Environmental Sustainability is one of two core subjects for the Master of Environment degree. This subject provides students with a strong foundation in interdisciplinary understanding of critical environmental sustainability issues, and how and why they have emerged, in the context of policy, management, and governance across scales and sectors.

Exploring environmental sustainability through an interdisciplinary lens, this subject considers concepts and principles fundamental for understanding the complex nature of the environmental crises facing humanity and, in turn, for developing solutions. Environmental Sustainability will cover:

• The fundamental earth system processes that provide humanity’s life-support system;
• The conditions that have led to the Anthropocene, and its implications for life as we know it;
• Global and local environmental challenges, including for biodiversity, water, energy, and food, in relation their natural and social environments;
• Complex social-ecological systems and their role in contributing to and solving critical environmental sustainability issues;
• Different perspectives, and the influence of worldview, values and beliefs on sustainability;
• The role of individuals, governments, business and innovation in building a sustainable future; and
• Management, governance, and social-ecological issues for achieving environmental sustainability.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Environmental sustainability issues are often complex, controversial and associated with uncertain conditions. Multiple individuals and organisations may have an interest or stake in the problem, may have relevant expertise or resources, or may contribute to decision-making and management. Developing, implementing and evaluating pathways for sustainable futures thus often requires cooperation across institutions, sectors, and communities. Private, public and not-for-profit sectors; local, national, regional and global jurisdictions; disciplinary, practitioner, local, and Indigenous knowledges: these all have different commitments, priorities, and ways of working. How do we successfully translate and collaborate across these areas, and how does this support transformational change for sustainable futures?

As highlighted by Sustainable Development Goal 17 (Partnerships), the collaborative capacity of individuals and organisations cannot be taken for granted, and instead requires the careful and critical development of a specific set of professional competencies. In this subject, students apply critical and reflexive thinking to professional practices that are crucial to leading effective partnerships for environmental sustainability, and which are highly valued in environmental sectors. Incorporating perspectives and practices from a range of environmental professions and disciplines, the subject develops students’ capacity for building, maintaining and evaluating partnerships in applying environmental expertise to decision-making and action for sustainable futures.

The subject focuses on the following questions:

• What kinds of partnerships are important in integrating environmental expertise and applying it to decision-making and action for sustainable futures, and why?
• What are the challenges for environmental professionals in developing such partnerships and collaborating effectively across organisations, sectors, forms of expertise, and communities?
• What skills and strategies can assist environmental professionals in developing, leading and maintaining effective partnerships with positive outcomes?
• How can we evaluate and learn from the collaborative processes and outcomes of partnerships?

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AIMS

Environmental Management ISO 14000 aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge to apply and help develop environmental management systems. The subject builds on the student’s knowledge of risk management, such as that gained in CVEN30008 Risk Analysis, and develops their ability to identify, assess and manage environmental risk that arises from the construction and operation of manufacturing or infrastructure facilities. It also builds on knowledge about sustainability such as is learnt in the subject CVEN90043 Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering, and other management systems such as those learnt in CVEN90045 Engineering Project Implementation.

At the conclusion of the subject, it is expected that students should be able to work under supervision in a capacity where they are responsible for the maintenance of an existing environmental management system, or assist in developing a new system. They should also be in a position to conduct simple internal audits and assist in more complex internal audits. The subject does not provide students with sufficient practice and skills to immediately become an accredited auditor in Australia.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Environmental Management ISO 14000 will cover the following related areas of study: the history of EMS from Demming Wheel to ISO 14000 series; the elements of an EMS; systems audit and review and gap analysis; legal requirements, due diligence document control, liability and ISO 9000 review; regulation and accreditation; community consultation; emerging issues in environmental management.

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AIMS

In this subject students will learn about the fundamentals of the solid waste stream in modern society. Emphasis will be placed on the life cycle aspects of waste and the prospect of minimizing waste and maximizing the economic value of waste streams. Interaction between solid wastes and liquid and gaseous waste streams will also be considered. The subject builds on knowledge from subjects such as CVEN90043 Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering where general principles of sustainability are discussed. Student knowledge of systems and material cycles, learnt in subjects such as ENEN90031 Quantitative Environmental Modelling and CVEN30010 Systems Modelling and Design or their equivalent in other subjects forms the basic grounding for the subject. The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in waste management, but is also relevant to a range of engineering design disciplines where design for the total life cycle of the product or infrastructure should be considered.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Regulatory aspects of waste management, sustainability programs in government and private sector, life cycle assessment, organic waste treatment and management, inorganic waste treatment and management, landfill hydrology and design, cleaner production strategies, hazardous waste management, collection and transport logistics.

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AIMS

In this subject students will learn about the fundamentals of water quality and the associated standards for use as potable water, recycled water or discharge into the environment in a sustainable manner. The subject will include the identification of risks and measures to control those risks and various treatment processes including physical, chemical and microbiological treatment of water and wastewater. The concept of integrated water management will be introduced and reinforced in the group based project work throughout the semester. Students will learn about the systems for water reclamation and reuse. This subject builds on a range of student’s general knowledge of water systems engineering that is developed in subjects like Systems Modelling and Design and builds on general knowledge of chemistry and biology. It is also assumed that students have developed skills on identifying and sourcing information, and can effectively work as a team to solve larger problems.

Graduates from this subject may apply the skills developed in the water supply, waste water treatment, or water sensitive urban design areas.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

This subject covers theoretical and practical management aspects of sustainable water supply and treatment, wastewater treatment and reuse. Specific topics include:

• Integrated water management
• Risk identification and management for water services
• Water quality guidelines, regulations and performance criteria for treatment plant design
• Water treatment processes and waste disposal
• Wastewater treatment - physical, chemical and biological treatment technologies
• Systems for water reclamation and reuse.

The students will produce a conceptual design of a water and wastewater treatment system for a small town.

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AIMS

Environmental problems are highly complex and challenging to analyse and are often addressed through modelling. Being skilled at environmental modelling is a core professional requirement for an Environmental Engineer. This subject focuses on environmental modelling methodology including the steps of model conceptualisation, model construction, model evaluation and model application using a range of energy, water and waste models. The subject complements ENEN90032 Environmental Analysis Tools and ENEN90028 Monitoring Environmental Impacts which provide other core environmental engineering skills. It provides modelling skills for a wide range of discipline based subjects such as ENEN90006 Solid Wastes, ENEN90034 Environmental Applied Hydrology and ENEN90027 Energy for Sustainable Development. The subject is of particular relevance to all Environmental Engineers but is also of relevance to a range of engineering and environmental analysis disciplines that require advanced modelling skills.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

The relationship between theoretical and empirical understanding and their use in model conceptualisation and construction will be explored. This subject introduces a range of environmental modelling techniques applicable to different environmental problems. In this subject students will conceptualise and construct, evaluate and utilise their own model to undertake a technical evaluation of a specified range of potential solutions to an environmental problem. Students will also develop professional judgement skills to critically evaluate models and model results.

Specific topic areas:

• System conceptualisation
• Model construction and validation (computational accuracy)
• Model evaluation
• Calibration and optimisation
• Model uncertainty assessment techniques
• Issues of appropriate model complexity
• Students will have an opportunity to review a modelling topic of their choice.

Students will use a numerical programming language to undertake modelling tasks and will be required to learn some programming skills in the subject.

