Introduction

As the world rapidly advances into the digital age, opportunities for higher education have expanded beyond the confines of traditional brick-and-mortar institutions. The University of Edinburgh is at the forefront of this transformation, offering a range of online Master’s programs that are fully equivalent to their on-campus counterparts. These online Master’s programs provide a flexible and accessible path to higher education, allowing students to continue working while pursuing their academic ambitions from the comfort of their homes. In this article, we’ll explore the exciting opportunity provided by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh, which is designed to support students from Africa with exceptional academic and leadership potential but limited access to educational opportunities.

A Path to Quality Education: The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh aims to bridge the gap in access to quality education, particularly for students from Africa. This program offers postgraduate online scholarships, covering not only full tuition fees but also providing a modest study stipend to ensure students have access to high-quality internet connectivity. It’s a comprehensive package designed to support scholars throughout their educational journey.

One distinctive feature of this scholarship is that it’s tailored for part-time online study, making it even more accessible for students who need to balance their academic pursuits with other commitments. This three-year commitment to supporting online education demonstrates the program’s dedication to fostering the next generation of African leaders.

A Holistic Approach to Education

Beyond financial support, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at the University of Edinburgh become part of a broader community of scholars. They have the opportunity to engage in a Climate Leadership Programme, which addresses the pressing issue of climate change. Climate change is a global challenge that requires innovative and informed leaders to drive sustainable solutions. This program equips scholars with the knowledge, skills, and networks to make a meaningful impact in addressing the climate crisis.

Diverse Postgraduate Opportunities

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh offers a wide array of postgraduate opportunities, both in the form of online Master’s programs and online Postgraduate Diplomas. Let’s take a closer look at some of the programs available:

Online Master’s Programs

1. International Development (Masters route only): This program delves into pressing global issues, including climate change and sustainability. It explores the history of international development and the strategies employed to address climate change and related challenges.
2. Global Food Security and Nutrition (Masters or Diploma): This program focuses on food security, nutrition, and their connections to global population growth, climate change, and sustainable development.
3. Global Challenges (Masters or Diploma): A multidisciplinary approach that addresses sustainability, climate change, inequality, social justice, health, and the impacts of natural disasters.
4. Carbon Management (Masters route only): Designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge to tackle climate change from various perspectives, including economic, ecological, and business.
5. One Health (Masters or Diploma): Explores the intersection of human, animal, and ecosystem health, preparing professionals to address complex health challenges.
6. Circular Economy (Masters or Diploma): Focuses on resource efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable consumption, and other aspects crucial to sustainability.
7. Sustainable Lands and Cities (Masters or Diploma): Addresses the interrelationships between land, human development, and sustainability, offering solutions for sustainable communities.
8. Social Justice and Community Action (Masters or Diploma): Positions climate change as a social injustice and explores the convergence of climate justice, sustainable development, and social justice.

Online Postgraduate Diplomas

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Edinburgh, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:

• Academic qualification for admission to a relevant degree program at the University of Edinburgh.
• Having faced significant barriers to education (social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related).
• Graduation from an undergraduate program by September 2023, with a degree certificate and official final transcript.
• Residency in a Sub-Saharan African country.
• A track record of leadership and community service.
• A demonstrated commitment to making a meaningful impact on addressing the climate crisis.
• Age of 35 or under as of September 1, 2024.
• Not having previously completed a postgraduate degree or being enrolled in another university while on the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship.

Application Timeline

The application process for the 2023/24 intake unfolds as follows:

• October 23, 2023: Applications open.
• December 1, 2023: Completion of registration, eligibility assessment, and declaration.
• December 7, 2023: Applications close.
• Early February 2024: Online Distance Learners (ODL) Interview shortlisting begins.
• Mid to Late February 2024: ODL interviews take place.
• By mid-March 2024: ODL interview outcomes will be announced.
• March – July 2024: Support provided through admissions processes.
• September 2024: Academic program starts.

How to Apply

You must qualify academically for admission to the University of Edinburgh. We require that applicants apply for this scholarship before applying to the University.