- Environmental Strategy
MSc — 2025 entry Environmental Strategy
Our Environmental Strategy MSc degree delves into the intersection of environmental concerns and strategic planning within various sectors, such as business, government, and non-profit organisations. Graduates of this course are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex environmental issues and drive positive change within organisations and society at large.
Why choose
this course?
Our MSc is run by our Centre for Environment and Sustainability (CES), a pioneering hub for interdisciplinary environmental research and postgraduate teaching. Drawing upon the engineering, physical and social sciences, we’ll develop your technical and analytical skills to understand and resolve environmental problems.
This course will prepare you to join a new generation of environment and sustainability professionals ready to tackle the challenges ahead through the application of inter-disciplinary approaches, strategic thinking and analysis.
Accreditation
What you will study
This MSc will provide you with both theoretical and practical knowledge for evaluating the technical, social, economic and organisational elements of environmental problems.
You’ll be taught how to apply life-cycle assessment thinking and other analytical methods to understand how resources are used, and how to manage materials and waste.
You’ll also learn about anticipating and responding to future policy developments and market pressures, enabling you to develop impressive problem-solving and decision-making skills.
The skills you’ll gain on our course are much sought after by environmental and consultancy employers. They can also provide you with a direct route to the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment graduate membership, and the Institution of Environmental Sciences student membership.
Professional recognition
MSc - Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES)
Accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) for the purpose of eligibility to apply for associate membership.
MSc - Institution of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA).
Accredited by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA) for the purpose of eligibility to apply for graduate membership
Guest lecturers
Several high-profile guest lecturers help teach on some of the modules. We make maximum use of guest lecturers, drawing on the practical skills and experience of major experts from government and industry to complement the theoretical components of the modules offered.
Recent guest speakers have come from leading organisations such as:
- Ardent Consulting Engineers
- Aviva Investors
- Climate Action
- Ikea
- Keller
- Modulaire Group
- Natural England
- NHS Property Services
- Sony Computer Entertainment
- Surrey Wildlife Trust
- United Nations Environment Programme
- WRAP.
The extensive expertise of CES academics and researchers is also drawn upon in modules.
Professor Tim Jackson, adviser to the government and international bodies and author of the seminal book, Prosperity without Growth: Economics for a Finite Planet, lectures on some CES modules.
Both full-time and part-time students must complete five compulsory modules and four elective modules by the end of their MSc. The dissertation forms one of the compulsory modules. You can start this MSc at the beginning of either the first semester in September or the second semester in February.
The academic year begins with an induction week when students are introduced to the University and full-time students choose their elective modules. If you’re a part-time student, you can enrol in modules closer to the time you wish to take a module.
You will work on your dissertation in Semester 2 and in the summer if you started your course in September, or during the summer and in Semester 1 if you started your course in February. You’re free to choose your own dissertation topic and a series of seminar events will be held to help you refine your ideas and make a start. Most students choose topics related to issues or ideas encountered in the taught modules, or in a professional context, which relates to environment or sustainability. You’ll be allocated a dissertation supervisor to help guide you through the dissertation process.
The structure of our programmes follows clear educational aims that are tailored to each programme. These are all outlined in the programme specifications which include further details such as the learning outcomes:
Modules
Modules listed are indicative, reflecting the information available at the time of publication. Modules are subject to teaching availability, student demand and/or class size caps.
The University operates a credit framework for all taught programmes based on a 15-credit tariff, meaning all modules are comprised of multiples of 15 credits, up to a maximum of 120 credits.
Course options
Year 1
Semester 1
Compulsory
This module provides an overview of the environmental sciences which underpin sustainable development. It explores theoretical concepts from the physical and natural sciences and considers their relevance for sustainable development. These include ecological systems and ecosystem services, biodiversity and biodiversity loss, environmental measurements and indicators, agriculture and pollution impacts, and climate change and energy. Students will explore how to conduct an environmental risk assessment in a real-life scenario, and learn about enacting environmental policy at international, national and local levels.
View full module detailsThe dominant approach towards identifying, documenting and minimising the effects an organisation has on its specific and the wider (physical and to some extent social) environment is originated in the Total Quality Management (TQM) Movement. Auditing as the systematic process of performance evaluation against pre-set standards, as well the need to embed all activities into a contrived system of managing activities are at the heart of environmental management. They are also at the heart of this module, which has the purpose of introducing environmental auditing and environmental management systems in a practical, informative and useful manner. The course will explore the dominant, practical and topical concerns surrounding environmental auditing and environmental management systems. It is one of the components required for the Associate Membership of IEMA.
View full module detailsThis module provides a trans-disciplinary exposition and discussion of the core concepts of Sustainable Development, covering economic, political, ethical, social and ecological dimensions. It also reflects on the real-life application of the concept in organisations across sectors and scales, focusing on policies, strategies, performance and governance. It is aimed at a wide range of students and is suitable as a foundation for students who have not previously studied sustainability. It provides a grounding to the concepts but also raises awareness of the leading-edge challenges in the integration and implementation of sustainable development in reality.
