Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security at UNU-EHS and the University of Bonn, Germany – 2027 Master’s Programme with DAAD EPOS Scholarship Opportunities

The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security is an international postgraduate programme offered by the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) and the Department of Geography at the University of Bonn in Germany. The programme provides an interdisciplinary education for graduates interested in understanding environmental risks, climate change, natural hazards, disaster management, sustainable development, and human security. Applications for the October 2027 intake are scheduled to close on 31 October 2026, making this an important opportunity for eligible candidates seeking advanced training in environmental risk management and human security.

Located in Bonn, Germany, this two-year Master of Science programme combines academic research, scientific methods, practical experience, and international collaboration. It is designed to help students understand how environmental changes and natural hazards affect societies, livelihoods, development, and human well-being, particularly in developing countries and the Global South.

The programme is offered jointly by two internationally recognised institutions: the University of Bonn and the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security. Students benefit from the combined expertise of university academics and researchers working on environmental risks, sustainable development, and human security.

In addition to the academic programme, eligible applicants from developing countries may be considered for scholarships under the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Development-Related Postgraduate Courses, commonly known as the DAAD EPOS scholarship scheme. This funding opportunity is particularly relevant to qualified professionals who intend to apply their postgraduate education to development-related work after graduation.

Overview of the Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security

The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security focuses on the relationship between environmental change, geographical processes, societal vulnerability, and human security. It equips students with the theoretical knowledge, methodological skills, and practical tools needed to investigate environmental risks and develop appropriate responses.

Environmental hazards such as floods, droughts, landslides, and other natural disasters can have far-reaching consequences for communities, economies, infrastructure, food systems, and public health. Climate change can intensify existing vulnerabilities, while rapid urbanisation, unsustainable land use, and unequal access to resources may increase the exposure of particular populations to environmental threats.

Understanding these challenges requires more than knowledge of the physical environment. It also requires an understanding of social structures, political and economic conditions, development processes, and the relationships between human activities and natural systems.

This is the central focus of the master’s programme. Students examine how environmental risks emerge, why certain communities are more vulnerable than others, and how scientific evidence can inform policies and practical interventions.

The programme also explores the concepts of vulnerability, resilience, and adaptation. These concepts help explain why communities experience environmental hazards differently, how they respond to disruption, and what measures can strengthen their ability to prepare for and recover from adverse events.

Since its launch in October 2013, the programme has welcomed 279 students from 46 different countries, demonstrating its international reach and multidisciplinary character.

Key Programme Details

• Programme name: Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security
• Host institutions: United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) and the University of Bonn
• Degree level: Master of Science (MSc)
• Programme duration: Two years
• Location: Bonn, Germany
• Next intake: October 2027
• Application period: 31 July to 31 October 2026, subject to confirmation by the programme
• Application deadline: 31 October 2026
• Academic structure: 12 modules, a compulsory internship, and a master’s thesis
• Minimum internship duration: Eight weeks
• Language of instruction: English
• Scholarship opportunity: DAAD EPOS funding for eligible applicants from developing countries
• Programme contact: master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu

Applicants should consult the official programme website and application instructions for confirmation of current dates, funding arrangements, and any updates to the application process.

About UNU-EHS and the University of Bonn

The United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security is a research and education institution that examines the risks associated with environmental change and their implications for human security. Its work addresses issues such as climate-related hazards, disaster risk reduction, vulnerability, resilience, and sustainable development.

The Department of Geography at the University of Bonn contributes geographical research and teaching expertise, including the study of physical landscapes, human-environment relationships, and spatial patterns of social and environmental change.

Through this joint programme, students gain access to an academic environment that connects theoretical geographical knowledge with applied research and practical questions affecting communities worldwide.

The collaboration is particularly valuable for students interested in understanding environmental problems from multiple perspectives. Rather than treating natural hazards as isolated physical events, the programme considers how environmental processes interact with social vulnerability, development priorities, and institutional responses.

Students can also benefit from the institutions’ connections with international organisations, research initiatives, and practitioners working in relevant fields.

Objectives of the Master’s Programme

The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security has several core objectives.

1. Develop advanced knowledge of environmental risks and human security

Students develop a detailed understanding of the theoretical and methodological foundations of environmental risk research. They learn how environmental hazards emerge, how risks are distributed geographically, and how these risks affect people and communities.