Please view this video for further information: Quantitative Environmental Modelling

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

The aim of this subject is to develop students’ capability to analyse, interpret, and communicate environmental data commonly encountered in environmental engineering research, assessment, and design. The subject equips students with core skills in exploratory data analysis, statistical inference, time series analysis, and multivariate data analysis, enabling them to summarise environmental variables effectively, identify appropriate statistical models for different problems & data structures, and draw sound inferences about underlying environmental processes. Students will apply a range of analytical methods, from classical statistical approaches to contemporary resampling methods where appropriate, to generate both deterministic and probabilistic insights from data.

The subject is organised into three integrated parts: Exploratory Data Analysis, Time Series Analysis, and Multivariate Data Analysis. It begins with methods for summarising and visualising data, probability models, hypothesis testing, and linear regression, providing a foundation for statistical reasoning and uncertainty analysis. It then examines the temporal structure of environmental data through time series decomposition, stochastic processes, forecasting, and forecast verification. The final part introduces multivariate methods for analysing complex environmental data sets, including matrix-based concepts, principal component analysis, and multivariate data-driven modelling. Throughout the subject, students work with environmental data sets drawn from real applications and develop practical analytical skills through Python-based tutorials and exercises.

The mathematical content builds on concepts introduced in undergraduate engineering mathematics and statistics, and this subject extends them in an applied environmental context. A key component of the subject is the translation of conceptual understanding into real-world problem solving through numerical methods and Python-based data analysis. The subject provides an essential analytical foundation for capstone design projects, research training, and professional practice, where the ability to interpret variability, uncertainty, temporal dynamics, and multivariable relationships in environmental data is increasingly important. It therefore supports the development of fundamental skills for careers in environmental engineering and related fields, where evidence-based analysis and clear communication of data-driven findings are critical.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Specific topics include:

1. Exploratory Data Analysis – Understanding Data, Variation, Uncertainty, and Relationships

• Summarising Data: Quantitative and Graphical Methods
• Probability Models and Goodness-of-Fit Tests
• Statistical Inference and Central Limit Theorem
• Statistical Significance and Hypothesis Test
• Linear Regression
• Prediction and Uncertainty Analysis Using Linear Regression

2. Time Series Analysis – Understanding Temporal Dynamics and Predictability

• Introduction to Time Series Analysis
• Decomposition of Time Series Data
• Analysis of Stochastic Components
• Autoregressive and Moving Average Processes
• Estimation in the Time Domain and Stochastic Ensemble Forecasting
• Forecast Verification

3. Multivariate Data Analysis – Understanding Structure and Predictability in High-dimensional Environmental Data

• Introduction to Multivariate analysis
• Principle Component Analysis (PCA).
• Multivariate Linear Regression
• Prediction Using Large Datasets with PCA

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This subject allows students to conduct an original literature review of research relevant to clearly specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a substantial review of a body of literature or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols. The specific focus of the literature review will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 12.5 points The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct a substantial, independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 50 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research.

The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an substantial independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research.

The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject coordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Understanding of social process and action is critical to effective land and environment management and social research skills are therefore valued by resource management agencies. This subject aims to equip students with knowledge and skills to design social research, which can be used to improve management of environments, agricultural and food systems. The subject presents a framework for understanding diverse approaches to social research; the relationship between theory and method is given particular emphasis.

The research process is considered step by step including scoping research issues, the evolution of research questions, and selection of appropriate methods. A number of research strategies are considered in more detail including survey research, case studies and action research. Social research ethics, quality in social research and advances in social research methods are examined.

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International Internship in the Environment is an elective subject available to students in the Master of Geography, Master of Environment or Master of Ecosystem Management and Conservation. Eligible students gain subject credit for a placement with an organisation based in another country. It provides students with the opportunity to gain exposure to a different cultural setting and to think critically about the nature of the relationship between theory and practice.

The broad aim of the internship is to provide the opportunity for graduate students to gain invaluable practical experience and to build their networks with industry, government or NGOs in order to further enhance their knowledge and skills in their chosen area of study. Students will have the chance to make a positive contribution to the host organisation by applying their previous experience, skills and knowledge gained through study.

To enrol into this subject students will be in the final 100 points of their Masters’ degree in the semester they intend to enrol. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester and seek coordinator permission one semester prior to enrolling into this subject.

Application for credit needs to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. Students undertaking the International Internship in Environment subject may have some additional flexibility for placements that extend beyond these dates. However, applications must be submitted before the application deadline. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z

Students will complete all necessary internship and travel paperwork PRIOR to enrolment in the subject.

Students will generally need to meet the cost of travel and subsistence in the destination country.

Completion of Internship Placement and Risk Assessment form and the on-line Student Travel Registration https://safety.unimelb.edu.au/management/implement

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject involves completion of a minimum 80 hours work placement integrating academic learning, employability skills and attributes, and an improved knowledge of organisations, workplace culture and career pathways. The placement is supplemented by pre- and post-placement classes designed to introduce skills for developing, identifying and articulating employability skills and attributes and linking them to employer requirements. The placement should draw on specific discipline skills associated with the course of enrolment. Pre-placement seminars will also include consideration of career planning and professional skills. The placement is designed to be a standalone internship not integrated into any other subject.

Students are responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the start of semester, and will be assisted by the Subject Coordinator and the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science. In the semester prior to the placement students should access the Careers & Employability Studio: https://careers.unimelb.edu.au/students/career-and-employability-drop-in-sessions drop in sessions, workshops and resources to help identify potential host organisations and employment preparation. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester.

Application for credit need to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects.

If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z

On completion of the subject, students will have completed and reported on a course-related project in a workplace. They will also have enhanced employability skills including communication, interpersonal, analytical and problem-solving skills, organisation and time-management, and an understanding of career planning and professional development.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct a substantial, independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject coordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 50 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct a substantial, independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 50 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research.

The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research.

The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an substantial independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research.

The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an substantial independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research.

The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

Students enrol in the Part 1 subject in the first semester and the Part 2 subject in the second semester.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject involves completion of an 80-100 hour science or technology work placement integrating academic learning in science areas of study, employability skills and attributes and an improved knowledge of science and technology organisations, workplace culture and career pathways. The placement is supplemented by pre- and post-placement classes designed to develop an understanding of science and technology professions, introduce skills for developing, identifying and articulating employability skills and attributes and linking them to employer requirements in the science and technology domains. Work conducted during the placement will be suitable for a graduate level of expertise and experience. While immersed in a work environment, students will be expected to challenge themselves by accepting roles and responsibilities that stretch their existing capabilities. They will interrogate the requirements of specific careers and continually monitor their own progress towards developing the necessary knowledge, skills and attributes to thrive in these roles.

Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester. Application for credit need to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z

On completion of the subject, students will have completed and reported on a course-related project in a science or technology workplace. They will also have enhanced employability skills including communication, interpersonal, analytical and problem-solving, organisational and time-management, and an understanding of career planning and professional development.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject delves into the intricate chemistry of Earth's environmental systems, with a focus on the interconnected realms of the hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere (soil). Through an exploration of the structure, composition, and chemical processes within these systems, students will gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balances that sustain life on our planet. Additionally, students will examine the influence of human activities on environmental health and learn how environmental data informs the development of protective measures at both national and international levels.

Key topics include:

• Understanding the chemical dynamics of Earth's environmental systems, encompassing the hydrosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. Explore the chemical mechanisms and interactions that influence the environmental dynamics of our planet.
• Examination of the sources, chemical characteristics, and effects of environmental pollution.
• Introduction to the principles and practical applications of quantitative chemical analysis, environmental monitoring, and statistical methods for interpreting and reporting environmental data.