View full module detailsOptional
When considering how to reduce the environmental impacts of a product, a service, an organisation, a household or even a nation, it is vital to take a life cycle approach. A life cycle approach considers the environmental impact over the full life cycle of the product– from its design, raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, consumption and then disposal or recycling at the end of the product’s life. In this module we introduce participants to life cycle thinking, the concept of the circular economy, life cycle management and related environmental systems analysis approaches. We consider how such approaches can help inform sustainability trade-offs, thus leading to better-informed decisions.
View full module detailsThis is an elective module normally only available for full-time MSc students, and is intended to complement the students’ academic work with valuable practical experience in industry, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGO) or environmental research centers. The Internship offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on and meaningful work experience, learn how to work co-operatively with others, obtain a better perspective of careers in the environmental and sustainability field and enhance employment opportunities. Students will work on specific projects at, or in association with, their internship organisation and will have the opportunity to use and test some of the analytical skills they acquired from their MSc programme. NOTE on overall student workload: Independent Learning Hours at 225 reflects standard University contract hours per week x 6 weeks), Lecture and Seminar hours are 2 and 4 respectively. These 231 hours reflect a supervised, experiential learning module delivered as an Internship placement over an equivalent 6 weeks full-time with an outside organisation. While the hours differ from the standard150 hours per 15 credit module, the nature and value of the experience is equivalent to a standard module but is acquired over a somewhat longer period of immersion. This has proved extremely popular with students, is highly valuable/appreciated re: future career prospects, is an outstanding opportunity to reflect broadly on the learning experience from their whole MSc course, and affords a unique observation of how sustainability knowledge applies in practice. We strongly support this module and its equivalence in learning experience to other ‘typical’ HFEQ Level 7 modules
View full module detailsThe course evaluates and discusses the way environmental and social concerns have affected organisations in the private sector, and how such organisations have affected the content, shape and direction of the public debate. Particular emphasis will be paid to corporate sustainability strategies, the distribution and organisation of roles within an organisation, the contribution of different departments, as well as the industrial perspective towards industrial ecology and sustainable consumption.
View full module detailsSemester 2
Compulsory
The module provides study of the law relevant to environmental pollution.
View full module detailsOptional
This course will introduce the basic insights of ecological economics – that is an economics grounded in ecological realities - and situate these in the context of historical and current debates about economics and prosperity on a finite planet.
View full module detailsThis is an elective module normally only available for full-time MSc students, and is intended to complement the students’ academic work with valuable practical experience in industry, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGO) or environmental research centers. The Internship offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on and meaningful work experience, learn how to work co-operatively with others, obtain a better perspective of careers in the environmental and sustainability field and enhance employment opportunities. Students will work on specific projects at, or in association with, their internship organisation and will have the opportunity to use and test some of the analytical skills they acquired from their MSc programme. NOTE on overall student workload: Independent Learning Hours at 225 reflects standard University contract hours per week x 6 weeks), Lecture and Seminar hours are 2 and 4 respectively. These 231 hours reflect a supervised, experiential learning module delivered as an Internship placement over an equivalent 6 weeks full-time with an outside organisation. While the hours differ from the standard150 hours per 15 credit module, the nature and value of the experience is equivalent to a standard module but is acquired over a somewhat longer period of immersion. This has proved extremely popular with students, is highly valuable/appreciated re: future career prospects, is an outstanding opportunity to reflect broadly on the learning experience from their whole MSc course, and affords a unique observation of how sustainability knowledge applies in practice. We strongly support this module and its equivalence in learning experience to other ‘typical’ HFEQ Level 7 modules
View full module detailsEnergy use and the systems put in place to supply it are responsible for the majority of the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide and hence much climate change policy is directed towards the energy sector. Energy is also central to economic development and social welfare and thus energy security and cost minimisation are high on national policy agendas. Energy markets throughout the world are also evolving rapidly, with privatisation, competition, market structure and regulation remaining prominent issues in the UK, Europe and internationally. The range of challenges for energy policy is diverse and exciting. This Module focuses on the transitions needed from the current situations in energy use, supply, markets and policy to those required as part of a long term, sustainable, low carbon energy system. The sessions will introduce the range of low carbon energy options including energy efficiency, energy storge, renewables, nuclear and carbon capture and storage. The module will explore different low-carbon scenarios and policies and how these could fit with the Sustainable Development Goals, and what barriers maybe encountered along the route to a just transition, in both the global North and South.
View full module detailsLife Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a robust and systematic methodology to evaluate and analyse environmental impacts of a product or service system across its whole life cycle. This module aims to develop skills in the LCA methodology by providing in-depth training on LCA methodology, and practical experience of doing an LCA on SimaPro software.
View full module detailsThis module introduces students to psychological perspectives on understanding and addressing environmental and sustainability challenges. The module provides an overview of theoretical formulations and research evidence related to 1) people’s understandings and perceptions of environmental risks, 2) environmental and materialistic values, 3) environment and wellbeing, and 4) pro-environmental behaviour change. The module is based on the research-practitioner model and aims to enable students to develop an understanding of how psychological research can help tackle environmental challenges by drawing on empirical research evidence. By the end of the module students should have an advanced understanding of some of the principles and theoretical and methodological developments in the area, and understand the value of this knowledge for helping to tackle environmental challenges.
