Overview

Use science to solve the biggest challenges facing the environment today.

From changing climates to habitat loss, from species extinction to overpopulation – the environment needs solutions to its increasingly complex problems.

In the Master of Environmental Science, you’ll tackle climate change, contamination, conservation and food security, and build specialist knowledge in environmental management. You will apply this knowledge – along with your background in environmental engineering, or life, chemical, physical, earth or environmental sciences – to a major project addressing real-world problems.

Key features

• Your degree, your way. Tailor your study to your interests and the issues you want to address by choosing from a wide range of environmental science and interdisciplinary subjects.
• Address real-world problems. Apply your expertise to a major industry-based or research project, working with partners across multiple sectors to tackle real issues, and build professional connections while you’re at it.
• Skills that go beyond science. Develop complementary skills in areas like risk assessment, ethical business, communication, policy and planning, and prepare yourself to work across various roles, sectors and industries.

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Why study environmental science at Melbourne?

Get your hands dirty.

Through hands-on real-world experiences, you’ll build essential skills and key industry insights while you learn and work alongside experts tackling major environmental issues.

• Learn by doing. Gain practical experience through fieldwork, industry projects and applied learning, and build the skills you need to analyse and address real environmental problems.
• Connect with industry. Complete a major industry project as part of your study, enabling you to build your professional network and gain insight into how this discipline applies to industry
• Develop a multidisciplinary mindset. Learn to approach problems from different angles – including scientific, social and policy perspectives – in preparation to navigate complex projects throughout your career.

Student support

Master of Environmental Science students enjoy dedicated support from experienced academic advisors in the Office for Environmental Programs.

• Course planning and academic skills advice. Meet with an advisor and tailor your study plan for professional practice, or prepare for a higher degree by research.
• Mentoring opportunities. Learn more about academic and peer mentoring opportunities.
• Network building. Attend interactive seminars, participate in work-intergrated internships and other networking events designed specifically for environment students.
• Postgraduate Environment Network. Engage with like-minded students and alumni interested in the environmental and sustainability sector. Join open discussion forums, organise events, and build connections with industry professionals.

As a Melbourne student, you'll be supported to succeed — in your studies, your wellbeing and your finances.

• International student support. Visa and arrival help when you need it.
• Academic skills and advice. Meet an advisor or join a workshop to get the most from your studies.
• Global exchange. Study overseas through our network of global partners.
• Mentoring and community. Explore student life and student and alumni mentoring programs.
• Wellbeing and accommodation. Access health, counselling and accommodation support.
• Fees and scholarships. Find scholarships you're eligible for and manage your finances.

See all the ways Melbourne supports you

About the faculty

Visit the School of Geography, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences and the Office for Environmental Programs to learn more about the school's degrees, research and career planning support.