City

What you'll study

This MRes is structured around advanced taught modules that prepare you for a sustained independent research project. Typical taught topics cover research methods and experimental design, sustainable systems modelling, lifecycle assessment and circular economy principles, low‑carbon energy and decarbonisation technologies, sustainable materials and design for resource efficiency, and the regulatory, economic and social dimensions of sustainability.

• Research methods and statistics: qualitative and quantitative methods, experimental planning, uncertainty analysis and data handling.
• Lifecycle assessment and circular economy: LCA methodology, materials flows, end‑of‑life strategies and design for reuse.
• Energy and low‑carbon systems: energy systems modelling, renewables integration, building and industrial decarbonisation options.
• Sustainable materials and design: material selection, eco‑design, resource efficiency and embodied carbon assessment.
• Policy, governance and socio‑technical aspects: policy instruments, standards, stakeholder engagement and ethics in sustainability.
• Major research project: an extended independent research dissertation supervised by academic staff, often involving experimental work, modelling or industry collaboration.

Teaching combines lectures, seminars, laboratory and modelling practicals, group coursework and one‑to‑one research supervision. Assessment typically includes coursework, project reports, presentations and the final research thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (2:1 or equivalent) in engineering, environmental science, materials science, or a closely related discipline. Candidates with a lower second class degree plus relevant professional experience may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English; commonly accepted evidence includes recognised language tests at the level normally required for postgraduate study (for example, an overall score with a minimum in each component). You should check City’s official entry guidance for precise English requirements and accepted certificates.

Selection is based on academic background, the quality of references, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, and where appropriate an interview with potential supervisors. Applicants proposing research projects with industry partners should include details of any employer support.

Career prospects

Graduates from this MRes typically proceed into research roles, industry R&D, consultancy, policy and technical leadership positions. Common career paths include:

• Research scientist or engineer in universities, public research institutes or private R&D departments.
• Environmental or sustainability consultant providing lifecycle assessment, carbon accounting and circular economy advice.
• Technical or project manager roles in renewable energy, built environment, transport or advanced manufacturing sectors.
• Policy analyst or advisor for government bodies, regulators or international organisations focused on decarbonisation and sustainability policy.
• Further academic study such as a PhD in sustainable engineering, energy systems or related fields.

The programme’s research emphasis and industry links help graduates develop the technical, analytical and communication skills employers seek when addressing complex sustainability challenges.

Why study at City

City, University of London has a strong applied engineering focus and is well connected to London’s professional and industrial ecosystem, offering opportunities for collaborative projects with industry, public sector organisations and research centres. The university hosts specialist laboratories and research groups working on energy, materials and environmental engineering, enabling hands‑on experimental and modelling work linked to current sustainability challenges.

Students benefit from research‑led teaching, close supervision for independent projects, and career support services that help with placements and employer engagement. Studying in London also gives ready access to government, regulatory bodies, consultancies and a wide range of employers in the sustainability and engineering sectors.