Sustainable Rural Development

Master

In Aberdeen

Price on request

Description

  • Type

    Master

  • Location

    Aberdeen (Scotland)

  • Duration

    12 Months

The programme aims to develop a critical appreciation of the concept of sustainable development in the rural environment and an understanding of related social science theories. The curriculum also seeks to develop a knowledge and understanding of rural policy making and management approaches to promoting more sustainable rural environments and lifestyles.

Facilities

Location

Start date

Aberdeen (Aberdeen City)
See map
St. Mary'S Building, Old Aberdeen, AB24 3UF

Start date

On request

About this course

Candidates will normally have at least a 2:2 honours level degree in one of a wide variety of disciplines across natural or social sciences. Individuals with other equivalent qualifications or practical experience will be considered. Students are encouraged to apply from UK, Europe and overseas but they should be aware that the focus of the programme is geared towards UK and European approaches to sustainable development and is not appropriate for students wishing to study Third World development problems. Given the intensive format of the degree, motivation will be an important factor.

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Course programme

Syllabus

Teaching and project material is drawn from global, European and Scottish sources with a strong emphasis on examples drawn from staff research interests. Practical group project work and individual projects undertaken within rural areas in conjunction with rural agencies are important elements in the course.

You have the option of following courses accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This prepares you for entry to the Environmental Faculty of the Institution.

You will study the following subjects. Note the difference between the RICS and Non-RICS routes.

First Half Session:

  • Rural Governance & Policy
  • Rural & Environmental Economics
  • Rural & Environmental Law and Regulation
  • Environmental Concepts & Appraisal
  • Valuation/Land Use Management 1 (RICS only)

Second Half Session:

  • Research Methods
  • Contemporary Rural Issues (non-RICS students only)
  • Contemporary Environmental Issues
  • Project in Rural & Environmental Practice in Europe (European Field course)
  • Valuation/Land Use Management 2 (RICS optional)

On successful completion of these courses to the required standard you will be allowed to progress to the dissertation stage.

Assessment

The first semester focuses on the theoretical concepts relating to sustainable development with a mixture of exams and continuous assessment. In the second half of the programme the focus is more on applying knowledge and skills in applied projects and course-work. Project work includes individual and group exercises.

Teaching

The programme provides a diversity of teaching and learning situations and types of assessment that meet the needs of employers and prescribed academic standards. Each course will have reading lists which you are encouraged to pursue in your own time to further your understanding of taught material. In addition to these courses you are also encouraged to participate in various seminars and guest lectures where appropriate. As with all programmes it is up to you what you get out of them and we are here to facilitate your maximum potential and enjoyment. All courses involve lectures, tutorials, seminars and project work, although the relevant balance varies as you progress through the programme. The Programme includes a week-long residential field project in central or southern Europe, normally during the Easter vacation. In recent years visits have been made to Slovenia and Portugal.

Dedication

12 months, full-time.

Additional information

Career opportunities: Graduates have obtained a wide-range of significant positions in a diverse range of organisations. These include sustainable development initiatives, environmental education, environmental and planning consultancies, rural estates, rural and regional development agencies, research organisations, bodies such as Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Wildlife Trust, and RSPB, central and local government, non-governmental organisations, and international agencies. The course may also be used as a foundation for a PhD.

Sustainable Rural Development

Price on request