Joint Masters UNU & University of Bonn Scholarship 2026 

Job Description

Opportunity Description

The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security is a two-year interdisciplinary Master’s program offered jointly by the United Nations University – Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) and the University of Bonn, Germany.

The program explores the complex interactions between environmental risks, climate change, natural hazards, and human security. It equips students with theoretical knowledge, practical research skills, and hands-on experience to address global environmental challenges—especially those affecting the Global South.

With a strong international reputation and direct exposure to UN institutions, international organizations, and research centers, this program offers a highly competitive academic and professional pathway. A limited number of DAAD EPOS fully funded scholarships are available for eligible applicants from developing countries.

Short Details in Table

Program Overview

The program focuses on environmental risks, human security, vulnerability, resilience, and climate change adaptation. Students learn qualitative and quantitative research methods, spatial analysis, GIS & Remote Sensing, disaster risk management, socio-ecological systems, and science-policy interfaces.

Key program characteristics include:

• Strong emphasis on the Global South

• Interdisciplinary learning in a multicultural environment

• Direct involvement in UNU-EHS research projects

• Close cooperation with UN agencies, NGOs, and international institutions

• Excellent global career opportunities in DRR, climate change, development, sustainability, and humanitarian fields

Since its launch in 2013, 279 students from 46 countries have joined this international program.

Scholarship Benefits (DAAD EPOS)

Applicants selected for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship receive:

• Full tuition coverage

• Monthly stipend

• Health insurance

• Travel allowance

• Settlement allowance

• Research and thesis support

• Opportunities for professional networking in Germany

(Note: Program admission does not guarantee receiving the scholarship.)

Eligibility Criteria

General Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Academic Background

• A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Geography or a closely related field.

• Majority of coursework must be related to:

  1. Human Geography & Social Sciences (society, development, spatial analysis)

  2. Research methodology & empirical methods

  3. Physical Geography / Geosciences / Environmental Sciences

• Engineering, International Relations, and unrelated fields are not eligible, unless strongly aligned with environmental risk studies.

• PhD holders or current PhD students are not eligible.

Motivation & Skills

• Strong motivation to work in human security and environmental risk management

• Commitment to interdisciplinary and multicultural learning

• English language proficiency certificate (TOEFL, IELTS, CAE, Duolingo, etc.)

Language Requirements

Accepted minimum scores:

• TOEFL PBT 550

• TOEFL iBT 79

• TOEFL CBT 213

• IELTS 6.5

• Cambridge CAE (≥ B2) or CPE

• Telc B2–C1

• PTE 67

• Duolingo 120

Additional Criteria for DAAD EPOS Applicants

To apply for the EPOS scholarship, candidates must also:

• Come from a DAAD-eligible developing country

• Have at least 2 years of relevant professional experience after completing the Bachelor’s degree

• Have graduated not more than 6 years ago

• Not hold another Master’s degree in a similar field

• Aim for a development-oriented professional career (not academic or PhD-focused)

• Commit full-time to the program if selected

Required Documents

Applicants must submit one combined PDF file (max 8MB) plus a separate file for the academic writing sample. Documents must be in English or include certified translations.

Complete Application Package (in exact order)

1. Online Application Form (signed & dated)

2. Motivation Letter (1–2 pages)

3. CV (EUROPASS format) – max 3 pages

4. Degree Certificate(s) (Bachelor & Master if available)

5. Transcripts of Records (with grading system)

6. English Language Certificate

7. Academic Reference(s) (optional, max 2)

8. Copy of Passport

9. Other Relevant Certificates (internships, employment)

10. APS Certificate (only for China, India, Viet Nam)

Additional Documents for DAAD EPOS Applicants

11. DAAD EPOS Checklist

12. DAAD Application Form

13. Scholarship Motivation Letter

14. Professional Reference from Current Employer

15. Work Certificate(s) – must show exact dates (dd.mm.yyyy)

Separate Document

16. Sample of Academic Work

• Max 1000-word essay

• APA style

• 10 references allowed

• Topic: “To what extent do the SDGs address environmental risk, and which modifications would you suggest to give the topic higher relevance in a post-2030 agenda?”

Application Procedure

Follow the steps below:

1. Read all instructions and FAQs carefully.

2. Complete the online application form (you will receive a confirmation email).

3. Prepare all required documents exactly as listed.

4. Merge documents into one PDF file named:
   lastname.firstname.pdf

5. Attach the academic writing sample as a separate PDF file.

6. Email all documents to:
   master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu

7. Ensure all files are:

   • Scanned (not smartphone photos)

   • In the correct order

   • Under 8MB

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Visit Official web Page 

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