Environmental Monitoring, Modelling and Management enables you to gain a deeper understanding of environmental processes and techniques for managing
environmental change. Study how to assess the causes and manage the consequences
of environmental, climatic and land use change. Students choose to take either a research or a consultancy stream.
KEY BENEFITS
- Focuses on the delivery of important technical skills (GIS, Remote Sensing, modelling and monitoring).
- Students form strong links with departmental research groups and external organisations in the UK and beyond.
- Established since 1997.
- Located in the heart of London.
KEY FACTS
Student destinations
National or international consultancies and NGOs; private and public service research and management; further higher level research in UK and overseas universities and research centres.
Programme leader/s
Dr Andreas Baas
Awarding Institution
King's College London
Credit value (UK/ECTS equivalent)
UK 180/ECTS 90
Duration
One year FT, two years PT, September to September.
Location
Strand Campus.
Year of entry 2013
Offered by
School of Social Science and Public Policy
Department of Geography
Closing date
None.
Intake
Approximately 30 FT/PT.
Fees
PT Home: £3950 (2013)
PT Overseas: £8125 (2013)
FT Home: £7900 (2013)
FT Overseas: £16250 (2013)
CONTACTS
Contact information
Centre for Arts & Sciences Admissions (CASA)
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7848 1977 / 7203
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7848 7200
Email
Website
PURPOSE
For those seeking a deeper understanding of environmental processes and techniques for managing environmental change. Provides advanced-level training in the application of environmental modelling and monitoring, remote sensing and geographical information systems (GIS) to environmental management and the prevention, mitigation or adaptation to environmental change.
DESCRIPTION
This programme examines how to assess the causes of, and manage the consequences of, environmental, climatic and land use change. You can choose to take either a "Research" or a "Consultancy" stream: they share core training elements but the Research stream links the student to a departmental research group working on aspects of environmental modelling and monitoring, while the Consultancy stream fosters links with external organisations and emphasises environmental management and consultancy over research.
We use an apprenticeship approach which embeds students in a departmental research groups (Research stream) or an external environmental, governmental or industrial agency (Consultancy stream). Both streams can include a dissertation placement collaborative with UK or overseas external organisations.
EXTRA PROGRAMME INFORMATION
Students can opt for the Research stream or the Consultancy stream. The compulsory modules for both streams include: Environmental Remote Sensing, Environmental GIS, Modelling Environmental Change at the Land Surface and Methods for Environmental Research. Students following the consultancy stream must also take Seminars in Environmental Research Management & Policy and an option module. Students following the research stream must also take Monitoring Environmental Change and Environmental Research Design & Application.
STRUCTURE OVERVIEW
Core programme content
Core module (Research & Consultancy pathways: 60 credits):- 7SSG5181 Dissertation in Environmental Monitoring, Modelling and Management (60 credits) (must Take and Pass)
Compulsory module (Research & Consultancy pathways: 20 credits):
- 7SSG5110 Methods for Environmental Research (20 credits)
Compulsory module (Research pathway: 20 credits):
- 7SSG5111 Environmental Research Design and Application (20 credits)
Compulsory module (Consultancy pathway: 20 credits):
- EITHER 7SSG5117 River Processes and Management (20 credits) OR 7SSG5165 Environmental Science and Policymaking (20 credits)
Indicative non-core content
Optional modules (80−110 credits):
Students must take 80 credits optional modules, with at least 60 credits from the “list of prescribed optional modules” given below, and the other credits may come from any Level 7 (Masters) modules offered in the Geography Department (including those on the list of prescribed optional modules). Students on either stream who wish to take greater than 180 credits overall (for a maximum total of 210 credits) will require approval from the Programme Director using the Module Amendment Form available from the Department Office. However, it is not necessary to take these additional credits and it is strongly advised that students generally restrict themselves to the minimum number of credits required.
