Environmental Management (MSc, Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate)
Is this programme for me?
Design and implementation of solutions to current issues of global environmental
concern requires both specialists and well trained managers capable of working within,
between and across disciplines. This programme provides the necessary multidisciplinary training
and is relevant to those concerned with the management of natural resources and the formulation
and implementation of policies that create environmental improvements at local,
national and international levels, and in community, corporate and government organisations.
Programme aims
The programme leads to the following learning outcomes for students:
- a sound understanding of the principal environmental policy issues confronting managers in diverse geographical and culture situations
- an awareness of the ethical and moral issues involved in seeking the wise and sustainable use of resources
- a range of relevant practical skills, particularly in the fields of impact assessment, audit and law.
Professional recognition
The MSc and Postgraduate Diploma in Environmental Management are approved by the Institute of
Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA), subject to the completion of specified
modules. Completion of either of these qualifications can provide exemption from the training requirement
for Associate membership of the IEMA. In order to qualify for recognition, you will be required
to study the elective modules in 'Managing social and environmental responsibility' (C167) and
'International environmental law' (C114).
Aiming to be the international leader for environmental sustainability professionals, the IEMA
is a non-profit membership organisation that promotes best practice standards in environmental
management, auditing and assessment. IEMA promotes sustainability through environmental practice
and performance, and supports professional development of individuals involved in the
environmental profession in the public, private and non-governmental sectors. Benefits of IEMA
membership include access to: regional and national events, publications, workshops, negotiated
deals for professional indemnity insurance, website and special interest groups. For more information
see: www.iema.net/ (external link).
Programme summary
| You study | Study period | Cost (2011) | |
| MSc | 10 modules | 2-5 years | £9,200 |
| Diploma | 8 modules | 2-5 years | £7,215 |
| Certificate | 4 modules | 1-5 years | £3,770 |
| Short courses | Single modules are ideal if you're keen to update your professional knowledge, enhance your career or sample the programme. Short course students who subsequently register for either the MSc or Postgraduate Diploma will be credited with any modules completed successfully. In 2011, the fee per module is £960. | ||
Career progression
Graduates of this programme will typically find work or will already be working in:
- government ministries and related agencies, performing environmental planning and/or policy analysis work
- private companies and consultancies, providing an environmental analysis of work being undertaken
- corporations implementing programmes to meet goals of social and environmental
responsibility - research and educational institutions involved in environmental management and sustainable development
- international and non-governmental organisations concerned with economic development and environmental change
- charitable trusts and organisations carrying out conservation and educational field work.
Comprehensive study materials and support
For each module we send you detailed study guides, textbooks and supplementary study materials which may include computer software. Most module study guides are now provided in electronic CD-ROM format. Tutorial support is via an online learning environment and tutor-marked assignments. Increasing numbers of students participate in electronic seminars and other networked activities. This allows for a range of contacts and peer-learning possibilities that will help to enrich the distance learning experience.
Your time commitment
The study time required for each module is, on average, 7-8 hours per week over a period of 30 weeks (plus 4 weeks for revision).
Summary of key dates
| Application deadline | 30 November | ||
| Registration deadline | 31 December | ||
| Programme starts | February | ||
| Examinations take place | October | ||
Julie Clarke
MSc Environmental Management graduate, South Africa.
“In retrospect I could not possibly imagine a better way to be introduced to the world's leading minds on such a wide range of subjects and to have gained exposure to the world's most interesting and relevant case studies. As an external examiner and as a part-time lecturer in development studies for several universities and technicons, I was even more appreciative of the professional way the courses were put together, and the quality of the subject matters and tutors. By global standards this course was outstanding in every way.”