Apply for the United Nations University Joint Masters Scholarship for Developing Countries 2025

The Joint Master’s Program at United Nations University Scholarships is one of a select few international postgraduate programs that make use of the EPOS funding system provided by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

Postgraduate students can gain the in-depth knowledge, critical comprehension, tactics, and resources necessary to adopt an interdisciplinary approach to environmental risks and human security through the United Nations University (UNU) Scholarship combined M.Sc. program.

When is the Application Deadline:

Applications are accepted from September 15 to December 15, 2024, for the intake starting in October 2025.

Tell Me About The Award:

The Master of Science program focuses on providing postgraduate students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental risks and human security. It combines theoretical and methodological training with practical experiences in an interdisciplinary and multicultural environment, addressing the complexities of environmental hazards and their implications for human-nature relationships.

Which Fields are Eligible?

• Vulnerability Assessment
• Ecosystem Services
• Sustainable Development
• Disaster Management
• Climate Change Adaptation
• Human-Nature Relationships
• Science & Technology Studies
• Development Geography
• Geomorphology
• Socio-Hydrology
• Future Studies
• GIS and Remote Sensing

Type:

Master’s degree program (M.Sc.).

Who can Apply for the United Nations University Joint Masters Scholarship?

Applicants must have a first higher education qualification (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in Geography or a related field, with relevant coursework in human geography, empirical research methods, and physical geography. A strong motivation for human security and environmental risk management is required.

How are Applicants Selected?

Selection is based on academic qualifications, relevance of previous studies to the program, motivation, and potential for contributing to the field of environmental risks and human security.

Which Countries Are Eligible?

All countries are eligible, with a focus on students from developing countries and the Global South.

Where will the Award be Taken?

The program is conducted at the University of Bonn and the Institute for Environment and Human Security at the United Nations University.

How Many Awards?

The program does not specify a limited number of awards; however, it has accommodated 256 students from 46 different countries since its inception.

What is the Benefit of the Award?

The program provides:

• Advanced theoretical and methodological training
• Practical experience through internships
• Networking opportunities with international organizations and agencies
• Exposure to research projects and collaboration with the UN system

How Long Will the Award Last?

The program lasts two years, consisting of 12 modules, an internship, and a Master’s thesis.

How to Apply for the United Nations University Joint Masters Scholarship:

1. Read the information and FAQs thoroughly.
2. Submit the online application form.
3. Gather the required documents (including an academic writing sample).
4. Rename the application documents file as [your last name]. [your first name].pdf.
5. Email your application documents to master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu.

A COMPLETE APPLICATION PACKAGE MUST INCLUDE:

All documents must be submitted in English unless indicated otherwise.

1. Online Application
   – Confirmation will be sent via email after completing the online application.
   – Sign and date as explained, then attach to the application as a scan.
2. Motivation Letter
   – Minimum of 1 page and a maximum of 2 pages, must be dated.
   – For EPOS applicants: explain preferences if applying for more than one EPOS-funded program.
3. Recent CV in EUROPASS format
   – In reverse chronological order, dates must correspond precisely to attached references.
   – Maximum of 3 pages, must be dated.
4. Academic Degree Certificate(s)
   (Bachelor’s or equivalent & Master’s if available)
   – Must be in German or English; otherwise, provide a certified translation.
   – For EPOS applicants: must be stamped and/or signed by the issuing university on the original document.
5. Transcript(s) of Records
   (Bachelor’s or equivalent & Master’s if available)
   – Must be in German or English; otherwise, provide a certified translation.
   – Must include a current, identifiable total average grade.
   – Must include an overview of the applicable grading system (except for applicants from the German education system).
   – Include other academic credit such as exchange semesters, summer schools, etc.
   – For EPOS applicants: must be stamped by the issuing university on the original document or sent directly from the Registrar’s Office to master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu.
6. English Language Proficiency
   – Refer to the additional information below.
7. Academic Reference(s) (Recommended)
   – Optional: at maximum two references by former university lecturers.
   – Must be in German or English; otherwise, provide a certified translation.
   – Recent, dated, stamped, signed, and must contain a letterhead.
8. Copy of Passport
   – Page displaying your name and personal information.
9. Other Relevant References (Optional)
   – E.g., internships, previous employments, trainings, volunteering; at maximum three references (for EPOS applicants, see below).
   – As stated in the online application, do not include school certificates.
10. Only for applicants from China, India, or Vietnam
    – Scan of your APS Certificate (more information here: APS China | APS India | APS Ha Noi).

Note: All documents need to be submitted as scans in PDF format. Smartphone pictures in PDF format will not be accepted. To combine, arrange, and compress your PDF application package, kindly use freely available software.

Visit the Award Webpage for Details: https://unu.edu/ehs/learning/msc-geography-environmental-risks-and-human-security#Scholarships

For more information, refer to the program’s official webpage or contact master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu for any queries.