The School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of St Andrews, is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the Environmental Science MSc Awards the Cunningham Scholarship, funded by the Mining Institute of Scotland Trust (MIST).
The University of St Andrews, founded in 1413, is the oldest university in Scotland and the third oldest in the English-speaking world. Located in the historic town of St Andrews, it has a long tradition of academic excellence and is known for its strong research, beautiful coastal setting, and close-knit student community. Over the centuries, it has earned a global reputation for high-quality teaching and continues to attract students from around the world.
Table of Briefs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | The Cunningham Scholarship |
| Institution | University of St Andrews |
| Funding Body | Mining Institute of Scotland Trust (MIST) |
| Study Level | Postgraduate (MSc) |
| Eligible Programme | Environmental Science MSc |
| Scholarship Value | Full tuition fee for one academic year |
| Eligibility | Scotland home, Rest of UK (England, Wales, Northern Ireland) |
| Application Period | Â 5 June 2025 |
| Application Criteria | Financial need and academic merit |
| Mode of Study | Full-time or Part-time (daytime only) |
| Application Platform | Scholarships and Funding Catalogue in My Application |
| Required Documents | CV, academic transcript(s), one reference, personal statements |
Background
The Cunningham Scholarship supports students enrolling in the Environmental Science MSc at the University of St Andrews. Funded by the Mining Institute of Scotland Trust (MIST), this scholarship seeks to encourage the next generation of professionals in the mining and environmental sciences fields. MIST’s mission is to promote education in Earth sciences, and this scholarship is a testament to that vision.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Cunningham Scholarship, applicants must:
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Be applying for the Environmental Science MSc program (entry in 2025)
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Be classified as a Scotland home or Rest of UK student (England, Wales, Northern Ireland)
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Hold at least a 2:1 undergraduate degree (BSc or BEng), or possess equivalent relevant experience
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Apply after submitting an application to the course, but before receiving an offer
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Plan to study full-time or part-time (daytime only)
The scholarship is means-tested, so candidates must demonstrate financial need alongside academic merit.
Benefits
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Award Value: One full tuition fee for one academic year
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Duration: One academic year
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Number of Awards: One
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Assessment Criteria: Combination of academic merit and financial need
Application Process
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Apply for the MSc in Environmental Science at St Andrews via the university admissions portal.
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Access the Scholarships and Funding Catalogue in My Application.
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Complete the Women in Mining UK and Cunningham Scholarship Application (combined form).
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Upload the required documents (see below).
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Submit the application before the deadline: Thursday 5 June 2025.
Required Supporting Documents
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One academic or professional reference (can be the same as the course application or sent directly by referee)
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University transcripts (including interim transcripts if the degree is in progress)
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CV (Curriculum Vitae) with academic and research background
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Personal Statement, including:
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Career goals in Earth/environmental sciences
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Connection to St Andrews or Fife (if applicable)
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Justification for financial assistance
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Important Dates
Applications Deadline: 5 June 2025.
Conclusion
The Cunningham Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for students aiming to make a difference in the Earth and environmental sciences. Backed by the Mining Institute of Scotland Trust and hosted by the University of St Andrews, this award not only eases the financial burden of postgraduate education but also supports passionate, high-achieving individuals committed to advancing sustainability and environmental research.
Apply Now