MPhil in Polar Studies (Scott Polar Research Institute)

The aims of the course are to provide an understanding of key contemporary research problems in a range of disciplines in the humanities, social sciences and natural sciences relating to the Arctic and Antarctica, and to allow students to undertake original research on a topic selected in consultation with members of staff.
The MPhil in Polar Studies consists of a core interdisciplinary element after which students follow one of two strands (Social Sciences and Humanities; or Natural Sciences). Lecture, seminar and practical-based teaching takes place in the Michaelmas term. The remaining two terms are devoted to a supervised research-led dissertation.
The course is examined through the submission of two pieces of coursework, a presentation and the dissertation. Dissertation topics are agreed with supervisors and are closely integrated with the ongoing research activities of the Scott Polar Research Institute (SPRI).