A key aspect of this subject will be the investigation of a current advanced environmental chemistry issue that will be covered in lecture material during weeks 7 and 8. The students will work in a small group for this assignment. The practical component of this subject will involve the application of titrimetric, optical (spectrophotometry, atomic absorption/emission spectrometries) and chromatographic (gas chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography) analytical techniques commonly used in environmental chemistry.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The subject provides an understanding of the economic analysis of market and government decisions affecting the environment. Topics include economic principles used in analysing private sector decisions on resource use and preservation, externalities and public goods reasons for government intervention, the theory and practice of benefit cost analysis, case study illustrations to water, forests, greenhouse gases and biodiversity.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

The subject has a strong practical component with a five-day field camp during the week before the mid-semester break involving student-led environmental monitoring. There is also a semester long project to design and implement an environmental monitoring program supported by weekly practice classes.

Component skills taught in this subject:

• Conceptualising environmental responses
• Selecting and using environmental measurement techniques (considering scale issues)
• Analysis of environmental monitoring data.

This subject is a critical foundation for a career for environmental engineering but is also relevant to civil and other engineering disciplines where environmental impacts of engineering projects must be addressed to ensure sustainable engineering solutions.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Selection of measurement techniques and consideration of measurement scale, conceptualising environmental responses to human activities, environmental sampling and monitoring design, systematic review of causal evidence, statistical analysis of environmental effects, risk assessments for occupational health and safety during environmental field programs.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject develops the skills to understand and assess the social impacts of development, including international development projects, resource management, and proposed infrastructure or new policies. We do this in two ways: by looking at how to assess the impacts of proposed projects, and through evaluation techniques for existing developments or projects. In each case we develop practical skills and interdisciplinary techniques to appraise and evaluate impacts. These techniques draw from anthropology, development studies, and the policy sciences, and move beyond simple summative assessments and financial accounting. We consider the social and environmental contexts in which any form of appraisal is embedded, and the capacities of different actors (from the state to NGOs and community groups) to avert or mitigate negative impacts through learning, negotiation, and citizen participation. Examples, some presented by guest speakers, are drawn from Australia, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. At the completion of the subject students will have developed the conceptual skills to understand the impacts of development; be familiar with the range of methodologies and techniques used in impact assessment; understand development evaluation; and will be able to apply this in critical evaluation of the impact of projects and programmes.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Environmental Risk Assessment aims to provide you with the skills to undertake and critically evaluate environmental risk assessments. We outline the history and social context of risk and explore the psychology of risk perception. You will be introduced to quantitative and qualitative tools with the objective of giving you the ability to select, apply and assess technical and socially based risk assessment. The subject is structured to develop your skills in writing reports and participating in group exercises.

While the contact period is six intensive days, the learning period is longer. Reading materials are distributed in May and a small assessment task is set to encourage you to be fully prepared. You will be required to complete a take-home examination and a substantial practical report in the weeks following the course.

The subject is made up of lectures in the mornings and practical exercises in the afternoons. It assumes no formal background in quantitative methods. An understanding of basic statistical concepts (means, medians, standard deviations, confidence intervals, basic linear regression) is an advantage. If you have not been involved in an undergraduate statistics class before, contact the subject coordinator to discuss your options.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject prepares students for environmental management roles by providing them with the principles of how human impacts on the environment might be detected and managed. The principles will be placed within the legal and social contexts of environmental impact assessment. At the completion of the subject, students should understand three aspects: prediction of the kind of changes that might occur with human activities; the design and implementation of proper monitoring programs that can detect changes; and assessment of those changes. Additionally, a strong emphasis is placed on the practical implementation of principles.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Ecological Restoration examines the principles and practices needed to restore terrestrial ecosystems in a range of modified landscapes from settled to agricultural to forested. The subject’s focus is ecological, although consideration is also given to socio-economic factors that influence restoration programs. Lectures and field trips explore ecological principles and projects from site to landscape scales, encompassing biodiversity values and ecosystem services. The subject is delivered via a compressed-semester model including a one-week intensive in the mid-semester break, which will aim to include an overnight two-day field trip to north-eastern Victoria.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject will investigate, both qualitatively and quantitatively, the fundamental physical and chemical processes governing groundwater flow and composition, including aquifer properties, regional geology, hydrology and water-rock interactions. Field and laboratory methods such as well tests, water analysis in the field and in the laboratory and data analysis are demonstrated and used to characterise hydraulic conductivity and mixing, water types and potential contamination. A one-week field excursion to the Newer Volcanic Province and the Limestone Coast will draw together many of these concepts and will emphasise surface and groundwater connectivity and groundwater supported ecosystems.

This subject will have a 1-week intensive field trip that will be delivered in the week prior to the start of Semester 1 (pre-teaching period) and 6 weeks of teaching during weeks 1-6 of Semester 1.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject is designed as an overview of environmental law for students without a legal background who are admitted to courses through the Office for Environmental Programs. It provides students with an understanding of the sources and conceptual foundations of environmental law and aims to develop the ability and confidence of students to understand and critically analyse environmental regulation as an approach to environmental issues. The subject will provide an examination of the development and current scope of Australian environmental law, with a focus on the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) and Victorian pollution control laws . There will also be an introduction to international environmental law.

Indicative list of principal topics:

• Origins and conceptual foundations of environmental law, and the operation of environmental regulation in Australia’s federal system
• Diversity in environmental law approaches, including relationships with other regulatory areas such as planning and natural resource management, and the use of financial measures and economic instruments in regulation
• The integration of environmental law and relevant disciplines concerned with environmental protection, particularly science
• Implementation and enforcement of environmental law
• The importance of international law, recognising that environmental protection issues cross territorial and regulatory boundaries
• Trends in environmental regulation and current debates about the reform of environmental law

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject is designed to provide students with detailed training in statistical methods as applied to the design and analysis of projects undertaken by postgraduate students, across all disciplines.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject is a core subject within the Master of Public Health, the Master of Epidemiology, the Master of Science (Epidemiology) and the Master of Biostatistics. Students should enrol in this subject early in their program of study.

Epidemiology is the study of the distribution and determinants of disease frequency in human populations and the application of this study to control health problems. It is a fundamental science of public health.

Three main tasks of epidemiology include description, causal inference and prediction. This subject focuses on the first two and emphasises the application of epidemiological evidence to informing public health practice and policy.

Description: the epidemiological measures of disease frequency and summary measures of population health are introduced and used to describe patterns and trends in disease occurrence within and between populations. The role of routinely collected data, particularly for surveillance of infectious diseases, is discussed.

Causal inference: is key to applying epidemiological evidence to controlling health problems if interventions are to be effective. In this subject, causal inference is considered within the modern counterfactual framework. Causal diagrams, which are an integral part of this approach to causal inference are introduced. The common experimental and observational study designs, and systematic reviews, and their relative strengths and weaknesses are discussed. The implications of common types of bias (selection bias, information bias, and confounding) are discussed, as are methods to minimise them. Methods to control for confounding, including standardisation, are discussed.

Differences in characteristics of the major sources of morbidity (infectious disease, non-communicable disease, and injury) are discussed in the context of prevention and early detection of disease. Transmission dynamics of infectious diseases are introduced in this context. The applicability of epidemiological evidence (external validity) to interventions in target populations is introduced. Measures of the validity and performance of tests for early detection are introduced.