View full module detailsSemester 1 & 2
Compulsory
The Dissertation module provides students with an opportunity to explore a key aspect of environmental management or sustainable development in depth. By applying the knowledge, skills and expertise developed in their degree students undertake original research to answer a research question or prove a hypothesis. The research process typically involves the review of the relevant literature, developing a research methodology, data collection (or acquisition of an existing data set), data analysis and reflection. Students are encouraged to consider and apply interdisciplinary approaches in their research where appropriate, thus crossing the boundaries between disciplines to address a problem which can be better understood by applying combining research approaches from more than one discipline. Students are encouraged to identify their own dissertation topic, however the academic team may also suggest topics in their areas of expertise. Once a topic has been approved students will be assigned a supervisor with sufficient experience and academic background to provide the necessary guidance and support.
View full module detailsOptional modules for Year 1 (full-time) - FHEQ Level 7
Students are to take four optional modules.
Unstructured years
Semester 1
Compulsory
This module provides an overview of the environmental sciences which underpin sustainable development. It explores theoretical concepts from the physical and natural sciences and considers their relevance for sustainable development. These include ecological systems and ecosystem services, biodiversity and biodiversity loss, environmental measurements and indicators, agriculture and pollution impacts, and climate change and energy. Students will explore how to conduct an environmental risk assessment in a real-life scenario, and learn about enacting environmental policy at international, national and local levels.
View full module detailsThe dominant approach towards identifying, documenting and minimising the effects an organisation has on its specific and the wider (physical and to some extent social) environment is originated in the Total Quality Management (TQM) Movement. Auditing as the systematic process of performance evaluation against pre-set standards, as well the need to embed all activities into a contrived system of managing activities are at the heart of environmental management. They are also at the heart of this module, which has the purpose of introducing environmental auditing and environmental management systems in a practical, informative and useful manner. The course will explore the dominant, practical and topical concerns surrounding environmental auditing and environmental management systems. It is one of the components required for the Associate Membership of IEMA.
View full module detailsThis module provides a trans-disciplinary exposition and discussion of the core concepts of Sustainable Development, covering economic, political, ethical, social and ecological dimensions. It also reflects on the real-life application of the concept in organisations across sectors and scales, focusing on policies, strategies, performance and governance. It is aimed at a wide range of students and is suitable as a foundation for students who have not previously studied sustainability. It provides a grounding to the concepts but also raises awareness of the leading-edge challenges in the integration and implementation of sustainable development in reality.
View full module detailsOptional
When considering how to reduce the environmental impacts of a product, a service, an organisation, a household or even a nation, it is vital to take a life cycle approach. A life cycle approach considers the environmental impact over the full life cycle of the product– from its design, raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, consumption and then disposal or recycling at the end of the product’s life. In this module we introduce participants to life cycle thinking, the concept of the circular economy, life cycle management and related environmental systems analysis approaches. We consider how such approaches can help inform sustainability trade-offs, thus leading to better-informed decisions.
View full module detailsThis is an elective module normally only available for full-time MSc students, and is intended to complement the students’ academic work with valuable practical experience in industry, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGO) or environmental research centers. The Internship offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on and meaningful work experience, learn how to work co-operatively with others, obtain a better perspective of careers in the environmental and sustainability field and enhance employment opportunities. Students will work on specific projects at, or in association with, their internship organisation and will have the opportunity to use and test some of the analytical skills they acquired from their MSc programme. NOTE on overall student workload: Independent Learning Hours at 225 reflects standard University contract hours per week x 6 weeks), Lecture and Seminar hours are 2 and 4 respectively. These 231 hours reflect a supervised, experiential learning module delivered as an Internship placement over an equivalent 6 weeks full-time with an outside organisation. While the hours differ from the standard150 hours per 15 credit module, the nature and value of the experience is equivalent to a standard module but is acquired over a somewhat longer period of immersion. This has proved extremely popular with students, is highly valuable/appreciated re: future career prospects, is an outstanding opportunity to reflect broadly on the learning experience from their whole MSc course, and affords a unique observation of how sustainability knowledge applies in practice. We strongly support this module and its equivalence in learning experience to other ‘typical’ HFEQ Level 7 modules
View full module detailsThe course evaluates and discusses the way environmental and social concerns have affected organisations in the private sector, and how such organisations have affected the content, shape and direction of the public debate. Particular emphasis will be paid to corporate sustainability strategies, the distribution and organisation of roles within an organisation, the contribution of different departments, as well as the industrial perspective towards industrial ecology and sustainable consumption.
View full module detailsSemester 2
Compulsory
The module provides study of the law relevant to environmental pollution.
