As a joint programme offered by the Department of Geography at the University of Bonn and the Institute for Environment and Human Security at the United Nations University, the course provides a unique combination of advanced conceptual and applied engagements within the field of environmental risks and human security in an international context.

This Joint Master’s is part of a selected group of international postgraduate degrees that benefits from the EPOS funding scheme offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

ELIGIBILITY:

The current call for applications and necessary application documents for the scholarship for an EPOS study program can be found on the  DAAD’s website.

Eligible candidates should fulfill the following requirements in addition to the general eligibility criteria for the Master’s programme:

Being a candidate from an eligible developing country (check the list on DAAD website);

Having accumulated at least two years of relevant work experience since graduation from the Bachelor’s by the time of application (e.g. with an NGO, GO, or the private sector);

Having graduated from the last academic degree no longer than 6 years ago by the time of application;

Having completed no other Master’s degree in a similar field of studies;

Aiming to pursue a career as a practitioner in the field of development following graduation from the Master’s programme (not in an academic area/not aiming to pursue a PhD);

Being ready to commit fully to the Joint Master’s degree in case it is accepted for the programme and a DAAD EPOS scholarship.

Students wishing to be considered for these scholarships need to attach the additionally required documents (DAAD application form, professional references, work certificates) (see Applications section) to their application package. Programme admission does not guarantee being awarded a DAAD EPOS scholarship.

The selection process for the EPOS funding among shortlisted candidates will happen between February and April each year.

Candidates that do not fulfill the EPOS requirements but wish to benefit from financial support during their studies are invited to apply individually and early to other available funding programmes in Germany. A list of available programmes can be found here.

Programme Requirements:

Applicants must possess a first higher education qualification (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in Geography or a related/relevant academic field. Out of all achieved academic performances (Bachelor’s, Master’s, additional coursework, etc.) the majority of attended courses (as reflected in your transcripts) must be related to the three following areas:

Human Geography and Social Sciences with a focus on spatial patterns, society, and development;

Science methodology and empirical research methods;

Physical Geography, Geosciences and Environmental Sciences with a focus on Earth System Science.

Note: The programme is not targeted at graduates in Engineering-related subjects. Likewise, graduates in International Relations or similar subjects cannot be considered unless their profile relates strongly to the field of environmental risks. PhD students or PhD holders cannot be considered.

A strong motivation to contribute to the area of human security and management of risks related to environmental change is a prerequisite to study in this Master’s Programme. Applicants should be highly motivated to learn in a multicultural and interdisciplinary environment.

All applicants need to provide proof of their English language proficiency, except for native speakers from countries specified hereafter: Australia, Canada, the Republic of Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the United States.

The Joint Master’s Programme has one intake every year. The next intake will start in October 2027. Applications are accepted during the application period from 31 July to 31 October 2026 (to be confirmed).

To apply, please:

Read the information below as well as the FAQs thoroughly.

Submit the online application form

BENEFIT:

A number of fully funded scholarships can be offered to students from developing countries through this scheme.