View detailed information in the Handbook

There is increasing recognition around the world of the threats facing urban environments and their water resources. In many cities water demand is approaching or exceeding limits of sustainability, leading to increasing interest in alternative water sources, such as stormwater harvesting, wastewater recycling and desalination. At the same time, receiving environments such as urban streams and bays are threatened by pollution and erosion from stormwater runoff, or eutrophication due to discharge of poorly-treated wastewater. There is also increasing recognition of the importance of water in the urban landscape, and of its role in the welfare and health of humans.

The concept of “water sensitive urban design” (WSUD), also known as Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) has developed in response to these changes. It aims to better integrate water into the urban landscape, improving the sustainability and liveability of cities (for example through the sustaining of health urban vegetation), while securing adequate resources for growing cities.

This subject reflects the integration inherent in WSUD. The course will teach you about the individual urban water cycle components (water supply, wastewater, stormwater, groundwater), but will primary focus on their interactions and integration, and particularly their interaction with the built and natural environment.

The subject includes a mix of lectures and project-based learning, including a major project (broken up into stages throughout the semester), a full-day excursion and workshops involving leading WSUD experts from public and private industry. The subject will cover:

1. An introduction to WSUD (its principles, objectives, context within other urban planning and sustainability policy & practice) in developed and developing countries
2. Water in the urban landscape, the urban water cycle and its component characteristics
3. Social, environmental and economic impacts of urban water management
4. Structural tools and techniques (conceptual design, operation, maintenance)
5. Non-structural tools and techniques
6. Choice of scales
7. Analysis methods (water balance calculations, water end-use analysis)
8. Lifecycle cost analysis and multi-criteria evaluation frameworks
9. Design tools and software (e.g. MUSIC, Urban Developer, House Water Expert)
10. Institutional and implementation issues
11. Integration between water and other urban design elements

View detailed information in the Handbook

Interactions between risk managers and publics represent the ‘coalface’ for disaster risk reduction. Despite the centrality of these relationships, they are rarely the focus of teaching and learning. This challenge is acute in the context of ‘risk management’, where competing theories and the diversity of cases and factors contribute to masses of content, often with little connection to skill development for students. Furthermore, risk is by its nature difficult to study and often dangerous, making experience-based inquiry exceptionally rare but desperately needed. This subject addresses this gap by providing students with active participation and experience with community engagement through self-directed field research.

This subject will train students to utilise the Community Engagement for Disaster Risk Reduction (CEDRR) methodology, which uses traditional door-knocking between the emergency services and publics, but alters those interactions in order to nurture inter-personal relationships. The subject and method is premised on research that demonstrates that publics do not respond to ‘top-down instructions’ nor to awareness raising. In this subject, students will learn community engagement by doing it with individuals in their social networks (e.g., friends, neighbours, family).

Students will use the web-application for data collection, producing data that will form the basis of their assessments. The subject will deliver skills not currently taught in Australian universities, skills that organisations are increasingly seeking given acceptance that community engagement, participation, and citizen science are required for effective governance.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The use of project management techniques has risen sharply. Examples of projects include research and development studies, reorganisation efforts, implementation of change programs, installation of a new piece of equipment, advertising campaigns, construction, organising special events and other one-off endeavours. The subject will cover the key drivers of project success, training and leadership in project environments. Project selection is the first critical set of decisions. Matching of the projects selected to the organisation’s strategy is taken as the starting point. Practical tools and techniques will then be introduced to manage the project or special event for success. The subject will also involve the use of an appropriate Project Management software package such as MS Project.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Improving global health in the long term requires a deep appreciation of the impact of environmental issues at local, national and global scales. To facilitate depth of learning, this subject focuses on five key public health threats that require complex multidisciplinary solutions, which are: climate change; poor sanitation and water security; nuclear weapons; air pollution and COVID-19. Students of this subject will explore these interrelated planetary challenges, their profound implications for population health, and the demand for high level integrated problem solving in the coming decades. Students will become familiar with and critique relevant policies and international agreements pertaining to environmental health. Students will also learn to identify complex systems and barriers implicated in processes of responding to environmental challenges on global, national and local scales. This subject involves interactive sessions and is facilitated by internationally recognised experts in this field.

Planetary and Global Health is a dual delivery block mode intensive subject. This means that the assessable material is delivered through self-directed online modules that students complete over a two-week period. The online modules offer flexibility in relation to the timing of when students complete them, or what hours of the day you may choose to study. However, allocated modules must be completed in time to allow effective participation in live interactive sessions that are linked with those modules. Live interactive sessions are held on six days across the two week period, in which module material is discussed with fellow students and lecturers. Students may choose to attend these live sessions online or face to face. Students are expected to commit approximately 40 hours to learning each week, comprised of learning modules, reading, discussion board activities, group work and live sessions. This two-week teaching period is followed by group work and independent learning towards three pieces of assessment to be completed over four weeks.

View detailed information in the Handbook

It is perhaps obvious that human behaviour is having a negative impact on our environment. Behavioural change, thus, is pivotal to ensure a more environmentally sustainable future. However the question of behavioural change is vexed. Some argue that humans are ‘naturally’ greedy and selfish, others suggest that we are ‘puppets’ - the victims of the social structures engendered by capitalism, and yet others trust that good behaviour will follow from the ‘truth’; knowledge about environmental problems. These and other views of behaviour set up particular change strategies. The above examples suggest three strategies for changing behaviour: provide people with incentives that will lead them to ‘choose’ different behaviours, or the transformation of social structures such as capitalism and patriarchy, or the provision of environmental education.

This subject examines the question of behavioural change from a number of disciplinary perspectives (psychology, sociology ecology, marketing and economics). Each discipline ‘sees’ the problem differently and this allows us to map insights and gaps in these knowledges. These purported differences can be understood and reconciled; behaviour is show to be a function of the physical, social and psychological aspects of social practices. This allows for a more holistic understanding of behaviour and the strategies that might create behaviour change.

NB: This subject uses a ‘flipped classroom’ mode of delivery. Most weeks require the watching of a vodcast prior to attending a 2 hour seminar. The success of the seminars and student learning is governed by individuals’ preparation and participation. This subject covers a lot of theory and requires active engagement. The consideration of societal behaviour change will likely engender a consideration of your own behaviour, including as a student.

Topics and themes include:

The effect of disciplines: behaviour and behavioural change from the perspectives of psychology, sociology, behavioural economics, ecology and marketing
How insights afforded by the disciplines can be used to create an more holistic and integrated understanding of behaviour change
Critiquing programs for behaviour change

Weekly topics: (1) Defining behaviour, (2) Perspectives: Behavioural Economics, (3) Perspectives: Marketing, (4) Perspectives: Psychology, (5) Perspectives: Sociology, (6) Perspective Ecology, (7) Integration, (8) Strategies: Social Marketing, (9) Strategies: Nudge, (10) Trans-disciplinary Perspectives 1, (11) Trans-disciplinary Perspectives 2

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

Environmental Management ISO 14000 aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge to apply and help develop environmental management systems. The subject builds on the student’s knowledge of risk management, such as that gained in CVEN30008 Risk Analysis, and develops their ability to identify, assess and manage environmental risk that arises from the construction and operation of manufacturing or infrastructure facilities. It also builds on knowledge about sustainability such as is learnt in the subject CVEN90043 Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering, and other management systems such as those learnt in CVEN90045 Engineering Project Implementation.