View full module detailsOptional
Energy use and the systems put in place to supply it are responsible for the majority of the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide and hence much climate change policy is directed towards the energy sector. Energy is also central to economic development and social welfare and thus energy security and cost minimisation are high on national policy agendas. Energy markets throughout the world are also evolving rapidly, with privatisation, competition, market structure and regulation remaining prominent issues in the UK, Europe and internationally. The range of challenges for energy policy is diverse and exciting. This Module focuses on the transitions needed from the current situations in energy use, supply, markets and policy to those required as part of a long term, sustainable, low carbon energy system. The sessions will introduce the range of low carbon energy options including energy efficiency, energy storge, renewables, nuclear and carbon capture and storage. The module will explore different low-carbon scenarios and policies and how these could fit with the Sustainable Development Goals, and what barriers maybe encountered along the route to a just transition, in both the global North and South.
View full module detailsThis course will introduce the basic insights of ecological economics – that is an economics grounded in ecological realities - and situate these in the context of historical and current debates about economics and prosperity on a finite planet.
View full module detailsThis is an elective module normally only available for full-time MSc students, and is intended to complement the students’ academic work with valuable practical experience in industry, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGO) or environmental research centers. The Internship offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on and meaningful work experience, learn how to work co-operatively with others, obtain a better perspective of careers in the environmental and sustainability field and enhance employment opportunities. Students will work on specific projects at, or in association with, their internship organisation and will have the opportunity to use and test some of the analytical skills they acquired from their MSc programme. NOTE on overall student workload: Independent Learning Hours at 225 reflects standard University contract hours per week x 6 weeks), Lecture and Seminar hours are 2 and 4 respectively. These 231 hours reflect a supervised, experiential learning module delivered as an Internship placement over an equivalent 6 weeks full-time with an outside organisation. While the hours differ from the standard150 hours per 15 credit module, the nature and value of the experience is equivalent to a standard module but is acquired over a somewhat longer period of immersion. This has proved extremely popular with students, is highly valuable/appreciated re: future career prospects, is an outstanding opportunity to reflect broadly on the learning experience from their whole MSc course, and affords a unique observation of how sustainability knowledge applies in practice. We strongly support this module and its equivalence in learning experience to other ‘typical’ HFEQ Level 7 modules
View full module detailsLife Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a robust and systematic methodology to evaluate and analyse environmental impacts of a product or service system across its whole life cycle. This module aims to develop skills in the LCA methodology by providing in-depth training on LCA methodology, and practical experience of doing an LCA on SimaPro software.
View full module detailsThis module introduces students to psychological perspectives on understanding and addressing environmental and sustainability challenges. The module provides an overview of theoretical formulations and research evidence related to 1) people’s understandings and perceptions of environmental risks, 2) environmental and materialistic values, 3) environment and wellbeing, and 4) pro-environmental behaviour change. The module is based on the research-practitioner model and aims to enable students to develop an understanding of how psychological research can help tackle environmental challenges by drawing on empirical research evidence. By the end of the module students should have an advanced understanding of some of the principles and theoretical and methodological developments in the area, and understand the value of this knowledge for helping to tackle environmental challenges.
View full module detailsSemester 1 & 2
Compulsory
The Dissertation module provides students with an opportunity to explore a key aspect of environmental management or sustainable development in depth. By applying the knowledge, skills and expertise developed in their degree students undertake original research to answer a research question or prove a hypothesis. The research process typically involves the review of the relevant literature, developing a research methodology, data collection (or acquisition of an existing data set), data analysis and reflection. Students are encouraged to consider and apply interdisciplinary approaches in their research where appropriate, thus crossing the boundaries between disciplines to address a problem which can be better understood by applying combining research approaches from more than one discipline. Students are encouraged to identify their own dissertation topic, however the academic team may also suggest topics in their areas of expertise. Once a topic has been approved students will be assigned a supervisor with sufficient experience and academic background to provide the necessary guidance and support.
View full module detailsOptional modules for Unstructured (2-5 years) - FHEQ Level 7
Students are to take four optional modules.
Year 1
Semester 1
Compulsory
This module provides an overview of the environmental sciences which underpin sustainable development. It explores theoretical concepts from the physical and natural sciences and considers their relevance for sustainable development. These include ecological systems and ecosystem services, biodiversity and biodiversity loss, environmental measurements and indicators, agriculture and pollution impacts, and climate change and energy. Students will explore how to conduct an environmental risk assessment in a real-life scenario, and learn about enacting environmental policy at international, national and local levels.
View full module detailsThe dominant approach towards identifying, documenting and minimising the effects an organisation has on its specific and the wider (physical and to some extent social) environment is originated in the Total Quality Management (TQM) Movement. Auditing as the systematic process of performance evaluation against pre-set standards, as well the need to embed all activities into a contrived system of managing activities are at the heart of environmental management. They are also at the heart of this module, which has the purpose of introducing environmental auditing and environmental management systems in a practical, informative and useful manner. The course will explore the dominant, practical and topical concerns surrounding environmental auditing and environmental management systems. It is one of the components required for the Associate Membership of IEMA.
