Applied Environmental Sciences (Taught)

The MSc in Applied Environmental Sciences, which was previously named MSc in Environmental Science, offers a new angle on Masters-level Earth science education. Industry work placement with our trusted UK and US environmental consultancy partners helps our MSc students become highly skilled, well-rounded and work-ready early career professionals.

The degree places a strong emphasis on hands-on technical training grounded in theoretical concepts required to tackle the major environmental challenges of our century. This includes investigating and implementing solutions to global climate change, remediating and reducing the pollution of natural waters, and securing and managing the supply of natural resources. Candidates are trained in survey and experiment design, field-deployable as well as lab-based analytical techniques, and technical report writing as a core element of the degree programme.

Core modules provide graduate-level training on world-class analytical equipment and the application of this knowledge to quantitatively assess natural and polluted systems. The range of optional modules allows students to tailor the degree towards their personal background, interests, and career goals, spanning from managing Earth’s natural resources to the study of the oceans, atmosphere, and climate change, providing a cutting-edge scientific education led by our faculty.

A clear pathway to employment is provided in the degree’s capstone module that is designed to translate academic knowledge into practical skills for the modern workplace. Students receive training in technical report writing, due diligence, presentation skills and project management fundamentals. Industry partners provide guest lectures and workshops to provide insight on industry best practices and to advertise work placement opportunities.

During the summer semester, candidates choose between a traditional research dissertation or undertaking a work placement with one of our industry partners, which include some of the leading environmental and geotechnical consultancy firms in the UK and USA. Placements are designed to help candidates expand their professional networks and strengthen their work experience portfolios, ultimately enhancing their postgraduate employment opportunities on a global scale.

Course Modules

For further information please see the Course Details section: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/subjects/earth-environmental-sciences/applied-environmental-sciences-msc/

Learn full-time (two semesters) or part-time (four semesters). Work placement or research dissertation. A mix of coursework and exams.