Migration, Climate Change and the Environment (MA)
Program Overview
The Master of Arts in Migration, Climate Change, and the Environment (MAMCE) program at Webster University explores the interconnectedness of these issues, providing students with a comprehensive understanding and equipping them with tools to address them effectively. The program offers a unique blend of academic and practical knowledge, drawing on the expertise of academics and practitioners from the International Geneva. Graduates are prepared for careers in governmental agencies, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, and more.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Master of Arts in Migration, Climate Change, and the Environment (MAMCE) program at Webster University focuses on the interconnectedness of migration, environmental degradation, and climate change. It provides students with a comprehensive understanding of these complex issues and equips them with the tools to address them effectively.
Objectives:
- Provide students with an in-depth understanding of contemporary migration dynamics and policy developments.
- Develop students' expertise in research methodologies, data analysis, and evidence gathering on migration and the environment.
- Equip students with the skills to analyze the role of migration in international environmental law, particularly climate change law.
- Foster an understanding of the legal complexities surrounding migration, including international humanitarian law, human rights law, and refugee law.
- Prepare students for advanced studies and research in migration.
Program Description:
The MAMCE program offers a unique blend of academic and practical knowledge, drawing on the expertise of both academics and practitioners from the International Geneva. Students benefit from a personalized approach and gain exposure to issues such as globalization, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), human rights law, international humanitarian law, humanitarian action, and economic development.
Outline:
Content:
The MAMCE curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Contemporary Migration Studies and Practice
- Research Methods and Perspectives
- Migration, Climate Change, and the Environment
- International Migration Law
- International Environmental Law
- International Human Rights Law and Organizations
- International Political Economy
- International Law
- International Disaster Law
- International Organizations
- The UN in International Politics
- Food and Water Security
- Energy Security
- International Security
Structure:
The program requires the completion of 36 credit hours, including:
- 6 credit hours of compulsory thesis
- 6 credit hours of graduate electives
- 2 courses from the Issues Cluster
- 2 courses from the Skills Cluster
- 2 courses from Migration and Environment Electives
Course Schedule:
The program is offered on a flexible schedule, allowing students to complete their studies at their own pace. Courses are typically offered in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate working professionals.
Individual Modules with Descriptions:
Issues Cluster:
- Migration and Health: Explores the health challenges and opportunities associated with migration.
- Politics of Development: Examines the political, economic, and social factors that shape development policies and their impact on migration.
- Area Studies: Focuses on a specific region of the world and its migration patterns.
- Humanitarian Issues in International Politics: Refugees and Migration: Analyzes the humanitarian challenges and responses to refugee and migration crises.
- Issues in International Politics: Global Governance and Sustainable Development Goals: Examines the role of global governance in addressing migration and achieving the SDGs.
Skills Cluster:
- International Environmental Law: Provides an overview of the legal framework governing environmental protection and its implications for migration.
- International Human Rights Law and Organizations: Explores the international human rights framework and the role of organizations in protecting the rights of migrants.
- International Political Economy: Examines the relationship between international politics and economic development, with a focus on migration.
- International Law: Provides a foundation in the principles and practice of international law, including its relevance to migration.
- International Disaster Law: Focuses on the legal framework for disaster response and its implications for migrants.
- International Organizations: Examines the structure, functions, and roles of international organizations in addressing migration.
- The UN in International Politics: Analyzes the role of the United Nations in global governance and its impact on migration.
- Food and Water Security: Explores the challenges and opportunities related to food and water security in the context of migration.
- Energy Security: Examines the relationship between energy security and migration.
- International Security: Analyzes the security implications of migration and the role of international cooperation in addressing them.
Migration and Environment Electives:
- Principles of Negotiation: Develops negotiation skills for addressing migration and environmental issues.
- International Humanitarian Law: Provides an overview of the legal framework for humanitarian assistance and its implications for migrants.
- Field Work: Offers practical experience in migration and environmental research.
- Professional Seminars: Provides opportunities to engage with experts in the field.
- Internship: Allows students to gain hands-on experience in a relevant organization.
Assessment:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Written assignments
- Research projects
- Presentations
- Participation in class discussions
- Thesis
Teaching:
The MAMCE program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and practice in the field of migration, climate change, and the environment. The program also benefits from the expertise of guest lecturers and practitioners from the International Geneva.
Careers:
Graduates of the MAMCE program are prepared for a wide range of careers in:
- Governmental agencies
- Intergovernmental organizations
- Non-governmental organizations
- Multinational corporations
- Media
- International migration law and human rights
- Humanitarian and disaster risk reduction
- Private sector
- Advanced studies and research
