Overview

This programme is aimed at talented graduates seeking to develop or enhance their expertise in the fields of environmental policy, management, protection and advocacy.

It is led by the School of Geographical Sciences, ranked #1 in the UK for 'Geography and environmental studies' research (THE analysis of REF 2021) and a highly regarded centre for research and teaching in environmental processes, systems and the social sciences. Staff in the school have been directly involved in advising the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and regularly engage with policymakers, industry and non-profit organisations at local, national and international levels.

The programme is closely affiliated with the University's Cabot Institute, which promotes multidisciplinary research around global environmental change and benefits from our location in the city of Bristol, the UK's first ever European Green Capital and a vibrant hub of environmental activism and technological innovation.

Through a demanding academic curriculum and practice-based learning opportunities, you will develop the skills and knowledge needed for employment in the public, private and non-profit sectors.

Programme structure

The programme consists of six taught units and a dissertation research project. Some units are taught by natural scientists, and cover the fundamentals of climate science and the analysis of remotely sensed data. Others are delivered by social scientists, and provide training in areas such as environmental governance, policy analysis and statistical methods. An optional Consultancy Project unit provides an opportunity to develop a range of practical skills through an extended team-based project that is of interest to one of our partner organisations.

The final third of the programme involves the completion of an independent research dissertation on an environmental topic of your choosing, enabling you to further develop your research skills and make your own contribution to academic and policy debates about ongoing environmental controversies.

Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Environmental Policy and Management.

Entry requirements

A strong upper second-class honours degree (65% or higher) or international equivalent in social sciences, physical sciences or humanities. Applicants with a degree in any physical science orother non-standard subjects must also demonstrate competency in essay writing skills, with at least 65% achieved in essay-based modules. Applicants with a degree in a subject not listed above or with a lower class of degree will be required to demonstrate strong relevant work experience of at least one year and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.

Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.

Go to admissions statement

If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level C.

Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.

Fees and funding

UK: full-time
£11,400 per year
UK: part-time (two years)
£5,700 per year
Overseas: full-time
£25,900 per year

Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.

More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.

Alumni discount

University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.

Funding for 2023/24

Students from developing Commonwealth countries may be eligible to apply for the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, University of Bristol Think Big Postgraduate Scholarship, and the School of Geographical Sciences Phyllis Mary Morris Bursaries.

Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.

Career prospects

Our graduates have gone on to work in environmental consulting, the civil service, multilateral agencies, environmental management, conservation, marketing and communications, and a range of private companies in areas such as sustainable housing, transport and energy.