Are you passionate about addressing climate change, disasters and risks to human security? Our Master’s Programme in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security, offered jointly by UNU-EHS and the Department of Geography at the University of Bonn, attracts students from around the world who are eager to learn how to turn knowledge into climate action. We asked some of our recent graduates why they chose this unique Programme. Here are their top 5 reasons why you should join them:
To make a real difference in your home country
Many of our students join this Programme with a clear mission: to return home and drive meaningful change in their countries and communities. They see the Joint Master’s as a way to gain the knowledge and tools needed to address pressing local challenges, from disaster risk reduction to climate change adaptation, and to contribute to building a safer, more resilient future.
To learn from inside the United Nations system
The Programme offers something rare: a direct connection to the United Nations system. Students gain first-hand insights into how global processes work and how international organizations operate. This insider perspective, combined with practical exposure to real-world projects and research, can open doors to opportunities for professional growth in the international policy, humanitarian or development sector.
To be part of a truly global community
Each cohort brings students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds together. They are changemakers from every continent with a shared commitment to driving positive impact. This multicultural environment creates spaces for rich classroom dialogue, cross-cultural collaboration and friendships that often turn into lasting professional networks and international partnerships.
To gain interdisciplinary knowledge on global challenges
From climate change and disaster risk reduction to human mobility in the context of climate change climate migration and sustainable development, the Joint Master’s Programme combines multiple disciplines to provide a holistic perspective on today’s interconnected risks. Students gain the tools to analyse complex problems from different angles, making them better equipped for roles in research, policy and practice.
To build skills for an international career
Graduates highlight how the Joint Master’s Programme strengthens not only their academic knowledge but also their professional skills, from research and critical thinking to communication and collaboration. Combined with the chance to work on real projects and research, these experiences prepare students for careers in international organizations, research institutes, NGOs and beyond.
Applications are open each year from 15 September to 15 December. Take the next step toward joining this global community of changemakers. Find more information here.
Suggested citation: "5 Ways Our Master's Programme Can Shape Your Future ," United Nations University, UNU-EHS, 2025-09-05, https://unu.edu/ehs/article/5-ways-our-masters-programme-can-shape-your-future.
