Sustainable Development Advocacy (Professional Practice) MA

The Bulmer Foundation’s Masters Degree in Sustainable Development Advocacy is a unique initiative designed to equip graduates to influence government, community and business to move towards more sustainable practices.

The course aims to produce highly skilled advocates who can successfully effect change, as well as promote, facilitate and develop sustainable development policies and practices in their chosen career.

The Programme is a challenging learning experience that involves the development and practice of advocacy skills through masterclasses, community placements and live projects.

The course is based at the Bulmer Foundation in Hereford and is delivered in partnership between the University of Worcester and the Bulmer Foundation.

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How to Apply

For all taught postgraduate and PG Cert programmes, please apply directly to University of Worcester. You can download an application form, or can contact the Admissions office on 01905 855111 / pg-admissions@worc.ac.uk

Please post your completed application form to:
Admissions Office
University Of Worcester
Henwick Grove
Worcester
WR2 6AJ

Alternatively you can apply online for postgraduate programmes at University of Worcester via the Prospects online directory of postgraduate programmes. There is no fee for using the online application service.

When we receive your application form, your details will be passed to the Masters Programme Leader who will contact you to arrange an informal interview. You may include additional material, such as references, in support of your application or bring them with you to interview.

You can apply for postgraduate taught courses and PG Certs at any time, but preferably as early as possible before the start of the academic year, which begins in September.

Study options

The Masters in Sustainable Development Advocacy is an intensive programme, which runs full-time over one year, or part-time over three years.

The course is based at the Cider Museum in central Hereford and is delivered in partnership between the University of Worcester and the Bulmer Foundation.

Get in touch

Christianne Wakeham
Programme Leader
01432 378409 / 07770 644270
c.wakeham@worc.ac.uk

Admissions Office
01905 855111
admissions@worc.ac.uk

We believe that the challenge of sustainable development demands interdisciplinary solutions. We welcome applications from people who have a first Degree in the arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences or vocational subjects.

If you have equivalent work experience we would be happy to discuss your eligibility with you.

All applicants should be able to demonstrate a personal commitment to working towards a more sustainable world.

Modules

For the MA all modules are mandatory, but there is plenty of choice within the placement and project modules to allow students to focus on the sustainability themes they find most interesting.

For the Postgraduate Certificate, students undertake SDAP 4011 (Masterclasses), one sector placement and either SDAP 4016, (the Team Task) or SDAP 4017, (Advocating change).

For the Postgraduate Diploma, students undertake SDAP 4011 (Masterclasses), three sector placements, SDAP 4016, (Team Task)and SDAP 4017, (Advocating change).

SDAP 4011 Sustainable Development Advocacy Masterclasses
A series of lectures and discussion groups to provide the core evidence base and cutting edge knowledge needed to underpin your efficacy in advocating for change.

SDAP 4012-15 Sector Placements
You will choose three of these four, one month long, placements with local, regional and/or National organisations. You should expect to undertake a piece of work in the role of a professional consultant to your chosen organisation. Placement subject areas are:
SDAP 4012 Policy, standards and advice
SDAP 4013 Business
SDAP 4014 Media and campaigning
SDAP 4015 Community and Social

SDAP 4016 Team Task
You will work in small groups to undertake a research project or work of a similar nature in a live setting, on behalf of a local organisation or group. This module is designed to develop teamwork skills and to provide assistance to local organisations or groups seeking to address the sustainable development challenge.

SDAP 4017 Advocating Change
This module will comprise a range of activities designed to help you develop your communication and presentations skills as well as your personal resilience. You will keep a reflective diary and design and deliver two different types of presentation – an academic poster presentation and a public event.

SDAP4020 Sustainable Development Advocacy Project
The Sustainable Development Advocacy Project comprises an in depth piece of research or similar work, relating to an area of sustainable development chosen by you. This is a substantial piece of work where you can really push the boundaries of your skills and abilities.

Assessment

This is a practice-based programme and the teaching and learning methods include work-based learning, teamwork, debates, presentations, field visits and project research.

There are no exams - assessment is by coursework which is varied and relevant to the development of your professional skills. Throughout the course you will be supported by a small team of academic staff whilst benefiting from the input of widely respected sustainability practitioners.

Academic department

Institute of Science & the Environment

“The Institute’s acclaimed research has a common thread: our belief that science should be centred around its impact on people”
Professor John Newbury, Head of Institute

Employability

Postgraduate study will mark you out in today’s competitive job market, showing that you have enhanced knowledge in this subject area, as well as highlighting your ability to analyse, communicate and apply theory – all skills which are sought after by employers.