View full module detailsThis module provides a trans-disciplinary exposition and discussion of the core concepts of Sustainable Development, covering economic, political, ethical, social and ecological dimensions. It also reflects on the real-life application of the concept in organisations across sectors and scales, focusing on policies, strategies, performance and governance. It is aimed at a wide range of students and is suitable as a foundation for students who have not previously studied sustainability. It provides a grounding to the concepts but also raises awareness of the leading-edge challenges in the integration and implementation of sustainable development in reality.
View full module detailsOptional
When considering how to reduce the environmental impacts of a product, a service, an organisation, a household or even a nation, it is vital to take a life cycle approach. A life cycle approach considers the environmental impact over the full life cycle of the product– from its design, raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, consumption and then disposal or recycling at the end of the product’s life. In this module we introduce participants to life cycle thinking, the concept of the circular economy, life cycle management and related environmental systems analysis approaches. We consider how such approaches can help inform sustainability trade-offs, thus leading to better-informed decisions.
View full module detailsThis is an elective module normally only available for full-time MSc students, and is intended to complement the students’ academic work with valuable practical experience in industry, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGO) or environmental research centers. The Internship offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on and meaningful work experience, learn how to work co-operatively with others, obtain a better perspective of careers in the environmental and sustainability field and enhance employment opportunities. Students will work on specific projects at, or in association with, their internship organisation and will have the opportunity to use and test some of the analytical skills they acquired from their MSc programme. NOTE on overall student workload: Independent Learning Hours at 225 reflects standard University contract hours per week x 6 weeks), Lecture and Seminar hours are 2 and 4 respectively. These 231 hours reflect a supervised, experiential learning module delivered as an Internship placement over an equivalent 6 weeks full-time with an outside organisation. While the hours differ from the standard150 hours per 15 credit module, the nature and value of the experience is equivalent to a standard module but is acquired over a somewhat longer period of immersion. This has proved extremely popular with students, is highly valuable/appreciated re: future career prospects, is an outstanding opportunity to reflect broadly on the learning experience from their whole MSc course, and affords a unique observation of how sustainability knowledge applies in practice. We strongly support this module and its equivalence in learning experience to other ‘typical’ HFEQ Level 7 modules
View full module detailsThe course evaluates and discusses the way environmental and social concerns have affected organisations in the private sector, and how such organisations have affected the content, shape and direction of the public debate. Particular emphasis will be paid to corporate sustainability strategies, the distribution and organisation of roles within an organisation, the contribution of different departments, as well as the industrial perspective towards industrial ecology and sustainable consumption.
View full module detailsSemester 2
Compulsory
The module provides study of the law relevant to environmental pollution.
View full module detailsOptional
This course will introduce the basic insights of ecological economics – that is an economics grounded in ecological realities - and situate these in the context of historical and current debates about economics and prosperity on a finite planet.
View full module detailsThis is an elective module normally only available for full-time MSc students, and is intended to complement the students’ academic work with valuable practical experience in industry, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGO) or environmental research centers. The Internship offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on and meaningful work experience, learn how to work co-operatively with others, obtain a better perspective of careers in the environmental and sustainability field and enhance employment opportunities. Students will work on specific projects at, or in association with, their internship organisation and will have the opportunity to use and test some of the analytical skills they acquired from their MSc programme. NOTE on overall student workload: Independent Learning Hours at 225 reflects standard University contract hours per week x 6 weeks), Lecture and Seminar hours are 2 and 4 respectively. These 231 hours reflect a supervised, experiential learning module delivered as an Internship placement over an equivalent 6 weeks full-time with an outside organisation. While the hours differ from the standard150 hours per 15 credit module, the nature and value of the experience is equivalent to a standard module but is acquired over a somewhat longer period of immersion. This has proved extremely popular with students, is highly valuable/appreciated re: future career prospects, is an outstanding opportunity to reflect broadly on the learning experience from their whole MSc course, and affords a unique observation of how sustainability knowledge applies in practice. We strongly support this module and its equivalence in learning experience to other ‘typical’ HFEQ Level 7 modules
View full module detailsEnergy use and the systems put in place to supply it are responsible for the majority of the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide and hence much climate change policy is directed towards the energy sector. Energy is also central to economic development and social welfare and thus energy security and cost minimisation are high on national policy agendas. Energy markets throughout the world are also evolving rapidly, with privatisation, competition, market structure and regulation remaining prominent issues in the UK, Europe and internationally. The range of challenges for energy policy is diverse and exciting. This Module focuses on the transitions needed from the current situations in energy use, supply, markets and policy to those required as part of a long term, sustainable, low carbon energy system. The sessions will introduce the range of low carbon energy options including energy efficiency, energy storge, renewables, nuclear and carbon capture and storage. The module will explore different low-carbon scenarios and policies and how these could fit with the Sustainable Development Goals, and what barriers maybe encountered along the route to a just transition, in both the global North and South.
View full module detailsLife Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a robust and systematic methodology to evaluate and analyse environmental impacts of a product or service system across its whole life cycle. This module aims to develop skills in the LCA methodology by providing in-depth training on LCA methodology, and practical experience of doing an LCA on SimaPro software.
