University of Bristol - Arts and Humanities

MA Environmental Humanities

To address environmental challenges, we don't just need to understand the science behind how the world is changing. We also need to understand how the relationship with our environment is shaped by human behaviour, beliefs, values and structures. Studying how human interactions with the natural environment have changed over time, and how those interactions have been explored in culture, is essential to tackling contemporary environmental concerns.

This interdisciplinary master's balances the study of literature with work on visual culture, and our particular strength in environmental history. The programme offers you an international perspective, exploring interactions between environment, culture and history from across the world.

Completing this course will allow you to:

• Learn directly from our experts working in the world-leading Centre for Environmental Humanities and benefit from the Centre's growing international and community partnerships, including the Greenhouse Center for Environmental Humanities at the University of Stavanger in Norway, and the Environmental Humanities Center at VU Amsterdam.
• Design your own interdisciplinary pathway by combining compulsory units with a range of optional and open units across literature, history, philosophy, geography and many more.
• Explore real-world environmental challenges by working with our partners on real initiatives and solutions. You will have opportunities to engage with local organisations such as Bristol Green Capital Partnership, Black & Green Ambassadors, and the BBC Natural History unit, as well as with researchers at the Cabot Institute for the Environment.
• Benefit from innovative teaching methods, combining student-led discussions and presentations in seminars with collaborative assessments and the use of relevant digital tools.
• Develop vital communication and research skills in preparation to undertake large-scale research projects. The programme's innovative dissertation unit includes collaborative and practice-based options (eg designing an exhibition) that offer you opportunities for working with external partners.
• Gain relevant skills for a number of careers. Sustainability is increasingly important, and opportunities include research and education, heritage and conservation, media and communications, film and TV, and many more.
• Study in a city well known for its green agenda and successful creative and technical economy. Bristol is a former European green capital, and the University hosts strong connections with multiple cultural organisations and community groups working on environmental projects.