2. Strengthen practical research and analytical skills

The programme combines academic instruction with research methods and applied learning. Students explore approaches to collecting, analysing, and interpreting information about environmental and social systems.

These competencies can be useful in risk assessments, environmental research, policy analysis, disaster preparedness, and development planning.

3. Examine challenges affecting developing countries and the Global South

The programme places particular emphasis on developing countries and the Global South, where environmental hazards may intersect with poverty, infrastructure deficits, unequal access to resources, and development challenges.

Students are encouraged to understand how environmental risks affect different populations and how interventions can be designed to respond to local conditions.

4. Encourage interdisciplinary and intercultural learning

Environmental risks cannot be adequately understood through a single academic discipline. The programme brings together geographical, environmental, social, and methodological perspectives.

Its international learning environment also encourages students to exchange experiences and approaches with peers from different cultural, educational, and professional backgrounds.

5. Connect students with research and international organisations

Students have opportunities to engage with ongoing research activities at the participating institutions. The programme also provides exposure to international organisations and other institutions working on disaster risk reduction, humanitarian assistance, climate change, and sustainable development.

Areas of Specialisation and Research

The programme covers a broad range of subjects related to environmental change, geographical processes, human security, and development.

Key areas of expertise include:

• Vulnerability assessment: Examining the factors that make individuals, communities, and regions more susceptible to environmental hazards.
• Ecosystem services: Understanding the benefits people obtain from ecosystems and the consequences of environmental degradation.
• Sustainable development: Exploring approaches to development that consider environmental protection, social well-being, and long-term resilience.
• Disaster management: Studying how disasters can be anticipated, prepared for, managed, and addressed during recovery.
• Climate change adaptation: Investigating strategies that help communities and institutions respond to the effects of a changing climate.
• Human-nature relationships: Examining the interactions between human societies and their physical environments.
• Science and technology studies: Understanding the role of scientific knowledge and technological systems in environmental decision-making.
• Development geography: Analysing the spatial dimensions of development, inequality, and social change.
• Geomorphology: Studying landforms and the physical processes that shape the Earth’s surface.
• Socio-hydrology: Investigating interactions between human societies and water systems.
• Future studies: Exploring potential future developments and approaches to anticipating emerging risks.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing: Using spatial data and Earth observation technologies to investigate environmental conditions and geographical patterns.

These areas provide students with a foundation for examining environmental risks through both scientific and societal perspectives.

Programme Structure and Duration

The master’s programme lasts two years and consists of 12 modules, followed by the completion of a compulsory internship and an independent master’s thesis.

The first three semesters are dedicated to teaching and coursework, during which students develop the conceptual understanding and technical skills needed for more advanced research and practical work.

The programme then incorporates professional or research-related experience through an internship lasting at least eight weeks. Students must also complete a master’s thesis, allowing them to investigate a topic related to their academic interests and the programme’s research areas.

Main components of the programme

1. Academic coursework

Ten of the programme’s 12 modules are taught during the first three semesters. These modules introduce students to the main theories, research approaches, and practical methods used in environmental risk and human security studies.

2. Research methods and analytical training

Students develop skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods, geographical analysis, and relevant technical approaches. Depending on their coursework and research interests, these skills may include working with GIS, remote sensing, and other methods for investigating environmental and social processes.

3. Compulsory internship

An internship of at least eight weeks is a mandatory part of the programme. It provides an opportunity to gain practical experience in a relevant professional or research setting.

Potentially relevant settings may include environmental research institutions, development organisations, disaster risk reduction initiatives, and other organisations working in related fields. Specific internship placements and arrangements should be confirmed with the programme.

4. Master’s thesis

Students independently undertake a master’s thesis that allows them to investigate a research question connected to environmental risks, human security, or a related field.

The thesis provides an opportunity to apply the research methods learned during the programme, engage with relevant academic literature, and contribute to the understanding of a particular issue.

Applicants should note that the programme’s stated structure includes both the compulsory internship and independent thesis work. They should consult the official curriculum for the detailed semester-by-semester schedule and current credit requirements.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Requirements

The programme is intended for graduates who have an appropriate academic background, a strong interest in environmental risks and human security, and the motivation to study in an interdisciplinary and international environment.

