Our Institute offers a Master of Arts (Research on Islands and Small States) available both full-time and part-time, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D). It also offers a micro-credential course: the MQF Level 7 Award in Islands, Small States and Archipelago Studies (10 ECTS). You can access more details here.
The ISSI offers a hybrid programme to its MA (Research) and Ph.D. non-resident students, with the option of being fully online if offered the scholarship.
Research focuses on the economic, social, cultural, legal, ecological and geographical aspects of islands, small states, sub-national jurisdictions and territories. Primary areas include sustainability, economy, health systems, tourism, culture and climate change, open to explore diverse areas and disciplines, with an emphasis on an interdisciplinary approach.
Candidates must satisfy the University of Malta’s general entry requirements for postgraduate or doctoral studies. Verification of previous degrees and qualifications is handled by the University’s Admissions Office.
Applicants usually need an internationally recognised English Language Proficiency Certificate (e.g., IELTS). However, if your previous degree was taught in English or your country of nationality has English as an official language, the requirement may be waived after certification by the University offices.
Interested students are encouraged to contact the ISSI team (islands@um.edu.mt) at the earliest opportunity, and not later than the deadline stipulated on our ‘Studying with us’ webpage, to discuss their research interests and discuss admission requirements.
Yes. Candidates for research-based degrees must develop a proposal. While the initial input must come from the student, the ISSI team provides guidance and iterations to help the proposal reach the expected academic standards. Access here the research template for Masters and Ph.Ds.
Yes, there are two primary types of scholarships:
Further information is found on our ‘Studying with us’ webpage.
For UM Postgraduate Scholarships, the fee waiver amount is based on your performance in an online interview:
Kindly refer to the deadlines stipulated on our ‘Studying with us’ webpage.
Most scholarships consist of a waiving of tuition fees only and do not provide support for travel or living costs in Malta. However, some specific SIDS grants may include a small research grant (e.g., €1,000) for fieldwork costs. You will find more details here and here.