At the conclusion of the subject, it is expected that students should be able to work under supervision in a capacity where they are responsible for the maintenance of an existing environmental management system, or assist in developing a new system. They should also be in a position to conduct simple internal audits and assist in more complex internal audits. The subject does not provide students with sufficient practice and skills to immediately become an accredited auditor in Australia.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Environmental Management ISO 14000 will cover the following related areas of study: the history of EMS from Demming Wheel to ISO 14000 series; the elements of an EMS; systems audit and review and gap analysis; legal requirements, due diligence document control, liability and ISO 9000 review; regulation and accreditation; community consultation; emerging issues in environmental management.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

In this subject students will learn about the fundamentals of the solid waste stream in modern society. Emphasis will be placed on the life cycle aspects of waste and the prospect of minimizing waste and maximizing the economic value of waste streams. Interaction between solid wastes and liquid and gaseous waste streams will also be considered. The subject builds on knowledge from subjects such as CVEN90043 Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering where general principles of sustainability are discussed. Student knowledge of systems and material cycles, learnt in subjects such as ENEN90031 Quantitative Environmental Modelling and CVEN30010 Systems Modelling and Design or their equivalent in other subjects forms the basic grounding for the subject. The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in waste management, but is also relevant to a range of engineering design disciplines where design for the total life cycle of the product or infrastructure should be considered.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Regulatory aspects of waste management, sustainability programs in government and private sector, life cycle assessment, organic waste treatment and management, inorganic waste treatment and management, landfill hydrology and design, cleaner production strategies, hazardous waste management, collection and transport logistics.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

In this subject students will learn about the fundamentals of water quality and the associated standards for use as potable water, recycled water or discharge into the environment in a sustainable manner. The subject will include the identification of risks and measures to control those risks and various treatment processes including physical, chemical and microbiological treatment of water and wastewater. The concept of integrated water management will be introduced and reinforced in the group based project work throughout the semester. Students will learn about the systems for water reclamation and reuse. This subject builds on a range of student’s general knowledge of water systems engineering that is developed in subjects like Systems Modelling and Design and builds on general knowledge of chemistry and biology. It is also assumed that students have developed skills on identifying and sourcing information, and can effectively work as a team to solve larger problems.

Graduates from this subject may apply the skills developed in the water supply, waste water treatment, or water sensitive urban design areas.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

This subject covers theoretical and practical management aspects of sustainable water supply and treatment, wastewater treatment and reuse. Specific topics include:

• Integrated water management
• Risk identification and management for water services
• Water quality guidelines, regulations and performance criteria for treatment plant design
• Water treatment processes and waste disposal
• Wastewater treatment - physical, chemical and biological treatment technologies
• Systems for water reclamation and reuse.

The students will produce a conceptual design of a water and wastewater treatment system for a small town.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

Environmental problems are highly complex and challenging to analyse and are often addressed through modelling. Being skilled at environmental modelling is a core professional requirement for an Environmental Engineer. This subject focuses on environmental modelling methodology including the steps of model conceptualisation, model construction, model evaluation and model application using a range of energy, water and waste models. The subject complements ENEN90032 Environmental Analysis Tools and ENEN90028 Monitoring Environmental Impacts which provide other core environmental engineering skills. It provides modelling skills for a wide range of discipline based subjects such as ENEN90006 Solid Wastes, ENEN90034 Environmental Applied Hydrology and ENEN90027 Energy for Sustainable Development. The subject is of particular relevance to all Environmental Engineers but is also of relevance to a range of engineering and environmental analysis disciplines that require advanced modelling skills.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

The relationship between theoretical and empirical understanding and their use in model conceptualisation and construction will be explored. This subject introduces a range of environmental modelling techniques applicable to different environmental problems. In this subject students will conceptualise and construct, evaluate and utilise their own model to undertake a technical evaluation of a specified range of potential solutions to an environmental problem. Students will also develop professional judgement skills to critically evaluate models and model results.

Specific topic areas:

• System conceptualisation
• Model construction and validation (computational accuracy)
• Model evaluation
• Calibration and optimisation
• Model uncertainty assessment techniques
• Issues of appropriate model complexity
• Students will have an opportunity to review a modelling topic of their choice.

Students will use a numerical programming language to undertake modelling tasks and will be required to learn some programming skills in the subject.

Please view this video for further information: Quantitative Environmental Modelling

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

The aim of this subject is to develop students’ capability to analyse, interpret, and communicate environmental data commonly encountered in environmental engineering research, assessment, and design. The subject equips students with core skills in exploratory data analysis, statistical inference, time series analysis, and multivariate data analysis, enabling them to summarise environmental variables effectively, identify appropriate statistical models for different problems & data structures, and draw sound inferences about underlying environmental processes. Students will apply a range of analytical methods, from classical statistical approaches to contemporary resampling methods where appropriate, to generate both deterministic and probabilistic insights from data.

The subject is organised into three integrated parts: Exploratory Data Analysis, Time Series Analysis, and Multivariate Data Analysis. It begins with methods for summarising and visualising data, probability models, hypothesis testing, and linear regression, providing a foundation for statistical reasoning and uncertainty analysis. It then examines the temporal structure of environmental data through time series decomposition, stochastic processes, forecasting, and forecast verification. The final part introduces multivariate methods for analysing complex environmental data sets, including matrix-based concepts, principal component analysis, and multivariate data-driven modelling. Throughout the subject, students work with environmental data sets drawn from real applications and develop practical analytical skills through Python-based tutorials and exercises.

The mathematical content builds on concepts introduced in undergraduate engineering mathematics and statistics, and this subject extends them in an applied environmental context. A key component of the subject is the translation of conceptual understanding into real-world problem solving through numerical methods and Python-based data analysis. The subject provides an essential analytical foundation for capstone design projects, research training, and professional practice, where the ability to interpret variability, uncertainty, temporal dynamics, and multivariable relationships in environmental data is increasingly important. It therefore supports the development of fundamental skills for careers in environmental engineering and related fields, where evidence-based analysis and clear communication of data-driven findings are critical.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Specific topics include:

1. Exploratory Data Analysis – Understanding Data, Variation, Uncertainty, and Relationships

• Summarising Data: Quantitative and Graphical Methods
• Probability Models and Goodness-of-Fit Tests
• Statistical Inference and Central Limit Theorem
• Statistical Significance and Hypothesis Test
• Linear Regression
• Prediction and Uncertainty Analysis Using Linear Regression

2. Time Series Analysis – Understanding Temporal Dynamics and Predictability

• Introduction to Time Series Analysis
• Decomposition of Time Series Data
• Analysis of Stochastic Components
• Autoregressive and Moving Average Processes
• Estimation in the Time Domain and Stochastic Ensemble Forecasting
• Forecast Verification

3. Multivariate Data Analysis – Understanding Structure and Predictability in High-dimensional Environmental Data

• Introduction to Multivariate analysis
• Principle Component Analysis (PCA).
• Multivariate Linear Regression
• Prediction Using Large Datasets with PCA

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an original literature review of research relevant to clearly specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a substantial review of a body of literature or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols. The specific focus of the literature review will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 12.5 points The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct a substantial, independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability. The project comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research. The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 50 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an substantial independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research.

The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject coordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject allows students to conduct an independent, original research project in a specified area of environment and sustainability, in collaboration with an industry partner. The project addresses a real world problem in an industry context and comprises a review of a body of literature, a review and discussion of methodology and/ or an evaluation of research or experimental protocols and some original research.

The specific focus of the research project will be initiated by either the student arising from their keen interests and consultations with other networks and academic staff with relevant expertise, or by an industry partner. Proposals for research projects must be submitted to the subject coordinator in the semester prior to commencement in the subject. Final approval for the topic lies with the subject co-ordinator.

