Risk Analysis MSc at Kings College London

Our Risk Analysis MSc has a unique focus on the societal, health, safety and environmental aspects of risk – rather than the financial aspects. We will provide you with a deep knowledge and understanding of social science theories, concepts, techniques and organisational approaches to risk assessment, management, governance and communication.

Scholarships

We have a scholarship available for students in their final year of certain relevant undergraduate courses within the School of Global Affairs.  

Key benefits

• Access to experts in the field of risk analysis.
• Potential for three-week internship with leading public and private sector organisations.
• Close links with, and speakers from, government and industry, which will give you up-to-the-minute knowledge of the subject area.

Description

In recent years, the ideas, concepts and tools of risk analysis have come to dominate the way in which we conceive and respond to an ever-expanding range of societal threats to the environment, health, security, prosperity or even lifestyle. However, how we assess, manage, govern and communicate risk is regularly the source of political conflict, and this poses dilemmas for policymakers, public and private sector organisations and individuals alike. It is
increasingly recognised that such issues –evident in crises from food safety to banking – cannot be addressed by simple technical ‘know-how’ alone. They require understanding of the political, organisational and social contexts in which decisions are made.

Our course draws together a unique combination of risk scholarship from across the social sciences,  including psychology, political science and sociology, to provide an advanced academic foundation in risk studies. In doing so, it will equip you to critically analyse risk issues in a wide range of public policy, organisational and societal settings, to evaluate the dynamics of risk governance and management options, and to develop reflexive communication strategies.

Career prospects

This course will enable you to undertake further doctoral research or enter careers as risk specialists. Our graduates work in industry, consultancies, governmental and non- governmental agencies. Past graduates have used the skills they developed with us to enter and excel in a variety of positions including the World Bank, European Commission, HM Government, UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, UK Food Standards Agency, US Department of Homeland Security, Medical Research Council, Pricewaterhouse Coopers, KPMG, SwissRe, Ernst and Young, Marsh Risk Consulting, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, Total, L’Oreal, Network Rail, Sainsburys and ING.