Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme combines core engineering principles with development‑orientated topics to prepare students for practical work in water supply, sanitation and water resources management. Typical modules cover hydraulics and water supply engineering, sanitation and wastewater management, water resources and hydrology, and engineering design for small systems. Modules addressing policy and practice include governance and institutional frameworks, project planning and management, monitoring and evaluation, and community engagement and behaviour change.

Quantitative and technical skills are developed through modules in water and wastewater treatment processes, pipe network design and operation, and applied hydrology. Spatial analysis and data handling (including GIS) and research methods are taught to support planning and evidence‑based interventions. The programme culminates in a major research project or dissertation which allows students to investigate a practical problem or to develop a design, typically linked to their workplace or a development setting.

The distance format is delivered through the university's online learning environment, combining taught modules, tutor‑led seminars, practical assignment work and peer discussion. Students can normally study part‑time over a flexible period or full‑time where available, and the credit structure follows standard master's requirements with taught credits leading to a final dissertation or major project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a good honours degree (equivalent to a UK 2:1) in engineering, environmental science, civil engineering, or a related discipline. Applicants with a lower second class degree (2:2) may be considered if they can demonstrate substantial relevant professional experience in the water or development sectors.

Where applicants do not hold a traditional degree, significant practical experience combined with professional qualifications or demonstrable technical competence may be acceptable. All applicants should provide a personal statement outlining their reasons for study and, where applicable, employer support for part‑time study. References that speak to academic ability or professional competence are normally required.

As this is a distance programme taught in English, applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirement. Evidence such as an accepted English language test score or equivalent qualification is normally requested.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to technical and managerial roles across the water and development sectors. Typical career paths include positions in utilities and water service providers, national and local government water departments, international and local NGOs working in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and engineering and environmental consultancies.

Other options include roles in water resources management agencies, project management for infrastructure and development projects, technical advisory posts, monitoring and evaluation, and specialist consultancy in areas such as sanitation engineering or small‑scheme design. The programme also prepares graduates for further research or PhD study on topics related to water engineering and development.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough is home to experienced research and teaching groups focused on water, sanitation and development. The Water, Engineering and Development Centre (WEDC) has an established international reputation for applied education and capacity building in WASH and development‑orientated engineering. Distance students benefit from teaching that draws on practical case studies, cross‑disciplinary expertise and links with practitioners in low‑ and middle‑income countries.

The university supports distance learners through an online learning environment, academic supervision and access to research resources. Loughborough's strong engineering base, emphasis on applied problem solving and broad professional networks make it a suitable place to gain the technical, managerial and contextual skills needed to tackle water challenges in development settings.