Admission is subject to the programme’s academic and language requirements. Applicants should assess their transcripts carefully before submitting an application.

1. Educational qualifications

Applicants must hold a first higher education qualification, such as a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, in Geography or a related or relevant academic field.

The programme evaluates the applicant’s overall academic background rather than relying exclusively on the title of the degree.

Applicants from related disciplines must demonstrate that the courses they have completed are relevant to the programme’s core subject areas.

2. Relevant academic coursework

The majority of the courses reflected in the applicant’s academic transcripts must relate to three principal areas:

Human Geography and Social Sciences

This area focuses on spatial patterns, society, development, and the relationship between human activities and geographical conditions.

Relevant coursework may include subjects that examine social structures, development processes, spatial inequalities, and the interaction between people and their environments.

Scientific methodology and empirical research methods

Applicants should have an academic foundation in research methodology and empirical investigation.

This requirement is relevant because students must be able to understand research designs, evaluate evidence, and undertake independent academic work.

Physical Geography, Geosciences, and Environmental Sciences

This area focuses on physical environmental processes and Earth system science.

Relevant subjects may cover the natural environment, environmental change, landforms, climate-related processes, and other scientific approaches to understanding environmental systems.

The programme considers the balance of these subject areas when assessing academic suitability. Applicants should therefore review their transcripts to determine whether their previous studies provide sufficient preparation.

3. Applicants from related disciplines

Graduates from related academic fields may be eligible if their educational background aligns strongly with the programme’s subject areas.

However, the programme specifically states that it is not intended for graduates in engineering-related subjects.

Applicants with degrees in International Relations or similar disciplines cannot be considered unless their academic profile relates strongly to environmental risks.

This distinction is important for prospective applicants whose qualifications focus mainly on politics, diplomacy, economics, or international affairs. An interest in climate change or sustainable development alone may not establish eligibility if the required geographical, environmental, and methodological coursework is absent.

Applicants with interdisciplinary degrees should assess the actual courses on their transcripts rather than assuming that the general title of their degree will determine eligibility.

4. Motivation and academic interests

Applicants must demonstrate a strong motivation to contribute to the study and management of risks associated with environmental change and human security.

They should be prepared to learn in a multicultural and interdisciplinary academic environment.

A competitive application should explain why the applicant wishes to study this particular programme, which environmental or human security challenges they hope to investigate, and how the degree fits into their longer-term academic or professional objectives.

5. PhD students and PhD holders

The programme states that PhD students and individuals who already hold a PhD cannot be considered for admission.

Applicants who are currently pursuing a PhD or have completed one should therefore not treat this master’s programme as an eligible option.

6. English language proficiency

Applicants must provide evidence of English language proficiency unless they qualify for the stated exemption.

The exemption applies to native speakers from the following countries:

• Australia
• Canada
• Republic of Ireland
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom
• United States

Studying in an English-taught programme is not, by itself, sufficient proof of English proficiency under the stated requirements.

Applicants who do not qualify for the exemption must submit an accepted English language certificate meeting the relevant minimum score.

Accepted English Language Tests and Minimum Scores

The programme accepts the following English language proficiency qualifications and minimum scores:

English language test	Minimum requirement
TOEFL paper-based	550
TOEFL iBT	79
TOEFL computer-based	213
IELTS	6.5
Cambridge Advanced English (CAE)	B2 or higher
Cambridge Proficiency English (CPE)	Accepted
telc	B2–C1
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic)	67
Duolingo English Test	120

German candidates who have acquired their English language skills through the specified Leistungskurs Abiturprogramme, involving five weekly teaching hours (SWS), may provide documentation of completion as an alternative to the listed certificates.

Applicants should verify the accepted documentation and any applicable test validity requirements before submitting their applications.

Required Documents for the Application

Applicants must submit a complete application package containing the documents specified by the programme. The standard application documents must be submitted together as a single PDF file, except for the academic writing sample, which must be provided separately.

The combined application package must not exceed 8 MB.

All documents must be submitted in English unless the programme explicitly permits another language. Documents issued in other languages must be accompanied by certified translations where required.

