Curtin University

What you'll study

This master’s program blends climate science, environmental management, policy analysis and practical skills for designing and implementing responses to the climate emergency. You study core topics such as the physical science of climate change, climate impacts and vulnerability assessment, adaptation planning, mitigation strategies and low-carbon transitions. The curriculum emphasises applied practice through modules on environmental policy and governance, climate risk assessment, community engagement, and sustainable development.

• Core modules (examples): Climate Science and Systems; Climate Change Impacts and Vulnerability; Climate Policy, Governance and Justice; Environmental Risk and Assessment; Adaptation Planning and Practice.
• Applied and methodological modules: Research Methods for Environment and Climate; Data Analysis and Modelling for Climate Applications; Environmental Economics and Project Appraisal.
• Capstone or major project: A practice-based capstone, industry-linked project or a thesis option that allows you to develop a substantial piece of applied work on mitigation, adaptation or community resilience.
• Skills developed: climate data interpretation, vulnerability and risk assessment, stakeholder engagement and communication, policy analysis, project design and evaluation, and interdisciplinary problem-solving.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as environmental science, geography, earth sciences, engineering, planning, social science or a related field. Applicants with substantial professional experience in an environmental or climate-related role may also be considered.

• A recognised undergraduate degree with a satisfactory academic record (requirements depend on the applicant’s country and prior institution).
• English language proficiency demonstrated by an accepted test or prior study in English if your previous qualification was not taught in English; specific score requirements depend on the university’s current policy.
• Supplementary information such as a CV, statement of purpose and, where relevant, reference letters or a portfolio of professional work may be requested to assess suitability for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles in government, industry, consultancy, non-government organisations and research institutions. The program’s applied focus equips students to translate scientific and policy knowledge into practical solutions for climate resilience and decarbonisation.

• Climate policy or program officer in local, state or national government agencies
• Adaptation and resilience planner for councils, utilities or infrastructure providers
• Environmental or climate consultant advising private sector clients on risk, mitigation and sustainability
• Sustainability or ESG (environmental, social and governance) specialist in corporate or finance sectors
• Program manager or researcher with NGOs, community organisations or international development agencies
• Pathway to further research (PhD) in climate science, adaptation or environmental policy

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin offers an applied, multidisciplinary approach to environment and climate education, combining scientific rigour with practical training and strong links to industry and government partners. The university emphasises hands-on learning, including fieldwork, data analysis and opportunities to undertake industry-aligned capstone projects that address real-world climate challenges.

Students benefit from access to Curtin’s research expertise and collaborative networks across environmental science, policy and engineering disciplines, and from flexible study options that cater to domestic and international students. The program is designed to equip graduates with the technical knowledge and practical capabilities needed to lead climate action in a variety of professional settings.