MSc in Environmental Science

The MSc in Environmental Science equips students from diverse scientific backgrounds with the practical and theoretical skills needed to tackle the biggest environmental challenges of our time. The degree includes training in analytical sciences and data analysis, modeling techniques, remediation practices, and reconstruction of biogeochemical processes from the atmosphere to soils, rivers, and oceans.

The course includes a capstone field-based exercise into a globally recognized environmental disaster site, such as Rio Tinto, Spain, and concludes with a dissertation centered around an independent environmental impact assessment project. The course is suitable for motivated graduates with a background in biology, chemistry, physics, or natural sciences such as geology, environmental science, or geography who seek employment in the professional environmental sector or research opportunities at the Ph.D. level.

Course details

The MSc in Environmental Science is a taught postgraduate program run by the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences.

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

The course includes a set of core modules that provide graduate-level training on world-class analytical equipment and the application of this knowledge to quantitatively assess natural and polluted systems. The range of optional modules allows students to tailor the degree to their personal background, interests, and career goals spanning from managing Earth’s natural resources to studying the oceans, atmosphere, and climate change.

Highlights

• Field excursion to a real-world site of extensive pollution (currently planned to be in Rio Tinto, Spain)
• The dissertation project centered around an environmental impact assessment
• Training in industry-standard software packages, including GIS, R, Python, Geochemist’s Workbench, and PHREEQC
• Year-long training in field skills and sample analyses
• Preparation for employment in the private or public sector
• Small class sizes with frequent in-person interaction with your lecturers.

The University of St Andrews has a world-class reputation and offers a wider student experience with a diverse range of social activities, including over 150 student societies and 50 sports clubs. Historic buildings are juxtaposed against the modern facilities, and the many student traditions truly make studying at St Andrews an unforgettable experience.

St Andrews is a unique and captivating place, and the University is a key part of its charm. Seven centuries of history link the students with the town, leading to the ancient and yet modern institution apparent today.

Why St Andrews

St Andrews is a unique place to study and live. Nestled on the east coast of Scotland, students may find themselves crossing golf courses on their way to class, or jogging along the beach after dinner. Not only does the University have a world-class reputation, but it also offers a diverse range of social activities, including over 140 student societies and 50 sports clubs. Historic buildings are juxtaposed against the modern facilities, and the many student traditions truly make studying at St Andrews an unforgettable experience.