Master's Programmes

An unparalleled postgraduate degree experience

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The United Nations University (UNU) provides its master’s degree students with an unparalleled postgraduate experience. Master’s students are encouraged to undertake research alongside expert United Nations researchers in areas mandated by the United Nations University Charter. UNU students benefit from educational opportunities provided by the University’s global system of 15 specialized institutes. 

UNU master’s programmes are open to both recent graduates of an undergraduate programme and graduates with several years of work experience. UNU currently confers a master of science (MSc) degree, which prepares students for advancement to a PhD programme as well as work at the United Nations and other international organizations. Applicants must demonstrate that they have completed an accredited bachelor’s degree programme (or equivalent) from a recognized institution of higher education.

Application procedures differ by programme and institute. If you are interested in one of the master’s degree programmes, please contact the relevant institute directly with any questions.

MSc in Sustainability

Offered by UNU-IAS (Tokyo, Japan), this two-year programme provides students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to contribute to solving challenges of sustainability 

MSc in Public Policy and Human Development

Offered by UNU-MERIT (Maastricht, Netherlands), this rigorous, fast-paced, one-year master’s programme, trains students in designing, monitoring and evaluating policy, equipping them with a variety of quantitative and qualitative skills, and tools and knowledge to work in policy-related fields throughout the world. 

MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security

Offered by UNU-EHS (Bonn, Germany), this international joint programme with the University of Bonn provides postgraduate students with detailed knowledge, critical understanding, strategies, and the tools required to take an interdisciplinary approach towards environmental risks and human security.