MSc Global Environment, Politics and Society in Edinburgh United Kingdom | The University of Edinburgh

The Global Environment, Politics and Society (GEPS) program provides an interdisciplinary approach to studying environmental challenges through social science perspectives. Learners enjoy significant flexibility in shaping their academic path, choosing from various methodological, disciplinary, and integrative options. The foundational curriculum integrates these key areas:

environmental policy studies
sociological perspectives on the environment
ethical philosophy
Additionally, participants often incorporate other social science disciplines into their studies, drawing courses from different departments across the university.

Addressing complex challenges like climate change, sustainability, and biodiversity demands comprehension of political, ethical, and social aspects of environmental problems and their solutions. This degree offers a practice-focused, social science examination of worldwide environmental issues. Applicants should be aware that while we emphasize social sciences broadly, extending beyond the specified disciplines, our curriculum doesn't concentrate on economics, business, or financial studies - areas well-covered by other excellent programs at the University of Edinburgh.

GEPS participants will acquire analytical skills and knowledge to explore critical questions including:

Can effective environmental agreements exist among sovereign nations?
Does nature hold value beyond human economic interests?
What motivates different actors to address environmental concerns?
What impacts result from environmental activism?
How can we define and achieve environmental justice?
Program participants may also engage with numerous climate and sustainability initiatives offered through the University's Social Responsibility and Sustainability Department and the new Earth Initiative.