List of Prescribed Optional Modules:
- 7SSG5029 Environmental Remote Sensing (20 credits)
- 7SSG5031 Modelling Environmental Change at the Land Surface (20 credits)
- 7SSG5035 Monitoring Environmental Change (20 credits)
- 7SSG5109 Environmental GIS (20 credits)
Other Optional Modules Available to Students on this Programme:
- Any Level 7 (Masters) modules offered in the Geography Department, including from the list of prescribed optional modules given above. Please click here for a full list of the modules offered in the 2013/14 academic year.
- Up to 20 credits of Level 7 modules from any KCL Departments or Institutes outside of Geography.
Please note that the above programme structure is subject to formal approval.
FORMAT AND ASSESSMENT
Specialist taught modules assessed mainly by written coursework, oral presentations, lab work and practical sessions. The three-month written dissertation is compulsory and is based upon work conducted overseas or in the UK.
MODULES
More information on typical programme modules.
NB it cannot be guaranteed that all modules are offered in any particular academic year.
Module code: 7SSG5110
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 20
Semester:
Semester 1 (autumn)
This module aims to provide a background in issues and methods involved in doing environmental research, including research methods and design. To achieve this, the module consists of a series of lectures, seminars, and practicals giving an overview of methods in designing, analyzing, presenting and evaluating environmental research. A subcomponent of this module will be an additional unassessed but required set of practicals and seminars giving a overview of laboratory and field equipment available in the KCL Department of Geography. On completion of this module, the student will be able to define the features of environmental problems and will be able to assess environmental investigations in terms of their design strategies for collection of data, data analysis, and results presentation. When taken with 7SSG5111 the students will be fully equipped to carry out their own independent research into environmental problems using these methodologies.
Module code: 7SSG5111
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 20
Semester:
Semester 1 (autumn)
This module aims to provide a thorough experience in designing environmental investigations to be carried out through a combination of simulation modelling, environmental monitoring, laboratory experiments and/or statistical analysis. It consists of a practical research project with individual/small group supervision to put the issues learnt in Methods for Environmental Research into practice. On completion of the module, students will be able to design strategies for collection of data, use advanced data analysis techniques, and present the results of investigations both orally and in written form, and thus be capable of carrying out independent research in related issues. In this way, the student will be prepared to carry out a detailed individual study in the dissertation component of the MSc programme. In combination with the dissertation, the module enables the student to go on to carry out further research, whether this be at PhD level, or within a research institute where applied research into environmental problems is carried out
Module code: 7SSG5165
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 20
Semester:
Semester 2 (spring)
The aims of this module are to deepen students’ understanding of the relationships between science and environmental policy formulation and the issues and challenges that may arise and to develop practical skills in knowledge transfer.
At the end of this module, students should have:
- Understanding of the interactions between scientific research and environmental policy formulation
- Ability to anticipate the issues and challenges that may arise when students are engaged in the policymaking process
- Practical skills in knowledge transfer
- Improved written and oral communication skills
Module code: 7SSG5117
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 20
Semester:
Semester 2 (spring)
This module aims to provide the key knowledge and understanding necessary to support the development of management strategies for rivers. It therefore embraces three complementary topics: the dimensions of catchment and river system processes, particularly the connectivity between catchment, river and their floodplain processes and the interdependency of hydrological, geomorphological and ecological processes; the ways in which human activities at a range of spatial and temporal scales impact on the fluvial system and how these impacts propagate through the catchment, river system and floodplain; the options available for environmentally-sensitive management of rivers, their catchments and floodplains.
Module code: 7SSG5109
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 20
Semester:
Semester 2 (spring)
This module enables students to capture spatial GIS data from a variety of sources, to assess and manage spatial data quality, to integrate and analyse these data within the latest business and research standard GIS environments, both commercial and open-source. The module focuses particularly on the integrated use of spatial (GIS) data alongside remote sensing technologies and simulation models for better understanding and managing the natural environment. Various aspects of spatial and spatio-temporal analysis are covered and the role of GIS in supporting management decisions is emphasised. Course materials focus on the physical environment and ecological systems but include socio-economic information where useful.
