Environmental Sciences, Policy and Management MESPOM
ObjectivesThis Erasmus Mundus Masters course aims to prepare future leaders to analyze and manage environmental issues in various social contexts. There is a growing need worldwide for such internationally trained specialists able to link advanced scientific knowledge to effective policy and management responses. MESPOM builds on more than 50 years of combined academic excellence in postgraduate environmental education of its four partners: the University of Manchester (focus on environmental sciences and pollution control), Lund University, Sweden (focus on environmental management in industry), Central European University (CEU), Hungary (focus on environmental policies) and the University of the Aegean, Greece (focus on ecosystems management). Successful graduates receive Master of Science degree from the four participating universities.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements: Applications are welcome from candidates with a good first degree (Bachelor or equivalent with minimum 3 years of university studies) in a subject related to environmental sciences, policy and management such as biology, geography or chemistry, engineering, management or economics. Candidates with other first degrees are also considered if they show commitment to environmental issues, usually through work experience. All candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English. Admission is based on the academic and intellectual excellence of applicants as well as their motivation and prior experience. Admission to MESPOM is highly competitive. A successful applicant has typically graduated with excellent grades from a good university and has some experience of voluntary or professional environmental work. She or he understands global environmental challenges and has a clear commitment to contribute to their resolution. See www.mespom.org for details.
Academic titleEnvironmental Sciences, Policy and Management MESPOM
Course descriptionCourse description
The two-year (120 ECTS credits) programme consists of three taught and one research semester. The first two semesters are delivered at CEU with contribution from Lund, Manchester and the Aegean. The mandatory courses during the first semester include Introduction to Environmental Sciences, Introduction to Environmental Policy and Thought and Introduction to Environmental Management. ore than 20 elective courses are offerred in the second semester, including, for example, Sustainable Energy Solutions, Environmental Impact Assessment, Environment and Producer Responsibility, Water Resource Management, GIS, Biodiversity and Conservation. A course on Ecosystems Management delivered jointly with the University of the Aegean involves a field trip to the Island of Lesvos in Greece.
During the third semester students choose whether to specialize in Environmental Sciences and Pollution Control at the University of Manchester, or in Preventive Environmental Strategies at Lund University. The fourth semester includes independent thesis research which can be hosted at any of the MESPOM Consortium partners.
Throughout the course, in addition to their academic work students develop research, communication and other professional skills, learn to orient themselves in European and worldwide networks of environmental institutions and elaborate career strategies. Many students combine thesis work with internships in international organizations, governments, NGOs or the private sector.