View full module detailsThis module introduces students to psychological perspectives on understanding and addressing environmental and sustainability challenges. The module provides an overview of theoretical formulations and research evidence related to 1) people’s understandings and perceptions of environmental risks, 2) environmental and materialistic values, 3) environment and wellbeing, and 4) pro-environmental behaviour change. The module is based on the research-practitioner model and aims to enable students to develop an understanding of how psychological research can help tackle environmental challenges by drawing on empirical research evidence. By the end of the module students should have an advanced understanding of some of the principles and theoretical and methodological developments in the area, and understand the value of this knowledge for helping to tackle environmental challenges.
View full module detailsSemester 1 & 2
Compulsory
The Dissertation module provides students with an opportunity to explore a key aspect of environmental management or sustainable development in depth. By applying the knowledge, skills and expertise developed in their degree students undertake original research to answer a research question or prove a hypothesis. The research process typically involves the review of the relevant literature, developing a research methodology, data collection (or acquisition of an existing data set), data analysis and reflection. Students are encouraged to consider and apply interdisciplinary approaches in their research where appropriate, thus crossing the boundaries between disciplines to address a problem which can be better understood by applying combining research approaches from more than one discipline. Students are encouraged to identify their own dissertation topic, however the academic team may also suggest topics in their areas of expertise. Once a topic has been approved students will be assigned a supervisor with sufficient experience and academic background to provide the necessary guidance and support.
View full module detailsOptional modules for Year 1 (full-time) - FHEQ Level 7
Students are to take four optional modules.
Unstructured years
Semester 1
Compulsory
This module provides an overview of the environmental sciences which underpin sustainable development. It explores theoretical concepts from the physical and natural sciences and considers their relevance for sustainable development. These include ecological systems and ecosystem services, biodiversity and biodiversity loss, environmental measurements and indicators, agriculture and pollution impacts, and climate change and energy. Students will explore how to conduct an environmental risk assessment in a real-life scenario, and learn about enacting environmental policy at international, national and local levels.
View full module detailsThe dominant approach towards identifying, documenting and minimising the effects an organisation has on its specific and the wider (physical and to some extent social) environment is originated in the Total Quality Management (TQM) Movement. Auditing as the systematic process of performance evaluation against pre-set standards, as well the need to embed all activities into a contrived system of managing activities are at the heart of environmental management. They are also at the heart of this module, which has the purpose of introducing environmental auditing and environmental management systems in a practical, informative and useful manner. The course will explore the dominant, practical and topical concerns surrounding environmental auditing and environmental management systems. It is one of the components required for the Associate Membership of IEMA.
View full module detailsThis module provides a trans-disciplinary exposition and discussion of the core concepts of Sustainable Development, covering economic, political, ethical, social and ecological dimensions. It also reflects on the real-life application of the concept in organisations across sectors and scales, focusing on policies, strategies, performance and governance. It is aimed at a wide range of students and is suitable as a foundation for students who have not previously studied sustainability. It provides a grounding to the concepts but also raises awareness of the leading-edge challenges in the integration and implementation of sustainable development in reality.
View full module detailsOptional
When considering how to reduce the environmental impacts of a product, a service, an organisation, a household or even a nation, it is vital to take a life cycle approach. A life cycle approach considers the environmental impact over the full life cycle of the product– from its design, raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, consumption and then disposal or recycling at the end of the product’s life. In this module we introduce participants to life cycle thinking, the concept of the circular economy, life cycle management and related environmental systems analysis approaches. We consider how such approaches can help inform sustainability trade-offs, thus leading to better-informed decisions.
View full module detailsThis is an elective module normally only available for full-time MSc students, and is intended to complement the students’ academic work with valuable practical experience in industry, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGO) or environmental research centers. The Internship offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on and meaningful work experience, learn how to work co-operatively with others, obtain a better perspective of careers in the environmental and sustainability field and enhance employment opportunities. Students will work on specific projects at, or in association with, their internship organisation and will have the opportunity to use and test some of the analytical skills they acquired from their MSc programme. NOTE on overall student workload: Independent Learning Hours at 225 reflects standard University contract hours per week x 6 weeks), Lecture and Seminar hours are 2 and 4 respectively. These 231 hours reflect a supervised, experiential learning module delivered as an Internship placement over an equivalent 6 weeks full-time with an outside organisation. While the hours differ from the standard150 hours per 15 credit module, the nature and value of the experience is equivalent to a standard module but is acquired over a somewhat longer period of immersion. This has proved extremely popular with students, is highly valuable/appreciated re: future career prospects, is an outstanding opportunity to reflect broadly on the learning experience from their whole MSc course, and affords a unique observation of how sustainability knowledge applies in practice. We strongly support this module and its equivalence in learning experience to other ‘typical’ HFEQ Level 7 modules
View full module detailsThe course evaluates and discusses the way environmental and social concerns have affected organisations in the private sector, and how such organisations have affected the content, shape and direction of the public debate. Particular emphasis will be paid to corporate sustainability strategies, the distribution and organisation of roles within an organisation, the contribution of different departments, as well as the industrial perspective towards industrial ecology and sustainable consumption.