Module code: 7SSG5029
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 20
Semester:
Semester 1 (autumn)
The module enables students to understand the information content of optical, thermal and radar remotely sensed data and to be able to identify the appropriate type of data for use in different environmental investigations. Students will learn to understand and apply various data calibration, processing and analyses techniques to maximize the interpretation of remotely sensed imagery. They will search, order and import various types of remote sensing data into appropriate software packages, and will be able to identify, obtain, calibrate, process and interpret data from sensors such as the Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer and/or Landsat Thematic Mapper to illustrate examples of environmental change phenomena.
Module code: 7SSG5031
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 20
Semester:
Semester 2 (spring)
Through seminars and hands on experience, this module enables students to develop a research-level understanding of environmental modelling applications and limitations. Students will gain the ability to build, develop and apply a wide-range of modelling solutions to environmental problems. Students will also be able to critically assess research involving models and the application of models.
Module code: 7SSG5035
Credit level: 7
Credit value: 20
Semester:
Semester 1 (autumn)
This module introduces students to the details and practicalities of environmental monitoring, using a variety of methodologies and measurement techniques, specifically using electronic-based sensors and instrumentation. Students acquire the skills to manipulate raw field, laboratory and logged data for analysis, to monitor, measure and analyse data on environmental stores and fluxes, and to interpret, analyse and present field and laboratory data clearly in written reports in order to explain processes operating in the environmental system under investigation. Students will also gain experience to design field or laboratory based research projects to monitor environmental systems, making use of appropriate field, laboratory and measurement equipment. Field monitoring methods are taught in the context of atmospheric environments, catchment monitoring, fluvial systems, hydrological processes, complemented with a practical fieldwork exercise.
ACADEMIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
General entry advice
Minimum standard is a 2:1 degree or international equivalent, e.g. GPA of 3.25 from a US University, with preference given to geography, natural sciences (such as environmental science, physics, chemistry and biology) and engineering subjects. Candidates who do not achieve a 2:1 but have professional or voluntary experience will also be considered. Mature candidates will be considered favourably.
APPLYING TO KING'S
To apply for graduate study at King's you will need to complete our graduate online application form. Applying online makes applying easier and quicker for you, and means we can receive your application faster and more securely.
King's does not normally accept paper copies of the graduate application form as applications must be made online. However, if you are unable to access the online graduate application form, please contact the relevant admissions/School Office at King's for advice.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
We run a rolling admissions system. We aim to process all complete applications within four weeks; during February and March and over holiday periods, applications may take longer to process. There is no set deadline.
PERSONAL STATEMENT & SUPPORTING INFORMATION
Please provide a personal statement that shows how your own interests are linked to the programme. In this statement please describe your academic background, your reasons for applying for this programme and what you hope to gain from it, including any relevant experience, strengths, ambitions or research interests. Include any computing skills/proficiency that may not be covered elsewhere in your application.
FUNDING
Varied including Research Councils, University of London Scholarships, departmental bursaries and career development loans. For overseas students Chevening Scholarships are available from the British Council. For further information on funding, including conditions of eligibility, please consult the Postgraduate Funding Page on the Masters section of the Geography Department's website -
http://www.kcl.ac.uk/sspp/departments/geography/study/masters/funding.aspx
Student profiles
Environmental Monitoring, Modelling & Management MSc
I moved to London to take a place on the BSc Geography at King's in 1999. The academic environment, research focus and location of the department suited me perfectly, so I decided to remain at King's to read for the MSc Environmental Modelling, Monitoring and Management offered by the department. During my master's I fostered good relationships with members of the environmental monitoring and modelling group with whom I collaborated successfully to secure an ESRC/NERC Interdisciplinary Studentship to fund my PhD. The reputation, facilities and friendly atmosphere at King's has allowed me to get the most out of my graduate research, and the recent redevelopment of the Strand Campus has enhanced the already excellent facilities for learning and research.
