University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This taught master's covers core concepts in sustainability, environmental assessment and the science–policy interface alongside methods for applied research and evaluation. You will study a set of core modules that provide grounding in climate change science, environmental systems, sustainability theory and research methods, and choose optional modules to tailor the degree to technical, managerial or policy pathways.

• Core module topics — sustainability principles and governance; climate change impacts and adaptation; environmental assessment and monitoring; quantitative and qualitative research methods; project design and evaluation.
• Typical elective modules — sustainable urban systems; renewable energy and decarbonisation; environmental economics and policy; corporate social responsibility and sustainability reporting; GIS and spatial analysis for environmental management.
• Research project or dissertation — an independent research project supervised by academic staff. Projects commonly involve applied fieldwork, data analysis, policy appraisal or partnership work with industry or public-sector bodies.
• Practical learning — the programme emphasises applied skills: environmental impact assessment, life-cycle thinking, stakeholder engagement, sustainability indicators, and data handling. Fieldwork, lab sessions and opportunities for consultancy-style projects or placements are regularly integrated.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK upper-second class honours degree (2:1) or international equivalent in a relevant discipline such as environmental science, geography, engineering, economics, or another science/social science subject with demonstrable quantitative skills. Candidates with a lower second class degree (2:2) plus relevant work experience, or an appropriate professional qualification, may be considered.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University's English language standard for postgraduate study. Evidence of relevant professional experience, a personal statement outlining motivations and goals, and academic references are required as part of the admissions process.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme typically move into roles where technical environmental knowledge is combined with policy and management skills. Typical career paths include sustainability officer or manager, environmental consultant, climate change analyst, policy advisor in government or NGOs, corporate sustainability strategist, and roles in urban planning or natural resource management.

Other graduates pursue research or doctoral study in environmental sciences or sustainability-related social sciences. The degree also provides skills applicable to consultancy, environmental regulation, corporate reporting, and community-based sustainability initiatives.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

University of Strathclyde is a research-led institution with a strong practical orientation and established links to industry and public-sector partners in Scotland and beyond. The university’s location in Glasgow provides access to a vibrant urban environment and numerous organisations working on climate, energy and sustainable development.

The programme benefits from multidisciplinary teaching staff and close collaboration with research groups focused on urban sustainability, energy transition and environmental policy. Students gain hands-on experience through fieldwork, laboratory access and opportunities for applied projects or placements with external partners, helping to bridge academic learning and workplace practice.