The work will be equivalent to lecture and practical based subjects worth 25 points. The work commitment includes regular one hour meetings with academic and industry partner supervisors where students report on progress, difficulties and research plans. Workshops conducted by the subject coordinator will deliver skill development in research practice including oral and written report presentation, with a focus on communication of research in interdisciplinary contexts.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Understanding of social process and action is critical to effective land and environment management and social research skills are therefore valued by resource management agencies. This subject aims to equip students with knowledge and skills to design social research, which can be used to improve management of environments, agricultural and food systems. The subject presents a framework for understanding diverse approaches to social research; the relationship between theory and method is given particular emphasis.

The research process is considered step by step including scoping research issues, the evolution of research questions, and selection of appropriate methods. A number of research strategies are considered in more detail including survey research, case studies and action research. Social research ethics, quality in social research and advances in social research methods are examined.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Internship in Development is an elective subject available to graduate students in Development and various cognate disciplines and fields of study. The internship subject aims to provide students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills learnt in class and enhance their understanding of the current approaches to the broad field of development through a structured period of contributing as a temporary staff member in a government, non-government or private corporation inside or outside Australia. Students are able to select a host organisation to further develop their knowledge and skills in their chosen area of interest. The exposure to a different cultural, socio-political or organisational context provides students with vast opportunities to critically reflect on the relationship between theory and practice, and the thus the nature of development as they have studied it and as they observe it to be approached or practiced during their internship placement.

View detailed information in the Handbook

International Internship in the Environment is an elective subject available to students in the Master of Geography, Master of Environment or Master of Ecosystem Management and Conservation. Eligible students gain subject credit for a placement with an organisation based in another country. It provides students with the opportunity to gain exposure to a different cultural setting and to think critically about the nature of the relationship between theory and practice.

The broad aim of the internship is to provide the opportunity for graduate students to gain invaluable practical experience and to build their networks with industry, government or NGOs in order to further enhance their knowledge and skills in their chosen area of study. Students will have the chance to make a positive contribution to the host organisation by applying their previous experience, skills and knowledge gained through study.

To enrol into this subject students will be in the final 100 points of their Masters’ degree in the semester they intend to enrol. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester and seek coordinator permission one semester prior to enrolling into this subject.

Application for credit needs to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. Students undertaking the International Internship in Environment subject may have some additional flexibility for placements that extend beyond these dates. However, applications must be submitted before the application deadline. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z

Students will complete all necessary internship and travel paperwork PRIOR to enrolment in the subject.

Students will generally need to meet the cost of travel and subsistence in the destination country.

Completion of Internship Placement and Risk Assessment form and the on-line Student Travel Registration https://safety.unimelb.edu.au/management/implement

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject involves completion of a minimum 80 hours work placement integrating academic learning, employability skills and attributes, and an improved knowledge of organisations, workplace culture and career pathways. The placement is supplemented by pre- and post-placement classes designed to introduce skills for developing, identifying and articulating employability skills and attributes and linking them to employer requirements. The placement should draw on specific discipline skills associated with the course of enrolment. Pre-placement seminars will also include consideration of career planning and professional skills. The placement is designed to be a standalone internship not integrated into any other subject.

Students are responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the start of semester, and will be assisted by the Subject Coordinator and the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science. In the semester prior to the placement students should access the Careers & Employability Studio: https://careers.unimelb.edu.au/students/career-and-employability-drop-in-sessions drop in sessions, workshops and resources to help identify potential host organisations and employment preparation. Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester.

Application for credit need to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects.

If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z

On completion of the subject, students will have completed and reported on a course-related project in a workplace. They will also have enhanced employability skills including communication, interpersonal, analytical and problem-solving skills, organisation and time-management, and an understanding of career planning and professional development.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject focuses on the advanced language required for successful graduate study in English. In this subject students will develop critical approaches to researching, reading and writing. They will also develop the ability to plan and present confidently on a research topic and to write a literature review fluently and accurately. Particular attention is paid to grammatical and stylistic aspects of written and spoken academic discourse. Students write and present on a research topic that is relevant to their field of study.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject involves completion of an 80-100 hour science or technology work placement integrating academic learning in science areas of study, employability skills and attributes and an improved knowledge of science and technology organisations, workplace culture and career pathways. The placement is supplemented by pre- and post-placement classes designed to develop an understanding of science and technology professions, introduce skills for developing, identifying and articulating employability skills and attributes and linking them to employer requirements in the science and technology domains. Work conducted during the placement will be suitable for a graduate level of expertise and experience. While immersed in a work environment, students will be expected to challenge themselves by accepting roles and responsibilities that stretch their existing capabilities. They will interrogate the requirements of specific careers and continually monitor their own progress towards developing the necessary knowledge, skills and attributes to thrive in these roles.

Students will be responsible for identifying a suitable work placement prior to the semester. Application for credit need to be submitted via the Internships Portal at least 3 weeks prior to internship commencement and within the Key Dates mentioned on the website. More information is available on the subject webpage here: https://science.unimelb.edu.au/students/plan-your-study/internship-subjects. If you have questions on how and where to find internship, you should contact the Careers and Industry team in the Faculty of Science at hyperlink: https://forms.your.unimelb.edu.au/4747166?SID=a3xOY000000018z

On completion of the subject, students will have completed and reported on a course-related project in a science or technology workplace. They will also have enhanced employability skills including communication, interpersonal, analytical and problem-solving, organisational and time-management, and an understanding of career planning and professional development.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

In this subject students will learn about the fundamentals of the solid waste stream in modern society. Emphasis will be placed on the life cycle aspects of waste and the prospect of minimizing waste and maximizing the economic value of waste streams. Interaction between solid wastes and liquid and gaseous waste streams will also be considered. The subject builds on knowledge from subjects such as CVEN90043 Sustainable Infrastructure Engineering where general principles of sustainability are discussed. Student knowledge of systems and material cycles, learnt in subjects such as ENEN90031 Quantitative Environmental Modelling and CVEN30010 Systems Modelling and Design or their equivalent in other subjects forms the basic grounding for the subject. The subject is of particular relevance to students wishing to establish a career in waste management, but is also relevant to a range of engineering design disciplines where design for the total life cycle of the product or infrastructure should be considered.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Regulatory aspects of waste management, sustainability programs in government and private sector, life cycle assessment, organic waste treatment and management, inorganic waste treatment and management, landfill hydrology and design, cleaner production strategies, hazardous waste management, collection and transport logistics.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

In this subject students will learn about the fundamentals of water quality and the associated standards for use as potable water, recycled water or discharge into the environment in a sustainable manner. The subject will include the identification of risks and measures to control those risks and various treatment processes including physical, chemical and microbiological treatment of water and wastewater. The concept of integrated water management will be introduced and reinforced in the group based project work throughout the semester. Students will learn about the systems for water reclamation and reuse. This subject builds on a range of student’s general knowledge of water systems engineering that is developed in subjects like Systems Modelling and Design and builds on general knowledge of chemistry and biology. It is also assumed that students have developed skills on identifying and sourcing information, and can effectively work as a team to solve larger problems.

Graduates from this subject may apply the skills developed in the water supply, waste water treatment, or water sensitive urban design areas.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

This subject covers theoretical and practical management aspects of sustainable water supply and treatment, wastewater treatment and reuse. Specific topics include:

• Integrated water management
• Risk identification and management for water services
• Water quality guidelines, regulations and performance criteria for treatment plant design
• Water treatment processes and waste disposal
• Wastewater treatment - physical, chemical and biological treatment technologies
• Systems for water reclamation and reuse.

