Loughborough University

What you'll study

This master's combines physical science, engineering and socio-economic approaches to managing water under a changing climate. Core themes include hydrology and hydroclimatology, urban and catchment-scale water management, flood risk and coastal resilience, water quality and ecosystem services, and adaptation and governance. You will study quantitative tools such as hydrological and hydraulic modelling, remote sensing and GIS, and statistical methods for climate and water data analysis.

The programme typically consists of taught modules, a group or individual applied project, and a substantial research dissertation. Typical modules cover:

• Hydrology and water cycle processes
• Flood risk assessment and management (including urban drainage and coastal defences)
• Water resources planning and integrated catchment management
• Climate change impacts, adaptation and resilience planning
• Water quality, pollution control and ecosystem-based approaches
• Modelling tools: hydraulic/hydrological modelling, GIS and remote sensing
• Policy, governance and economics of water and climate resilience
• Research methods and data analytics for environmental systems

Teaching methods include lectures, practical computer labs, fieldwork, case studies and group design projects with industry or statutory partners. The dissertation offers an opportunity to conduct original research or an applied consultancy-style study, often with access to Loughborough's laboratory facilities and research groups.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant subject such as civil or environmental engineering, environmental science, geography, earth sciences, or a closely related discipline. Lower second-class (2:2) degrees may be considered where applicants can demonstrate significant relevant professional experience. Applicants with non-traditional backgrounds but strong quantitative skills and appropriate professional experience may also be considered.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University's English language requirements; evidence of an appropriate recognised English qualification is required. Applicants will submit academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining relevant experience and motivation, and references. Selection may also take into account relevant work experience and prior project work.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for roles in the public, private and third sectors that address water security and climate resilience. Typical career destinations include:

• Water resources and catchment managers for utilities and agencies
• Flood risk and coastal resilience practitioners working for consultancies or local authorities
• Environmental and climate resilience consultants
• Policy analysts and advisors in government, non-governmental organisations and international agencies
• Research and technical roles in environmental consultancies, engineering firms and research institutes
• Continued academic study (PhD) in hydrology, climate impacts or related fields

The programme's applied projects and industry links support employability by providing practical experience with modelling tools, data analysis and stakeholder engagement.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough offers strong interdisciplinary teaching across engineering, environmental sciences and geography, with research-active staff working on water, climate and resilience topics. Students benefit from modern laboratory and computing facilities, practical fieldwork opportunities and access to research groups specialising in hydrology, water quality and climate impacts.

The University maintains links with industry, water utilities, environmental consultancies and public agencies, enabling applied project collaborations and networking opportunities. The campus environment and centralised student support aim to provide a focused postgraduate experience with clear pathways into professional practice or further research.