Applications are now open for the 2026/27 WASCAL Master Programme on Climate Change and Marine Sciences (Full Scholarships awarded to the top 12 students)
Closing Date: 22 March 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026/27 WASCAL Master Programme on Climate Change and Marine Sciences (Full Scholarships awarded to the top 12 students)
The Atlantic Technical University (UTA), in collaboration with the West African Science Service
Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL), invites applications for the sixth
cohort of its Master’s Research Programme on Climate Change and Marine Sciences (MRP-
CCMS).
WASCAL Master Programme on Climate Change and Marine Sciences
WASCAL is a West African international organization dedicated to advancing academic and transdisciplinary research, building graduate-level scientific expertise, and providing science-
based policy advice on climate change adaptation and land use management. Funded by the
German Federal Ministry of Research Technology and Space (BMFTR) and 12 member
countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Nigeria,
Senegal, The Gambia, and Togo), collaborates with regional agencies and universities to
establish a knowledge platform of excellence
WASCAL Master Programme on Climate Change and Marine Sciences Programe Structure
Key Components:
- Language Proficiency Training (4 Months):
- Francophones & Lusophones: English language training at the University of Cape
Coast, Ghana. - Anglophones: French language training at the University of Lomé, Togo.
- Francophones & Lusophones: English language training at the University of Cape
- Coursework (3 Semesters):
- Joint master’s courses on climate change, marine sciences, and coastal management.
- Instructions delivered by national and international lecturers.
- Practical Training:
- Shipboard training on local or international research vessels (subject to availability and
sponsorship). - Field training and research projects supported by the Ocean Science Centre Mindelo (OSCM).
- Shipboard training on local or international research vessels (subject to availability and
- International Exposure:
- A three-week scientific trip to German partner institutions (when applicable).
- This interdisciplinary program equips students with the expertise to pursue careers in academia, industry, consultancy, or governmental agencies.
Eligibility Requirements
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a WASCAL member country (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, The Gambia, or Togo).
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Oceanography, Fishing or Livestock Engineering, Geography, or Sciences of the Atmosphere.
- Language Proficiency: At least an intermediate level in English.
Citizens of other ECOWAS countries may apply as self-funded students, subject to availability.
Scholarships and Fees
Scholarships:
Full Scholarships are awarded to the top 12 students (one per WASCAL member country). WASCAL will grant scholarships to selected students in the Master Research Programme on Climate Change and Marine Sciences. The scholarship is extended every year after successful completion of the study programme.
The scholarship includes:
- monthly stipend to cover accommodation, and living expenses for the period of studies;
- payment of university fees;
- research budget;
- a personal laptop computer on loan for the duration of the programme.
Self-Funded Students:
Up to 12 self-funded students are accepted.
Estimated cost:
- First Year: €7,500.00 (travel, insurance, language course, shipboard training and others)
- Second Year: €3,960.00 (travel, insurance and others)
- Tuition: €1,500 (per year).
Living expenses are not included.
Application Guidelines
- All documents must be submitted in English, except university degrees and transcripts,
which may remain in their original language. - The documents must be:
a. Signed.
b. Uploaded individually using the application form (HERE).
c. Named using the format: “Lastname_Firstname_DocumentType” - If a national ID is provided, a passport is not required at the application stage. However,
upon acceptance, a valid passport (minimum three years) will be mandatory
Application Process
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Identity Document (ID/Passport)
- Letter of Motivation (max. 2 pages)
- University Degree Certificate
- Academic Transcripts
- Proof of English Proficiency
- Professional Experience (if any)
- First Recommendation Letter from professor or researcher
- Second Recommendation Letter from professor or researcher
Submission: Exclusively online in the application form, with all documents submitted in English (except university degree and transcript).
Students should also print, scan, and send the application form to [email protected].
Click Here To Apply
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