View full module detailsSemester 2
Compulsory
The module provides study of the law relevant to environmental pollution.
View full module detailsOptional
Energy use and the systems put in place to supply it are responsible for the majority of the world’s emissions of carbon dioxide and hence much climate change policy is directed towards the energy sector. Energy is also central to economic development and social welfare and thus energy security and cost minimisation are high on national policy agendas. Energy markets throughout the world are also evolving rapidly, with privatisation, competition, market structure and regulation remaining prominent issues in the UK, Europe and internationally. The range of challenges for energy policy is diverse and exciting. This Module focuses on the transitions needed from the current situations in energy use, supply, markets and policy to those required as part of a long term, sustainable, low carbon energy system. The sessions will introduce the range of low carbon energy options including energy efficiency, energy storge, renewables, nuclear and carbon capture and storage. The module will explore different low-carbon scenarios and policies and how these could fit with the Sustainable Development Goals, and what barriers maybe encountered along the route to a just transition, in both the global North and South.
View full module detailsThis course will introduce the basic insights of ecological economics – that is an economics grounded in ecological realities - and situate these in the context of historical and current debates about economics and prosperity on a finite planet.
View full module detailsThis is an elective module normally only available for full-time MSc students, and is intended to complement the students’ academic work with valuable practical experience in industry, government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGO) or environmental research centers. The Internship offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on and meaningful work experience, learn how to work co-operatively with others, obtain a better perspective of careers in the environmental and sustainability field and enhance employment opportunities. Students will work on specific projects at, or in association with, their internship organisation and will have the opportunity to use and test some of the analytical skills they acquired from their MSc programme. NOTE on overall student workload: Independent Learning Hours at 225 reflects standard University contract hours per week x 6 weeks), Lecture and Seminar hours are 2 and 4 respectively. These 231 hours reflect a supervised, experiential learning module delivered as an Internship placement over an equivalent 6 weeks full-time with an outside organisation. While the hours differ from the standard150 hours per 15 credit module, the nature and value of the experience is equivalent to a standard module but is acquired over a somewhat longer period of immersion. This has proved extremely popular with students, is highly valuable/appreciated re: future career prospects, is an outstanding opportunity to reflect broadly on the learning experience from their whole MSc course, and affords a unique observation of how sustainability knowledge applies in practice. We strongly support this module and its equivalence in learning experience to other ‘typical’ HFEQ Level 7 modules
View full module detailsLife Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a robust and systematic methodology to evaluate and analyse environmental impacts of a product or service system across its whole life cycle. This module aims to develop skills in the LCA methodology by providing in-depth training on LCA methodology, and practical experience of doing an LCA on SimaPro software.
View full module detailsThis module introduces students to psychological perspectives on understanding and addressing environmental and sustainability challenges. The module provides an overview of theoretical formulations and research evidence related to 1) people’s understandings and perceptions of environmental risks, 2) environmental and materialistic values, 3) environment and wellbeing, and 4) pro-environmental behaviour change. The module is based on the research-practitioner model and aims to enable students to develop an understanding of how psychological research can help tackle environmental challenges by drawing on empirical research evidence. By the end of the module students should have an advanced understanding of some of the principles and theoretical and methodological developments in the area, and understand the value of this knowledge for helping to tackle environmental challenges.
View full module detailsSemester 1 & 2
Compulsory
The Dissertation module provides students with an opportunity to explore a key aspect of environmental management or sustainable development in depth. By applying the knowledge, skills and expertise developed in their degree students undertake original research to answer a research question or prove a hypothesis. The research process typically involves the review of the relevant literature, developing a research methodology, data collection (or acquisition of an existing data set), data analysis and reflection. Students are encouraged to consider and apply interdisciplinary approaches in their research where appropriate, thus crossing the boundaries between disciplines to address a problem which can be better understood by applying combining research approaches from more than one discipline. Students are encouraged to identify their own dissertation topic, however the academic team may also suggest topics in their areas of expertise. Once a topic has been approved students will be assigned a supervisor with sufficient experience and academic background to provide the necessary guidance and support.
View full module detailsOptional modules for Unstructured (2-5 years) - FHEQ Level 7
Students are to take four optional modules.
General course information
Contact hours
Contact hours can vary across our modules. Full details of the contact hours for each module are available from the University of Surrey's module catalogue. See the modules section for more information.
Timetable
Course timetables are normally available one month before the start of the semester.
Each module on this course is taught on an intensive modular basis. There is pre-reading to do for each module and, on occasion, a pre-module assessment, followed by an intensive teaching week. During this week, you will have several classes each day, from approximately 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Post-module coursework is to be completed over the four-week period after the intensive week.
View our code of practice for the scheduling of teaching and assessment (PDF).
Location
Stag Hill is the University's main campus and where the majority of our courses are taught.
We offer careers information, advice and guidance to all students whilst studying with us, which is extended to our alumni for three years after leaving the University.
