & APPLY HERE Stay connected with Global South Opportunities for the latest scholarships, fellowships, internships, jobs, grants, and career opportunities. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel and be the first to discover new opportunities. Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities is not the organization offering this position. Applicants should verify all eligibility requirements and application instructions on the official platform before applying. JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW