Discover our courses in this area

Applied Meteorology and Climatology MSc

The University of Birmingham is proud to be a member of the Met Office Academic Partnership. Find out more.

Weather and climate are integral parts of the Earth system. The monitoring of meteorological variables, together with the knowledge and modelling of underlying processes, are key to understanding our interaction with the natural environment.

This programme provides comprehensive training in understanding, modelling and prediction of atmospheric processes; as well as the collection, management, supply and application of atmospheric data for the needs of a variety of public and private sectors. The course also demonstrates how these create opportunities or pose problems for the successful operation of natural and human systems. Our aim is that upon graduation you will be able to compete for careers in Meteorology and Climatology.

Environmental Science MSci

Our Environmental Science MSci, built around our impressive research record, will allow you to develop an in-depth understanding of the Earth’s most complex environmental problems.

We will give you the knowledge and skills you need to help resolve the world’s most pressing problems in a sustainable way.

There is a growing need for graduates with a strong scientific background but who are also able to apply their knowledge to environmental management and protection globally.

The Environmental Science MSci degree is designed around three key themes – understanding environmental processes and systems; investigating changes and impacts; and enabling their prediction and mitigation.

This programme has been designed to provide choice and flexibility whilst ensuring that you develop appropriate skills with a sound scientific foundation. The course includes both core modules taken by all Environmental Science students, and selected optional modules which allow you to concentrate on themes which are of particular interest to you.

Our MSci Environmental Science programme offers the opportunity for you to follow your interest in the area more fully, and to develop key skills for career development. The MSci uses the same modules as the BSc degree for the first three years, followed by an additional specialist fourth year.


IES logo thumbnailOur programmes in Environmental Science are accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES).

Environmental and Engineering Geoscience BSc

The programme prepares environmentally aware students for graduate employment within the rapidly expanding field of applied geoscience, in areas including engineering geology, resource geology and environmental assessment. Graduates will have a broad-based geoscience knowledge and will be in strong positions to contribute to addressing the global and societal challenges that we face in the coming decades.

The programme has close links with the current Earth Sciences programme portfolio, providing a foundation in the understanding of Earth's composition, history and processes.  It incorporates its own engineering and environmentally-based modules, and content from the School of Engineering, as well as opportunities for placements with external partners. 

No previous knowledge of geology is assumed.  Fieldwork forms an integral part of the programme.  Students can tailor their degree to their particular interests and aptitudes; optional modules will provide opportunities to follow more engineering- or environmentally-focused programmes.  Independent project work comprises a major part of the programme.

Global Environmental Change and Sustainability BSc

In an era where understanding and addressing global environmental change is imperative, our program stands at the forefront of educating the next generation of environmental leaders.

We delve into the complexities of environmental change, exploring its causes, impacts, and the routes to developing sustainable solutions for Earth’s resource management. This is more than a course; it's a call to action for those ready to make a difference by tackling humanity's most pressing challenges.

Empowering Graduates for a Sustainable Future

Our program is meticulously designed to prepare students for diverse career opportunities in industries at the vanguard of environmental solutions. As the world grapples with escalating environmental changes, there is increasing demand for environmental and sustainability experts. Our graduates emerge as pioneers in sustainable management across vital sectors such as energy, natural resources, food security, biodiversity, and natural hazard mitigation. As well as the 3-year GECS programme, you have various other 4-year degrees to choose from:

  • Placement Year: Gain real-world experience with a year in industry. Previous organisations have included, Environment Agency, Sustainability West Midlands, ARUP, Birmingham City Council, Sustrans, Highways agency and many more.
  • Year in Civic Leadership - Receive professional leadership training alongside experience working on sustainability problems with our Industry partners. 

  • Year Abroad: Expand your horizons with international study opportunities. (locations include the US, Canada, Australia, Asia, Scandinavia and many more)
  • MSci: Deepen your expertise with our extended MSci programme and research the solutions to key problems such as biodiversity, climate change and global catastrophic risks.

Interdisciplinary Approach for Holistic Understanding

We believe in a comprehensive educational journey, blending scientific rigour with sociological, ethical, and external perspectives. Optional modules include those in various schools across the university drawn from across the Life and Environmental Sciences ( Biosciences, Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, Geography) and beyond (including Philosophy, History, Engineering and others). Our students gain a robust scientific foundation in Earth and environmental processes, enriched by insights into the human-ecological interface. This interdisciplinary approach ensures our graduates are not just knowledgeable but versatile, equipped with analytical skills, and adept at crafting innovative sustainable solutions.