The students will produce a conceptual design of a water and wastewater treatment system for a small town.

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AIMS

Environmental problems are highly complex and challenging to analyse and are often addressed through modelling. Being skilled at environmental modelling is a core professional requirement for an Environmental Engineer. This subject focuses on environmental modelling methodology including the steps of model conceptualisation, model construction, model evaluation and model application using a range of energy, water and waste models. The subject complements ENEN90032 Environmental Analysis Tools and ENEN90028 Monitoring Environmental Impacts which provide other core environmental engineering skills. It provides modelling skills for a wide range of discipline based subjects such as ENEN90006 Solid Wastes, ENEN90034 Environmental Applied Hydrology and ENEN90027 Energy for Sustainable Development. The subject is of particular relevance to all Environmental Engineers but is also of relevance to a range of engineering and environmental analysis disciplines that require advanced modelling skills.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

The relationship between theoretical and empirical understanding and their use in model conceptualisation and construction will be explored. This subject introduces a range of environmental modelling techniques applicable to different environmental problems. In this subject students will conceptualise and construct, evaluate and utilise their own model to undertake a technical evaluation of a specified range of potential solutions to an environmental problem. Students will also develop professional judgement skills to critically evaluate models and model results.

Specific topic areas:

• System conceptualisation
• Model construction and validation (computational accuracy)
• Model evaluation
• Calibration and optimisation
• Model uncertainty assessment techniques
• Issues of appropriate model complexity
• Students will have an opportunity to review a modelling topic of their choice.

Students will use a numerical programming language to undertake modelling tasks and will be required to learn some programming skills in the subject.

Please view this video for further information: Quantitative Environmental Modelling

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AIMS

The aim of this subject is to develop students’ capability to analyse, interpret, and communicate environmental data commonly encountered in environmental engineering research, assessment, and design. The subject equips students with core skills in exploratory data analysis, statistical inference, time series analysis, and multivariate data analysis, enabling them to summarise environmental variables effectively, identify appropriate statistical models for different problems & data structures, and draw sound inferences about underlying environmental processes. Students will apply a range of analytical methods, from classical statistical approaches to contemporary resampling methods where appropriate, to generate both deterministic and probabilistic insights from data.

The subject is organised into three integrated parts: Exploratory Data Analysis, Time Series Analysis, and Multivariate Data Analysis. It begins with methods for summarising and visualising data, probability models, hypothesis testing, and linear regression, providing a foundation for statistical reasoning and uncertainty analysis. It then examines the temporal structure of environmental data through time series decomposition, stochastic processes, forecasting, and forecast verification. The final part introduces multivariate methods for analysing complex environmental data sets, including matrix-based concepts, principal component analysis, and multivariate data-driven modelling. Throughout the subject, students work with environmental data sets drawn from real applications and develop practical analytical skills through Python-based tutorials and exercises.

The mathematical content builds on concepts introduced in undergraduate engineering mathematics and statistics, and this subject extends them in an applied environmental context. A key component of the subject is the translation of conceptual understanding into real-world problem solving through numerical methods and Python-based data analysis. The subject provides an essential analytical foundation for capstone design projects, research training, and professional practice, where the ability to interpret variability, uncertainty, temporal dynamics, and multivariable relationships in environmental data is increasingly important. It therefore supports the development of fundamental skills for careers in environmental engineering and related fields, where evidence-based analysis and clear communication of data-driven findings are critical.

INDICATIVE CONTENT

Specific topics include:

1. Exploratory Data Analysis – Understanding Data, Variation, Uncertainty, and Relationships

• Summarising Data: Quantitative and Graphical Methods
• Probability Models and Goodness-of-Fit Tests
• Statistical Inference and Central Limit Theorem
• Statistical Significance and Hypothesis Test
• Linear Regression
• Prediction and Uncertainty Analysis Using Linear Regression

2. Time Series Analysis – Understanding Temporal Dynamics and Predictability

• Introduction to Time Series Analysis
• Decomposition of Time Series Data
• Analysis of Stochastic Components
• Autoregressive and Moving Average Processes
• Estimation in the Time Domain and Stochastic Ensemble Forecasting
• Forecast Verification

3. Multivariate Data Analysis – Understanding Structure and Predictability in High-dimensional Environmental Data

• Introduction to Multivariate analysis
• Principle Component Analysis (PCA).
• Multivariate Linear Regression
• Prediction Using Large Datasets with PCA

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Fieldwork is demanding and poses unique risks to the security and safety of the researcher and research participants. Fieldwork also relies on the researcher’s ability to clearly understand their research design and methods and access, collect and manage data in the field. This eight-day intensive subject prepares students for undertaking detailed fieldwork for extended periods overseas in less secure and/or complex environments. Students will develop a working knowledge of what is required to develop an integrated Research Plan, Ethics Application and Fieldwork Risk Management Plan as required for postgraduate research theses.

The subject consists of four days of classroom-based lectures and four days in a scenario/simulation learning environment. Designed to deliver theoretical and practical skills, the subject is taught by a combination of academics and professional security consultants. It covers applied research philosophy, methodologies, field skills and techniques to prepare students for undertaking detailed fieldwork research with vulnerable research participants and/or for extended periods in less secure, complex and/or hostile environments.

The subject builds upon the introductory level of knowledge students learned in undergraduate and honours level research methods subjects, and focuses on applied research methods.

Learning applied research methods and field-craft skills will enhance student’s ability to make original contributions to knowledge. The subject equips students with a working appreciation for the major methodological, ethical and logistical challenges they are likely to confront during fieldwork. The subject is structured to be of relevance to students in social science and humanities based disciplines, and to provide skills relevant for careers in International Development, NGOs and Government agencies.

The following elements are covered in the practical training:

• Security Context
• Field Preparedness and Evacuation
• Residence Assessment Exercise
• Basics of Negotiation
• Coping with Insecure Environments: Stress Awareness
• Field Communication Equipment and Communication Protocol
• First Aid: Essentials for life support (EAR/CPR, major bleeding control & evacuation/repatriation)
• Image and Acceptance
• Vehicle Check Points/Road Blocks
• Field Security (Crowds and Mobs, Hostage Survival, Vehicle Check Points/Road Blocks, Sexual Assault, Weapons Awareness)

The practical component enables students to apply their new knowledge regarding equipment, organisation, physical and mental states, risk management and contingency planning. (i.e. what to do on arrival in-country, how to fine-tune plans, flexible organisation, importance of travelling light for mobility).

Practical skills taught through experiential scenarios include but are not limited to:

• Patterns of behaviour and predictability
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder self-assessment procedure
• How to not be a target (e.g. how and why a researcher is seen)
• What to do regarding the presence of small arms (i.e. what indicators to understand regarding their use and when under fire or in the vicinity of fire how to take cover)
• How to avoid and/or cope with threats of physical violence and physical violence

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Urban governance and citizen participation influence both the structure of the planning process (e.g. who participates, and how and when they participate) and the built environment outcomes produced from this process. All practitioners who work in local and regional environments (built, natural, social) need to be aware of the strategies and techniques that can be employed to elicit involvement from the public and private sector, and the modes of governance that shape citizen and stakeholder participation at different scales of government and at different points in the planning process. This subject will impart to students the skills involved in encouraging and managing participation in the overall governance and planning of urban regions.

