Getting into a masters in a different discipline to undergrad

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Actually I don't think the OP is entirely in a impossible situation. The MSc you've described is hardly a skill-based one such as one based on engineering or mathematics so I don't think a matching undergrad degree is entirely necessary.

Though I suspect that since you've come from an 'unconventional' degree, that they'd want you to somehow portray your passion and understanding of the field. If you can reflect that in your application and if you have some relevant experience in the field (work experience, projects etc) then you'll be a relatively strong position. It wont hurt to drop the relevant unis an email and see if they'll consider you.

Reply 21

rise17

Original post by stewe

Hi all,

Sorry if this comes up all the time but I want to do a masters in environmental science/sustainability and my undergrad was in Chinese and History (2:1). I've been looking at various degrees and most of them (particularly those in continental universities) all say that you need a relevant undergrad. I've been told before that I would be able to get into a masters of a different discipline, does anyone know?

Thanks

Hello, I would not say that it is entirely impossible for you to do a Masters related to environment and sustainability. Maybe not so much of environmental science which might require more skills on statistics, modelling etc. But there are two options -

(i) Masters degree by research, in which you can craft a research that deals with environmental issues that can tap on your knowledge and skills acquired in your training as a history student.

(ii) Go for taught Masters program that focuses on the human geographical aspects of environment such as governance (see Manchester: http://www.sed.manchester.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/courses/06967/index.asp?code=06967&pg=2); management and policy (see Oxford: http://www.geog.ox.ac.uk/graduate/index.html?rn=3#strapline-box); development and globalisation (see KCL: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/sspp/departments/geography/study/masters/index.aspx)...

What I suggest is that you go to selected universities' departments to check out their Masters courses and what speciality areas they are reputable for.

Of course, since you are doing these courses at geography departments, you might be required to know some basic debates within the disciplines. But this can be, and is usually, answered by taking up the appropriate courses with the departments.

Because I come from a geographical training and background, I have suggested geography departments to further your masters. I am sure there are other departments outside geography, such as interdisciplinary institutes within the universities. You might want to use this as a starting point to research on the possible places to study: http://www.masterstudies.com/Masters-Degree/Environmental-Studies/MSc-in-Environmental-Sciences/UK/

Having said all these, you might also want to first and foremost ask yourself why pursue a Masters in environmental studies/sustainability? (and i hope it is out of interest as much as this sounds airy-fairy, but to make such a jump, I would imagine there must be some sort of 'idealist' impulse rather than a well-calculated move?)