Gain expertise in sustainable development from the Natural Resources Institute with an MSc by Research in Natural Resources.
This research master's in natural resources is for graduates and professionals looking for greater knowledge and expertise in natural resources and sustainable development.
The MSc consists of a selection of taught courses (from our MSc Global Environmental Change and MSc Agriculture for Sustainable Development) plus an extended research project which enables you to focus on an aspect relevant to your interests.
The programme provides awareness of natural resources, their management and sustainable development. You'll also understand how to apply the principles of sustainable natural resource management to your own discipline.
Before you apply for this course please contact Dr Peter Burt ([email protected]) directly to discuss research topics of interest. They will guide you through the application process and support you to find a Supervisor.
How you will learn
Teaching
Two-thirds of this course (120 credits) is a research project that will help students develop significant expertise and research skills. Students also choose courses worth 60 credits from the Institute's master's-level portfolios that are relevant and/or required for the topic of the research project. The course is ideal for industry-based projects and has been a popular option for part-time students already in employment.
Class sizes
There are around 30 students on the MSc programmes in NRI. For specialist modules, our classes are often limited to about 6 students in lab sessions and 20 in lectures. This helps to create familiarity between students and staff and ensure a great learning experience. Because students choose different taught courses from a wide range of options, the class size is usually suitable in lectures and laboratory work.
Independent learning
The main assessment of this course is a research project. For this, much of your study time will be spent working independently.
There are also taught elements from other master's courses. Here, your independent study will include any reading, preparation and assessments required to complete these successfully.
Overall workload
If you are studying full-time, you should expect the workload to be similar to a full-time job. For part-time students (available to UK/EU only), this will reduce in proportion with the number of courses you are studying, but is normally half of the full-time equivalent.
Assessment
The taught modules (60 credits) are assessed through a mixture of examinations, assignments, presentations and group work.
The research project (120 credits) is assessed by a written thesis and a viva exam. This will involve an external examiner, an internal examiner and a panel chair, depending on the most appropriate method of measuring the learning outcomes.
Feedback summary
University policy is to give feedback on assignments within 15 working days of the coursework submission date. Examination results will be available within 28 days.
Dates and timetables
Each academic year runs from September to June.
Full teaching timetables are not usually available until term has started. For any queries, please call 020 8331 9000.

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