My time as a PhD student has been very enriching intellectually. Alongside the advances I have made in my research training, I've made the most of opportunities to tutor and teach undergraduates. On completion of my thesis I hope to continue in academia, but the skills and experience I have gained whilst at King's stand me in good stead to pursue many different career paths.
Prospective students should be aware that accommodation in London, whilst often good and widely available, is fairly expensive, as is the general cost of living.
In London, you are in the heart of one of the world's global cities, everything you could want and more is on the doorstep of your campus. I worked for two years in the students' union bar - great fun! Whatever previous experience you have, there are plenty of opportunities for part-time work in London.
For travelling, get your student Oyster card and don't travel at rush hour if you can help it. I cycle to King's - saving myself even more! Weekends can be expensive to go out. Remember there's something happening in London every night of the week, why wait until Saturday?
Environmental Monitoring, Modelling & Management MSc
I wanted to study in London because of its vibrant atmosphere, numerous attractions and multitude of work opportunities. What made King’s stand out was that everyone - from the staff in my department and the International Student Support team, to the Admissions team and Accommodation Services - made me feel special from the outset.
My course is very stimulating and presents incredible opportunities. Within a year, I have been able to pursue my interests in conservation and climate change, and completed internships at institutions such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the BBC World Service Trust. I am currently working on a dissertation project offered by my department in partnership with the University of Cambridge, the United Nations Environmental Programme and the World Conservation Monitoring Centre.
Alongside my studies, I have thoroughly enjoyed my role as a Student Ambassador and editor of the monthly newsletter. I have also written for the Students’ Union publication ROAR, and participated in events organised by the French Society and the Wildlife Conservation Society.
I am based at the Strand Campus. The facilities available here coupled with the fact that it is very close to the Maughan library, all contribute towards making this campus a dynamic learning hub. Its central location ensures that there is no dearth of things one can do around campus: having a pint in the Waterfront bar, taking in the wonderful view of London from Waterloo Bridge, talking a stroll around Trafalgar Square or even shopping in Covent Garden!
King’s offers a very well-structured accommodation system. Living in a graduate residence with a very international feel allowed me to make friends from all over the world. I also saved a lot on commuting expenses as my residence was minutes away from my campus. Plus, being able to see the London Eye and the Big Ben from my room was simply out of this world!
Living in London can be very expensive, but a number of schemes exist to help students. The student Oyster photocard can save you money on tube or bus travel within London; a 16-25 railcard provides discount on train fares; and an NUS Extra card gives you discounts at a number of stores. Student deals are rife in London, and making the most of discounts means that you will not have to part with more money than is necessary.
Staff profiles
Environmental Monitoring, Modelling & Management MSc
I teach on the MSc in Environmental Monitoring, Modelling & Management, one of the oldest, yet forward looking and exciting environmental taught programmes in the UK. The programme provides advanced level training in computing, laboratory and fieldwork to effectively investigate causes, consequences and solutions to environmental changes. It covers a wide range of subjects, and is particularly relevant in today's world.
This programme has both research and consultancy streams, an internship course, internship dissertations, NERC funded studentships, and a team of research active scientists who teach on the programme. One reason I believe this programme is particularly good is that these scientists, my colleagues, are friendly and approachable, yet take teaching seriously. They are all well-respected in many aspects of the environment including hydrological, geomorphological, biophysical, atmospheric and ecological. You become integrated into this group!
My particular research is in natural and environmental hazards, including wildfires, floods, earthquakes, landslides and heavy-metal contamination. This research includes time-series analyses, the comparison of models with data and fieldwork. I am particularly interested in the application of this research for developing countries. I enjoy my research but, like many of my colleagues, also very much enjoy teaching and use my research to motivate and illustrate this.
The students who take the programme tend to be a sociable crowd (and we meet many of them in the regular Tuesday pub outings!) Most go on to careers in consultancy, environmental research, industry, public organisations including government, industry and universities (including PhD paths).