Victoria University of Wellington

Master of Climate Change Science and Policy – MCCSP

The global threat of climate change is real and urgent. Gain insight into climate change challenges in science and policy-making with this multi-disciplinary degree.

Fight a Global Problem

Climate change is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges our world faces.

Globally we already see some of the consequences: an increase in extreme weather events, the loss of habitable land, and growing concerns about food security, species loss, and threats to biodiversity.

International agreements aim to keep global warming well below a 2-degree threshold to prevent even more repercussions. But deciding how we go about reducing our emissions—and how we adapt to changes that have already happened—requires scientists and policy-makers with a broad understanding of both physical sciences and human systems.

The 180-point Master of Climate Change Science and Policy will give you the necessary combination of policy and science knowledge to address the real-world problem of climate change. It’s a cross-disciplinary programme that combines taught courses with a research essay or placement with an external organisation.

Make an Impact

If you want to work in policy, iwi development, or NGO advocacy related to climate change, this programme will give you the skills and knowledge you need to make an impact. You’ll also have the choice of doing a practicum placement, where you can apply what you’ve learned to a real-life working environment.

Your undergraduate degree might be in science, law, engineering, or the social sciences—you don’t need a degree in science to apply for the Master of Climate Change Science and Policy.

To find out more about career opportunities with the Master of Climate Change Science and Policy, see What can I do with my degree in Geology and Geophysics

Consider Diverse Perspectives

Develop your understanding of the physical nature of global climate change. Consider the ethical, scientific, and policy strengths and weaknesses of current and proposed strategies for dealing with it. Explore the political forces working for—and against—addressing this challenge.

Gain insight into the economics, politics, behavioural science, and public engagement critical to developing strategies to mitigate and adapt to the effects of climate change at a local, national, and global level.

Duration and Workload

3 Trimesters, 1.5 years

If you are studying full-time, you can expect a workload of 40 to 45 hours a week for much of the year. Part-time students will need to do around 20 to 23 hours of work a week. Make sure you take this into account if you are working.