These skills include:

• Understand the concept of urban governance
• Understanding the influence of different forms of urban governance on processes of citizen participation
• Understand the nexus between the public and private sectors and civil society in planning for and managing cities
• Understand the role of local, State and Commonwealth government, the private sector and civil society in delivering and financing infrastructure and services
• Encouraging and managing citizen engagement using different participatory tools
• Understanding and assessing different characteristics of urban conflict
• Negotiation, mediation, consensus-building between government, the private sector and civil society in complex situations with deep value differences
• Have insight into comparative governance contexts through case studies from other countries
• Evaluation of citizen participatory processes

There will be considerable reliance on hand-on exercises based on case studies from Melbourne and around the world. The subject aims to be relevant to urban and social planners, landscape architects, urban designers, architects, property professionals, community developers, and environmental activities.

This subject replaces ABPL90315 Urban Governance, and was previously known as Participation and Negotiation.

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The course covers the fundamentals of spatial analysis for ecosystem management and conservation problems. Students will develop skills in the application of remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for landscape analysis of data. Methodologies for collecting, analysing and interpreting spatial data will be considered through theoretical and practical approaches. These will include data collected by drones through to satellite derived measures at a continental to global scale. Students will learn the spatial skills essential to environmental management by applying industry standard tools and methods. Finally, students will develop an understanding of the emerging technologies in data collection and analysis.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject explores the role of marketing and consumption in a world facing significant social and environmental challenges. What is the role of marketing and marketers in climate change, digital privacy, or the obesity crisis? Does marketing actually improve consumers’ wellbeing? Many ‘ethical’ consumers now integrate their concern for society and the environment into their purchasing decisions. And many ‘ethical’ brands now promote their social and/or environmental credentials. So, can we market and consume our way out of these crises? This subject will address the criticisms of marketing’s role in sustainability issues, and then equip students with the strategic and ethical direction to respond proactively to the opportunities these challenges provide.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Terrestrial ecosystems provide a wide range of values—from biodiversity and carbon storage to clean water and recreational opportunities in interaction with social systems. Managing ecosystems to sustain these values requires understanding what values exist in a given ecosystem, their interactions with society and how they change over time and space. However, natural ecosystems and the social context within which they are embedded are inherently variable across scales—capturing the many ecosystem values presents a significant challenge. This unit will explore the principles of, and approaches to, ecosystem assessment and monitoring across both the biophysical and social domains. We will focus on developing practical skills in the design of social and biophysical assessments, data collection and the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data associated with natural resources and their management. Example assessment approaches include ecological monitoring, forest inventory, stakeholder analysis, participatory mapping and value-based conversations, among many others. We will draw on examples from a range of ecosystems around the world.

This subject will involve practicals and a three-day, pre-semester field trip.

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What is conflict of interest? What should a scientist do when they find fraud is occurring on a scientific research team? How does a scientist write and defend an animal ethics submission and get it approved? What are the ethical issues associated with peer review? This subject is intended to give students a broad overview of research ethics in a scientific context. It will include topics on scientific integrity; conflicts of interest; data recording management; authorship and peer review; animal experimentation and regulations; privacy and confidentiality of records; and, finally, research in humans.

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This subject provides an introduction to the key environmental challenges in contemporary China and to China’s environmental governance. The subject is structured around four topics: water resources, land resources, air pollution, and energy and climate change. For each of these topics lectures and tutorials will analyse impacts, policy and governance arrangements, citizen and NGO involvement, government and media discourse, and international linkages. Students will be introduced to key theoretical debates in China studies, development studies and human geography to help them understand the complexities of China’s environmental challenges. Using the environment as a lens, students will gain an understanding of politics and state-society relations in contemporary China.

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This subject examines principles in the two disciplines of hydrology and ecology, emphasising the application of both to understand how to solve environmental management problems in river ecosystems. The subject focuses primarily on processes occurring within the channel, while the surrounding catchment type is considered as background context. The subject examines water in terms of quantity and quality; and the physical channel and floodplain systems in which it is conveyed and stored, along with transported materials such as sediments and organic matter. The subject also examines population, community and ecosystem dynamics of riverine organisms and their geographical distributions and diversities. Through practicals and fieldwork, students should develop skills in acquiring, analysing and presenting hydrological and ecological data, and in the identification and proper field sampling of stream biota. Students should become aware of the multidisciplinary nature of environmental management and the need for critical examination of ideas in the literature.

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The course covers the fundamentals of spatial analysis for ecosystem management and conservation problems. Students will develop skills in the application of remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for landscape analysis of data. Methodologies for collecting, analysing and interpreting spatial data will be considered through theoretical and practical approaches. These will include data collected by drones through to satellite derived measures at a continental to global scale. Students will learn the spatial skills essential to environmental management by applying industry standard tools and methods. Finally, students will develop an understanding of the emerging technologies in data collection and analysis.

View detailed information in the Handbook

AIMS

AIMS

River basins are challenged by increasing population pressures, rapid urbanization and climate change impacts. A river basin is a semi-closed ecological and economic system, representing logical management units of the water cycle, throughout which all decisions and actions have interdependent ecological, social and economic implications. Thus, river basin management needs interdisciplinary knowledge. This subject aims to equip tomorrow’s water managers with the adaptive approach by linking cutting edge knowledge to stress-tested practices in river basin management.

In addition to 10 weeks of classroom teaching, this subject includes a 5-7 day field trip held in either China or Australia, to be held in the first week after the exam period. Students are expected to make a contribution towards the cost of the field trip.

View detailed information in the Handbook

The course covers the fundamentals of spatial analysis for ecosystem management and conservation problems. Students will develop skills in the application of remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for landscape analysis of data. Methodologies for collecting, analysing and interpreting spatial data will be considered through theoretical and practical approaches. These will include data collected by drones through to satellite derived measures at a continental to global scale. Students will learn the spatial skills essential to environmental management by applying industry standard tools and methods. Finally, students will develop an understanding of the emerging technologies in data collection and analysis.

View detailed information in the Handbook

This subject explores the role of marketing and consumption in a world facing significant social and environmental challenges. What is the role of marketing and marketers in climate change, digital privacy, or the obesity crisis? Does marketing actually improve consumers’ wellbeing? Many ‘ethical’ consumers now integrate their concern for society and the environment into their purchasing decisions. And many ‘ethical’ brands now promote their social and/or environmental credentials. So, can we market and consume our way out of these crises? This subject will address the criticisms of marketing’s role in sustainability issues, and then equip students with the strategic and ethical direction to respond proactively to the opportunities these challenges provide.

View detailed information in the Handbook

Terrestrial ecosystems provide a wide range of values—from biodiversity and carbon storage to clean water and recreational opportunities in interaction with social systems. Managing ecosystems to sustain these values requires understanding what values exist in a given ecosystem, their interactions with society and how they change over time and space. However, natural ecosystems and the social context within which they are embedded are inherently variable across scales—capturing the many ecosystem values presents a significant challenge. This unit will explore the principles of, and approaches to, ecosystem assessment and monitoring across both the biophysical and social domains. We will focus on developing practical skills in the design of social and biophysical assessments, data collection and the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data associated with natural resources and their management. Example assessment approaches include ecological monitoring, forest inventory, stakeholder analysis, participatory mapping and value-based conversations, among many others. We will draw on examples from a range of ecosystems around the world.

This subject will involve practicals and a three-day, pre-semester field trip.

View detailed information in the Handbook