Standard application documents

1. Completed online application

Applicants must first complete the programme’s online application form. A confirmation email will be sent after submission.

The application confirmation must be signed and dated as instructed, scanned, and included in the application package.

2. Motivation letter

The motivation letter must be between one and two pages long and must be dated.

It should explain the applicant’s suitability for the programme, relevant academic and professional qualifications, knowledge of the curriculum, scientific interests, and future career plans.

Applicants should also explain how the programme will contribute to their development and help them achieve their objectives.

Candidates currently enrolled in another postgraduate programme must explain why they wish to change programmes.

3. Recent CV in Europass format

Applicants must submit a recent curriculum vitae prepared using the Europass format.

The CV must:

• Be organised in reverse chronological order.
• Be no longer than three pages.
• Be dated.
• Present educational and professional experience accurately.
• Ensure that dates correspond precisely with the supporting references and certificates submitted.

4. Academic degree certificates

Applicants must provide copies of their bachelor’s degree certificate or equivalent qualification. A master’s degree certificate should also be included if available.

Certificates must be in German or English. Certified translations are required where applicable.

Applicants who have not yet graduated should consult the programme’s FAQs for instructions on submitting documents relating to their current academic status.

5. Academic transcripts

Applicants must submit transcripts for their bachelor’s degree and any master’s degree completed or available.

The transcripts must include a current and identifiable overall average grade and an overview of the applicable grading system, except for applicants from the German education system.

Academic credit from other relevant studies, including exchange semesters and summer schools, should also be included where applicable.

6. English language proficiency certificate

Applicants must provide an accepted English language test result unless they qualify for the specified native-speaker exemption.

7. Academic references (optional but recommended)

Applicants may include up to two references from former university lecturers.

References must be recent, dated, stamped, signed, and presented on official letterhead. Documents in languages other than German or English require certified translations.

8. Passport copy

Applicants must provide a copy of the passport page displaying their name and personal information.

9. Other relevant professional references (optional)

Applicants may include up to three additional references relating to relevant internships, previous employment, training, or volunteering experience.

School certificates should not be included as part of this section.

10. APS certificate for applicants from China, India, or Viet Nam

Applicants from China, India, and Viet Nam must submit a scanned copy of the relevant APS certificate, following the requirements applicable to their country.

Candidates should consult the official programme instructions for the appropriate APS documentation.

Additional Documents Required for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship

Applicants seeking consideration for a DAAD EPOS scholarship must submit additional documents alongside the standard application package.

These requirements are particularly important because admission to the master’s programme and selection for scholarship funding are separate decisions.

The required additional documents include:

1. DAAD EPOS checklist

The checklist must be signed and dated on page two, including the location, date, name, and signature.

The DAAD requires handwritten signatures. Digitally inserted signatures are not accepted for this document.

2. DAAD application form

Applicants must complete the DAAD application form electronically rather than filling it in by hand.

The form must be dated and must list all EPOS programmes for which the applicant is applying, as instructed on page two.

3. Scholarship motivation letter

The scholarship motivation letter must be between one and two pages long and must be dated.

It may build on the standard programme motivation letter, but it must also address the specific DAAD EPOS scholarship requirements.

4. Professional reference from the current employer

Applicants must provide a recent professional reference from their employer, supervisor, or human resources department.

The document must be dated, stamped, signed, and presented on official letterhead. It must be in German or English, or accompanied by a certified translation where required.

A work certificate may substitute for this reference if it meets the programme’s stated requirements.

5. Work certificates

Applicants must submit documentation demonstrating relevant postgraduate professional work experience.

The work certificates must:

• Document relevant professional experience gained after graduation from the bachelor’s degree.
• State the exact employment period using the required date format, day, month, and year.
• Be issued by an authorised person.
• Be dated, stamped, and signed.
• Be presented on official letterhead.
• Demonstrate at least two years of documented relevant work experience by the application deadline.

Experience gained after the application deadline cannot be counted toward the minimum two-year requirement.

6. Separate academic writing sample

DAAD EPOS applicants and other applicants must submit the required academic writing sample as a separate PDF file. It may be sent in a separate email if necessary.

The writing sample must be in English, include a declaration of authenticity, and follow the programme’s specific instructions.

