Course summary

The aims of the course are to provide an understanding of key contemporary research problems in a range of disciplines in either the humanities and social sciences or physical sciences relating to the Arctic and Antarctica, and for students to undertake original research on a topic selected in consultation with members of staff. The MPhil in Polar Studies consists of two Strands (Social Sciences and Humanities; and Physical Sciences), each composed of two Modules. Lecture and seminar-based teaching take place in the Michaelmas term. The remaining two terms are devoted to a research-led dissertation. The course is examined through the submission of three essays 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).