Location:

Exmouth, United Kingdom

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Ecology

Program Overview

Program Description:

This postgraduate programme in holistic science completely re-evaluates our scientific understanding of nature, the ecological crisis we face and our role in widespread ecological, economic, sustainable and social change. Western scientific method is dominated by specialisation in disciplines and by ‘reductionism’ – the idea that natural phenomena can be explained and understood in terms of their smallest parts. This programme goes beyond both reductionism and specialisation to understand dynamic, whole systems. Such systems have ‘emergent properties’ which describe their characteristics as wholes. These are explored at all levels from individual organisms to organisations, and from ecosystems to the Earth. Integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches which include, for example, chaos and complexity theories, computer modelling, intuitive perception and cooperative inquiry, you will develop a holistic understanding of these systems and learn to work with them creatively. This programme adopts new transdisciplinary methodologies to understand natural systems. Modules are taught through lectures, seminars, group dialogue and experiential work, assessed through presentations and written papers. As a graduate of the MSc in Holistic Science you will be able to take a broad, systemic approach to, for example, environmental management, education for sustainability, biological research, business management or health issues. Programme content Core modules • Science of qualities • Chaos and complexity • The living Earth Optional modules Two modules chosen from the short-course programme, taught by visiting teachers with an international reputation (eg Fritjof Capra, Amit Goswami, Oliver Greenfield, Colin Hines, Tim Kasser, Manfred Max-Neef, Gunter Pauli, Ravi Ravindra, Wolfgang Sachs, Rupert Sheldrake, Vandana Shiva and Margaret Wheatley).

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

Not applicable

Financial Aid:

No

Requirements:

We normally expect our MSc students to hold a first degree in a natural or a social science, but we will accept applications from non-graduates in circumstances when relevant life and work experience can be demonstrated. The primary qualification we are looking for is a strong interest in nature, how it evolves and self-organises and what we as individuals, organisations and cultures can learn from it in our quest for a sustainable future.

International Requirements:

Applicants with overseas qualifications can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through NARIC, who provide an advisory service. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is normally 6.5.