Academic Writing Sample: Requirements for the 2027 Intake

One of the important components of the application is an original academic essay designed to assess the applicant’s research interests, academic experience, and ability to identify a relevant research gap.

For the 2027 intake, applicants must answer the following question:

How has your own academic or professional experience influenced the areas of focus you plan to pursue in your studies?

The essay must address three main areas:

1. The applicant’s own academic or professional experiences.
2. How those experiences could inform the applicant’s proposed master’s thesis.
3. Why the proposed perspective could help address an existing research gap.

Applicants are encouraged to be specific when discussing their experiences. They may refer to research methods, findings, problems encountered, lessons learned, or gaps identified through previous academic or professional work.

The essay must also identify a potential thesis topic that is relevant to the programme and allows the applicant to draw on their experience. The proposed topic is not binding; successful applicants will not necessarily be required to pursue that exact research question after admission.

Academic writing sample format

The writing sample must follow these requirements:

• Language: English.
• Maximum length: 1,000 words, excluding references.
• Style: Academic essay.
• References: Up to 10 relevant sources, such as journal articles, books, and recognised policy reports.
• Referencing style: APA.
• Originality: The essay must be written by the applicant.
• Declaration: The required statement must appear at the bottom of the essay.

The programme explicitly instructs applicants to include the following declaration:

“I confirm to have written the essay myself, without the use of AI”

The programme may conduct plagiarism and AI checks. Applicants must therefore follow the stated authorship requirement and prepare the essay in accordance with the institution’s instructions.

A strong essay should establish a clear connection between the applicant’s previous experiences, the research question they hope to explore, and the wider academic or practical significance of the proposed research.

DAAD EPOS Scholarship: Funding Opportunities for Developing-Country Applicants

The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security is part of the selected group of international postgraduate programmes supported through the DAAD EPOS funding scheme.

DAAD EPOS provides scholarship opportunities for qualified professionals from eligible developing countries who wish to undertake development-related postgraduate studies in Germany.

A number of fully funded scholarships may be offered to eligible candidates through this scheme. However, the availability of funding and the number of awards depend on the relevant scholarship call and selection process.

Applicants should understand that the scholarship is not automatically awarded to everyone admitted to the master’s programme. Candidates must meet the additional EPOS eligibility requirements and submit the necessary scholarship documents to be considered.

Who is eligible for the DAAD EPOS scholarship?

In addition to meeting the master’s programme’s academic admission requirements, applicants seeking EPOS funding must satisfy the following conditions.

1. Citizenship or country eligibility

Applicants must come from a developing country included on the DAAD’s current list of eligible countries.

Not every country is necessarily eligible under the scheme. Prospective applicants should check the official DAAD list before applying.

2. At least two years of relevant work experience

Applicants must have accumulated at least two years of relevant professional experience after graduating from their bachelor’s degree by the time of application.

The programme indicates that qualifying experience may be gained through work with a non-governmental organisation, government organisation, or private-sector employer.

Applicants must provide supporting documentation establishing the duration and relevance of their employment. Work undertaken after the application deadline cannot be used to meet the two-year minimum.

3. Graduation within the permitted period

Applicants must have completed their last academic degree no more than six years before the time of application.

Candidates should check their graduation dates carefully to establish whether they meet this requirement.

4. No previous master’s degree in a similar field

Applicants must not have completed another master’s degree in a similar field of study.

This requirement is intended to support candidates whose professional development would benefit from the proposed postgraduate qualification.

5. Commitment to development-related professional work

Applicants must intend to pursue a career as a practitioner in a development-related field after completing the programme.

The scheme is designed for professionals who plan to apply their education in practical development work rather than primarily pursuing an academic career or undertaking a PhD.

Applicants should explain how the degree would contribute to their professional ambitions and how their future work could benefit their communities, institutions, or wider development priorities.

6. Commitment to the programme

Successful candidates must be prepared to commit fully to the joint master’s programme if they receive admission and a DAAD EPOS scholarship.

Applicants should therefore consider the programme’s duration, academic requirements, internship, and thesis obligations before applying.

What does the scholarship cover?

The programme states that a number of fully funded scholarships may be available through the DAAD EPOS scheme. However, the specific funding arrangements and benefits must be confirmed in the current DAAD scholarship call.

