Introduction
Overview
At a critical time in history, the MRes in Sustainable Futures presents an exciting opportunity to specialise in a field of research that tackles one of the most important questions facing society today – how human wellbeing can be maintained and enhanced into the future given rising populations, limited natural resources and a fragile environment.
This field, with its clear applied focus and strong strategic future-directed policy implications, has social sciences at its heart. On the programme, you will develop rigorous research skills whilst cultivating a good understanding of the economics, law or politics of sustainability.
The MRes has an emphasis on practical research training, studying ESRC-accredited research methods that encourage you to think in broad theoretical and interdisciplinary terms about challenging environmental issues. You will learn how to plan, research and write a sophisticated dissertation.
As well as presenting a thorough introduction to academic research, the MRes offers excellent preparation for working for environmental ministries, agencies, consultancies or NGOs, or other organisations working for environmental change. Some students choose to enter the legal profession, carrying with them a broader understanding of how the law operates in the context of sustainability and the environment.
The programme is one of five South West Doctoral Training Partnership interdisciplinary pathways delivered by world-leading researchers from the University of Bristol, University of Bath, University of the West of England and University of Exeter.
Course Structure
There are four core units and a selection of optional units, which can be taken at Bristol, Bath, UWE or Exeter. Please be aware that you may be required to travel to partner institutions for some collaborative teaching. Over the summer you will complete a masters-level research-based dissertation, individually supervised by a tutor.
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MRes in Sustainable Futures.
Careers
The MRes in Sustainable Futures offers useful preparation for a number of careers. The MRes also provides the academic basis and preparation for students choosing the 1+3 programme (with three years of doctoral training following completion of this interdisciplinary Masters degree).
This MRes is an ideal introduction to working for environmental ministries, agencies, consultancies or NGOs, or within government agencies or other organisations working for environmental change. Some students choose to enter the legal profession, carrying with them a broader understanding of how the law operates in the context of sustainability and the environment.
Entry criteria
An upper second-class honours degree in a relevant social sciences or law discipline (or international equivalent), and/or a master's qualification. Previous or professional experience is not required.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Application Deadline
The closing date for non-funded places is 1 July 2022.
The closing date for ESRC studentship applications will be in January 2022, exact date to be provided when available. For further details on applying for ESRC funding, please visit the SWDTP website.
Please visit the Law School fees and funding web page for more information.
Choose our MRes in Sustainable Futures. Embark on a research career. Be supervised by globally-renowned academics.
