Keele University

What you'll study

This master's programme combines core principles of environmental science and sustainability with practical training in green technologies and systems thinking. Teaching mixes lectures, laboratory practicals, fieldwork across the Keele campus estate, project-based modules and an independent research or industry-linked dissertation.

• Core modules typically cover sustainability theory and policy, environmental change and assessment methods, lifecycle assessment and resource management, and low-carbon/renewable energy technologies.
• Technical modules commonly address topics such as environmental monitoring and data analysis, energy systems and storage, waste and materials management, and sustainable design and engineering principles.
• Skills and methods modules develop quantitative skills (statistics, modelling), environmental impact assessment, GIS and remote sensing, and project management for sustainability initiatives.
• Research project or dissertation gives you the opportunity to undertake an extended piece of independent work, often involving laboratory or field investigation, technology demonstration or a consultancy-style project with an external partner.
• Optional modules allow you to tailor the degree with subjects such as climate adaptation, biodiversity and conservation, sustainable business practice, or innovation in green technology, depending on availability.

Assessment is by a combination of coursework, practical reports, presentations, exams and the final dissertation or project. The programme emphasises real-world problem solving and transferable skills for working in multi-disciplinary teams.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a UK upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or international equivalent in a relevant subject such as environmental science, geography, biology, chemistry, earth sciences, engineering or a closely related discipline. Applicants with a lower second-class degree (2:2) plus relevant professional experience may be considered on an individual basis.

Relevant work experience, professional qualifications or evidence of research potential can strengthen an application. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirements, typically demonstrated by a recognised English language qualification at the required level.

Where appropriate, candidates may be asked to submit a personal statement outlining interests and experience in sustainability and green technology, and academic references.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a broad range of roles across the public, private and non-profit sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Environmental or sustainability consultant, advising organisations on carbon reduction, resource efficiency and regulatory compliance.
• Environmental manager or sustainability officer within industry, local authorities, housing providers or utilities.
• Technical roles in renewable energy firms, energy system operators, waste management and circular economy enterprises.
• Policy or planning roles related to climate change adaptation, environmental regulation and sustainable infrastructure.
• Research and development positions in green technology, or further postgraduate study (PhD) in sustainability, environmental science or engineering.

The programme’s combination of technical knowledge, practical skills and project experience is designed to make graduates attractive to employers seeking staff who can bridge science, engineering and policy.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers an interdisciplinary learning environment with strengths in environmental research and an emphasis on applied, hands-on training. The university’s campus provides accessible fieldwork opportunities and teaching laboratories where students can gain practical experience with environmental monitoring, data analysis and technology demonstration.

Students benefit from small-group teaching, research-active staff and opportunities to collaborate on industry-linked projects or placements. Keele’s focus on cross-disciplinary education supports work at the interface of science, engineering and policy — an important advantage for careers in sustainability and green technology.

Finally, studying at Keele places you in a supportive academic community with professional development activities, employability support and links to regional and national organisations working on sustainability challenges.