Applicants should consult the official DAAD information to verify the applicable scholarship benefits, financial allowances, eligibility rules, and any conditions attached to the award.

The programme information provided for this intake does not specify a guaranteed funding package or individual allowance amounts. Applicants should not assume that admission alone guarantees financial support.

How does the scholarship selection work?

The scholarship selection process for shortlisted candidates is scheduled to take place between February and April each year.

Candidates who satisfy the eligibility requirements must submit the additional scholarship documents alongside their programme application.

Admission to the master’s programme does not guarantee a DAAD EPOS scholarship. Applicants who are admitted but do not receive EPOS funding may explore other available sources of financial support in Germany.

The programme encourages candidates who do not meet EPOS requirements but need financial assistance to investigate alternative funding opportunities and apply early.

How to Apply for the Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security

Applications for the October 2027 intake are scheduled to be accepted between 31 July and 31 October 2026, subject to confirmation by the programme.

Applicants must follow the specified application process carefully. Incomplete applications, late submissions, and paper applications sent by post will not be considered.

Step 1: Review the official programme information

Before beginning the application, read the programme requirements, application instructions, FAQs, and scholarship information thoroughly.

Check that your academic background meets the requirements for geography, social sciences, research methodology, and environmental sciences.

If you are considering a DAAD EPOS scholarship, review the separate scholarship eligibility criteria and confirm that your country and professional background qualify.

Step 2: Complete the online application form

Submit the official online application form and follow the instructions for downloading or preparing the application confirmation.

The confirmation must be signed and dated as instructed, scanned, and included in the application package.

Step 3: Prepare the motivation letter and CV

Write a motivation letter of one to two pages explaining your suitability for the programme, academic interests, and career objectives.

Prepare a recent Europass CV of no more than three pages. Ensure that your education, employment history, and supporting documents are consistent.

DAAD EPOS applicants should also prepare a separate scholarship motivation letter that addresses the development-related purpose of their proposed studies.

Step 4: Gather your academic and supporting documents

Collect the required degree certificates, transcripts, English language proficiency evidence, passport copy, and any other applicable documents.

Arrange any certified translations that may be necessary.

If you are applying for EPOS funding, obtain the required professional reference and work certificates early enough to verify that the documents meet the formal requirements.

Step 5: Prepare the academic writing sample

Write the original academic essay addressing the question specified for the 2027 intake.

Ensure that the essay is no longer than 1,000 words, excluding references, follows APA referencing style, contains no more than 10 references, and includes the required declaration of authenticity.

Save the writing sample as a separate PDF file. Do not assume that it can replace any of the documents required in the main application package.

Step 6: Combine and arrange the main application documents

Combine the standard application documents into a single PDF package, following the exact order specified by the programme.

The main application package must not exceed 8 MB.

The academic writing sample must be submitted separately, including in a separate email if necessary.

All documents must be submitted as scans in PDF format. Smartphone pictures converted into PDFs will not be accepted.

Applicants should use suitable PDF software to combine, arrange, and compress their documents while maintaining legibility.

Step 7: Name the application file correctly

The combined application document must be named using the following format:

[Your last name.Your first name].pdf

Check the file name, document order, readability, and file size before submission.

Step 8: Email the application package

Send the completed application documents to the official programme email address:

master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu

Include the separate academic writing sample as instructed. If the sample must be sent in a separate email, ensure that it is clearly identifiable and associated with your application.

Applicants should retain a copy of the submitted documents and any email confirmation for their records.

Step 9: Confirm the scholarship requirements if applying for DAAD EPOS

EPOS applicants must also include the required DAAD checklist, application form, scholarship motivation letter, professional reference, and work certificates.

Ensure that all signatures, dates, stamps, and official letterheads comply with the relevant instructions.

The programme advises applicants to read the DAAD’s official information thoroughly before submitting scholarship documents.

Important Dates and Application Deadline

The following dates are relevant to applicants planning to join the Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security in 2027.

Event	Date or period
Application period opens	31 July 2026
Application deadline	31 October 2026
Expected programme start	October 2027
DAAD EPOS scholarship selection for shortlisted candidates	February–April each year

The programme’s stated application period is subject to confirmation. Applicants should check the official website for any updates before submitting their applications.

