United Nations University

Apply for International Fellowships at United Nations University

The United Nations University – UNU, is the academic research arm of the United Nations. The mission of the university is to contribute, through collaborative education and research, as well as, resolve the disturbing global problems of human survival, development, and welfare that concern the United Nations, its people, and members.

The United Nations work with top-ranking universities and research institutes in the UN member states, that function as a bridge between the United Nations and the academic world, as a way of achieving its aim. Its headquarters is in Tokyo, Japan.

There are a few postgraduate programmes offered by the UNU. However, it will continue to extend its global scope and build on its list of postgraduate courses in order to accommodate top academics and postgraduate students who are willing and ready to address some global issues faced by the international community.

Master’s Programme at the University

The United Nations University (UNU) Master’s programmes are made available to graduates who are ready to take up researches in relevant areas mandated by the university. A Master of Science (MSc) degree is conferred on students and prepares them for advancements to a PhD programme.

To qualify for the master’s degree programme, applicants must present proof of the completion of an accredited bachelor’s degree programme from a relevant university. The master’s programmes include:

MSc in Sustainability;  MSc in Public Policy and Human Development; and MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security (an international joint MSc programme).

Doctoral Programmes at the University

Currently, there are a few doctoral programmes offered by the United Nations University. To qualify for the doctoral programmes, applicants must demonstrate that they have completed their master’s degree programme or its equivalent from an accredited university.

There are various accreditation processes for each programme and institute. Therefore, applicants are asked to reach out to relevant institutes for further information on the process of application.

The different doctoral programmes include:

1. Dual Career Training Programme to obtain a PhD in Governance and Policy Analysis ( GPAC2) in Maastricht.
2. PhD Programme on Innovation, Economics and Governance for Development ( IEGD) in Maastricht.
3. PhD in Sustainability Science in Tokyo.
4. Integrated Management of Water, Soil and Waste (Joint PhD programme) in Dresden.

The United Nations University offers a  number of scholarships and fellowship programs for international students from around the world like:

• The United Nations University Japan/PhD in Sustainability Science
• The United Nations University Iceland / The UNU Fisheries Training Programme
• Master’s Degree in the United Nations and the Art of Peace.
• The United Nations Office of the High Commission / Fellow Programme for People of African Descent.
• The United Nations University World Institute for Development Economics Research  Visiting PhD Fellowship Programme.
• Codification Division of the United Nations Office of Legal Affairs / International Law Fellowship Programme.

See the most recent fellowship opportunities at the United Nations University below.