Geophysical Hazards MSc

About this degree

Our MSc in Geophysical Hazards investigates the processes that turn natural events into hazards, from volcanic eruptions, earthquakes and landslides to floods, tsunami and hurricanes. It provides an essential grounding for all fields of hazard study, from pure research to applications in the commercial and humanitarian sectors.

Our programme offers a unique focus on quantitative and qualitative models for hazard forecasting and assessment, and demonstrates how knowledge of the controlling processes is vital for improving decision-making during emergencies, for raising awareness among vulnerable communities and for evaluating and implementing mitigation strategies.

Disasters resulting from natural hazards affect one in forty people across the world each year. All nations are at risk and the field of natural hazard and risk science is one of the fastest-growing areas of research in the Earth and Climate Sciences. Understanding how multiple hazards may intersect in space and time, and how their impacts may cascade over potentially global footprints, are critical areas of current research. Our programme offers a unique focus on hazard forecasting and assessment, incuding multi-hazards, and on how policymakers and communities can use science to increase resilience.

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Applicants whose qualifications are of lower second class honours standard may be admitted if evidence of an adequate academic background and appropriate field experience can be shown.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 1

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

About one third of our graduates have followed careers in global insurance and reinsurance; one third have pursued research with a PhD in hazard-related studies; and one third have developed careers in other sectors including ranging from non-governmental organisations, through teaching, to the fields of emergency planning and environmental management.