Application deadline: 31 October 2026.

Prospective students should begin preparing their documents well in advance, particularly their academic writing sample, official transcripts, references, and employment certificates where applicable.

Because the application requires a specific document order and separate submission of the academic writing sample, applicants should allow enough time to review their materials before the deadline.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Graduates of the Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security may pursue opportunities across research, environmental management, development policy, disaster preparedness, humanitarian assistance, and related sectors.

The programme’s interdisciplinary structure is intended to prepare students for work involving the analysis and management of environmental risks and their implications for people and communities.

Depending on their interests and professional experience, graduates may explore opportunities in the following areas.

Environmental risk assessment and management: Graduates may contribute to identifying environmental threats, assessing vulnerability, and developing strategies to reduce exposure to hazards.

Disaster risk reduction and preparedness: The programme’s focus on disaster management can be relevant to organisations working to strengthen preparedness, improve early warning systems, and reduce the impact of disasters.

Climate change adaptation: Graduates may contribute to research, planning, and policy initiatives designed to help communities and institutions respond to climate-related challenges.

Humanitarian assistance and international development: Knowledge of vulnerability, resilience, and environmental change can be valuable in development and humanitarian programmes addressing the needs of at-risk populations.

Research and policy analysis: Graduates may pursue work with academic and non-academic research institutions, policy organisations, and public agencies investigating environmental and social challenges.

Spatial planning and geospatial analysis: Skills related to GIS, remote sensing, and geographical research may be relevant to spatial planning, environmental monitoring, and the analysis of geographical data.

International organisations and government agencies: The programme highlights its relevance to organisations involved in disaster risk reduction, preparedness, humanitarian aid, climate change research, food security, and development.

Other potential employers include private companies, corporations, and organisations involved in environmental research and sustainable development.

Career outcomes will depend on individual qualifications, experience, professional interests, and available opportunities. The master’s degree provides relevant training but does not guarantee employment or a particular career position.

Tips for Preparing a Strong Application

Applicants can improve the quality of their submissions by addressing the programme’s requirements carefully and presenting a clear connection between their previous education, research interests, and future plans.

• Check academic eligibility first. Review the courses listed on your transcripts to establish whether your academic background matches the required subject areas.
• Demonstrate a clear research interest. Explain which environmental risk or human security issue you hope to investigate and why it matters.
• Write a programme-specific motivation letter. Show that you understand the curriculum, research areas, internship requirement, and thesis component.
• Prepare the academic essay early. The writing sample has a specific question, word limit, referencing style, and authorship declaration.
• Verify English language requirements. Do not assume that previous study in English automatically qualifies you for an exemption.
• Check all supporting documents. Ensure that dates, names, grades, signatures, stamps, and translations are consistent.
• Apply for EPOS funding only if you meet the additional requirements. Pay particular attention to eligible-country status, the two-year work experience requirement, and the six-year graduation limit.
• Follow the file submission rules. Keep the main PDF package within the 8 MB limit and submit the academic writing sample separately.
• Submit before the deadline. Allow enough time to resolve document issues and confirm that your application has been sent correctly.

Applicants with questions that are not answered in the programme information or FAQs can contact the programme team directly at master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu.

The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security at UNU-EHS and the University of Bonn offers an interdisciplinary postgraduate education for graduates seeking to understand environmental risks, climate change, human vulnerability, disaster management, and sustainable development. Through academic coursework, research training, a compulsory internship, and a master’s thesis, the programme prepares students to examine environmental challenges and contribute to practical responses.

The availability of DAAD EPOS scholarship opportunities makes the programme particularly relevant to eligible professionals from developing countries who have at least two years of relevant postgraduate work experience and intend to pursue development-related careers.

Prospective applicants should carefully review the academic admission requirements, English language criteria, writing sample instructions, and scholarship conditions before applying.

The application deadline for the October 2027 intake is 31 October 2026, subject to confirmation by the programme. Eligible candidates are encouraged to prepare their documents early and follow the official application instructions to ensure their submissions meet all requirements.

Apply for the Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security

Visit the official programme website to access the online application form, programme brochure, detailed requirements, FAQs, and scholarship information.

 

Official programme and application information

Discover more global opportunities at Opportunities for youth here