Graduates of this masters programme go on to pursue a diverse range of careers, developing and implementing environmental strategy in corporations, governments and charities.
Studying on this MSc could lead to roles such as:
- Energy efficiency officer for a local government
- Environmental officer in a multinational chemical company
- Environment consultant for an engineering consultancy
- Sustainability adviser for a multinational company
- Programme officer with a sustainability charity.
UK qualifications
A minimum of a 2:2 UK honours degree, or a recognised equivalent international qualification.
Relevant work experience may also be considered.
English language requirements
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall with 6.0 in writing and 5.5 in each other element.
These are the English language qualifications and levels that we can accept.
If you do not currently meet the level required for your programme, we offer intensive pre-sessional English language courses, designed to take you to the level of English ability and skill required for your studies here.
Recognition of prior learning
We recognise that many students enter their course with valuable knowledge and skills developed through a range of ways.
If this applies to you, the recognition of prior learning process may mean you can join a course without the formal entry requirements, or at a point appropriate to your previous learning and experience.
There are restrictions for some courses and fees may be payable for certain claims. Please contact the Admissions team with any queries.
Placements
Industrial placement
Some full-time students complete an industrial placement as one of their elective modules. This enables you to spend six to 12 weeks working for a company or a non-governmental organisation, doing the type of work you’ll aim to find after graduation.
Examples of organisations at which recent industrial placements have taken place include:
- Brodie Consulting Ltd
- Climate Bonds Initiative
- Derbyshire NHS
- Global Action Plan, London
- Guildford Environmental Forum
- Hammersmith & Fulham Council
- Hubbub
- Klimato, Sweden
- LC Energy Ltd
- Modulaire Group Holdings, Ltd, London
- Surrey County Council.
Study and work abroad
There may be opportunities to acquire valuable European experience by working or conducting research abroad during your degree or shortly afterwards.
Scholarships and bursaries
Discover what scholarships and bursaries are available to support your studies.
Fees
Explore UKCISA’s website for more information if you are unsure whether you are a UK or overseas student. View the list of fees for all postgraduate courses.
February 2025 - Full-time - 1 year
- UK
- £11,900
- Overseas
- £26,000
February 2025 - Part-time - 5 years
- UK
- £1,300 per 15 credits
- Overseas
- £2,800 per 15 credits
September 2025 - Full-time - 1 year
- UK
- £12,400
- Overseas
- £24,900
September 2025 - Part-time - 5 years
- UK
- £1,400 per 15 credits
- Overseas
- £2,800 per 15 credits
- For the unstructured self-paced part-time course, the fee shown above is per 15 credits for the 2024-25 academic year
- The dissertation module is charged as a 15-credit module for fee purposes
- These fees apply to students commencing study in the academic year 2025-26 only. Fees for new starters are reviewed annually.
Payment schedule
- Students with Tuition Fee Loan: the Student Loans Company pay fees in line with their schedule (students on an unstructured self-paced part-time course are not eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan).
- Students without a Tuition Fee Loan: pay their fees either in full at the beginning of the programme or in two instalments as follows:
- 50% payable 10 days after the invoice date (expected to be October/November of each academic year)
- 50% in January of the same academic year.
- Students on part-time programmes where fees are paid on a modular basis: cannot pay fees by instalment.
- Sponsored students: must provide us with valid sponsorship information that covers the period of study.
The exact date(s) will be on invoices.
Additional costs
Commuting (local travel expenses): Unable to specify amount - Potential travel costs for the dissertation if the student’s topic requires travel to case study sites.
Funding
You may be able to borrow money to help pay your tuition fees and support you with your living costs. Find out more about postgraduate student finance.
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We will continue to accept applications from UK students until 1 September 2024.
ApplyWe will continue to accept applications from UK students until 1 September 2024.
ApplyPlease note that we may have to close applications before the stated deadline if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We advise you to submit your application as soon as it is ready.
ApplyPlease note that we may have to close applications before the stated deadline if we receive a high volume of suitable applications. We advise you to submit your application as soon as it is ready.
ApplyAdmissions information
Once you apply, you can expect to hear back from us within 14 days. This might be with a decision on your application or with a request for further information.
Our code of practice for postgraduate admissions policy explains how the Admissions team considers applications and admits students. Read our postgraduate applicant guidance for more information on applying.
About the University of Surrey
Need more information?
Contact our Admissions team or talk to a current University of Surrey student online.
Terms and conditions
When you accept an offer to study at the University of Surrey, you are agreeing to follow our policies and procedures, student regulations, and terms and conditions.
We provide these terms and conditions in two stages:
- First when we make an offer.
- Second when students accept their offer and register to study with us (registration terms and conditions will vary depending on your course and academic year).
View our generic registration terms and conditions (PDF) for the 2023/24 academic year, as a guide on what to expect.
Disclaimer
This online prospectus has been published in advance of the academic year to which it applies.
Whilst we have done everything possible to ensure this information is accurate, some changes may happen between publishing and the start of the course.
It is important to check this website for any updates before you apply for a course with us. Read our full disclaimer.