Global Environmental Change and Sustainability MSci

In an era where understanding and addressing global environmental change is imperative, our program stands at the forefront of educating the next generation of environmental leaders.

We delve into the complexities of environmental change, exploring its causes, impacts, and the routes to developing sustainable solutions for Earth’s resource management. This is more than a course; it's a call to action for those ready to make a difference by tackling humanity's most pressing challenges.

Empowering Graduates for a Sustainable Future

Our program is meticulously designed to prepare students for diverse career opportunities in industries at the vanguard of environmental solutions. As the world grapples with escalating environmental changes, there is increasing demand for environmental and sustainability experts. Our graduates emerge as pioneers in sustainable management across vital sectors such as energy, natural resources, food security, biodiversity, and natural hazard mitigation. As well as the 3-year GECS programme, you have various other 4-year degrees to choose from:

  • Placement Year: Gain real-world experience with a year in industry. Previous organisations have included, Environment Agency, Sustainability West Midlands, ARUP, Birmingham City Council, Sustrans, Highways agency and many more.
  • Year in Civic Leadership - Receive professional leadership training alongside experience working on sustainability problems with our Industry partners. 

  • Year Abroad: Expand your horizons with international study opportunities. (locations include the US, Canada, Australia, Asia, Scandinavia and many more)
  • MSci: Deepen your expertise with our extended MSci programme and research the solutions to key problems such as biodiversity, climate change and global catastrophic risks.

Interdisciplinary Approach for Holistic Understanding

We believe in a comprehensive educational journey, blending scientific rigour with sociological, ethical, and external perspectives. Optional modules include those in various schools across the university drawn from across the Life and Environmental Sciences ( Biosciences, Environmental Science, Earth Sciences, Geography) and beyond (including Philosophy, History, Engineering and others). Our students gain a robust scientific foundation in Earth and environmental processes, enriched by insights into the human-ecological interface. This interdisciplinary approach ensures our graduates are not just knowledgeable but versatile, equipped with analytical skills, and adept at crafting innovative sustainable solutions.

Why study this course?

This programme is uniquely designed to give students experience and understanding of the intersecting challenges that characterise global environmental change and the development of more sustainable approaches. Building on a strong scientific foundation, you will also work with social scientists, study ethical and economic dimensions of global change, and work with external partners to seek sustainable solutions to real-world problems.

  •  Unique Curriculum Design: Experience the synergy of science and society as you explore the multifaceted aspects of global environmental change. Our curriculum is grounded in science yet expands to embrace social, ethical and economic dimensions of Global Environmental Change, ensuring a well-rounded understanding.

  • External contributors: Opportunity for students to interact with and learn from a diverse range of professionals, both from academic experts, practitioners and the sustainable business community. It highlights the program's commitment to providing a broad, real-world perspective on environmental sustainability issues.

  • Research Excellence: Learn from internationally acclaimed researchers in a program renowned for its research excellence, with the University of Birmingham ranked 3rd in the UK for 'Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences'

  • Collaborative Learning Environment: Engage with a diverse cohort of students and faculty from various disciplines. Our emphasis on teamwork mirrors real-world problem-solving scenarios, synthesising information, critical analysis and fostering a collaborative spirit that extends beyond university walls.

  • Field expeditions to environmental and sustainability projects and businesses: We explore active projects at the Birmingham Institute of Forest Research (BIFoR), the University of Birmingham’s Net Zero lodges, and Tyseley Energy Park.

  • Customizable Learning Pathways: Tailor your degree with thematic pathways organised around Sustainable Earth, Climate, Ecosystems, and Society. Our flexible module choices encourage a personalised educational journey, enriched by the diverse perspectives of your peers.

  • Chance to get involved in various sustainability activities, including additional courses, student-led sustainability initiatives and extra-curricular projects within the university and wider partners: Get Involved - University of Birmingham

Air Pollution Management and Control MSc/Diploma

The McCall MacBain Clean Air Fellowship - The Next Generation of Clean Air Leaders

McCall MacBain Foundation logo

CleanAirFund-Logo-Grey-RGB-300x163

The Clean Air Fund and the University of Birmingham, with the support of the McCall MacBain Foundation, are launching the McCall MacBain Clean Air Fellowship, to develop the next generation of leaders for the clean air movement. Clean Air Fund and the University of Birmingham will select five exceptional students, two from the UK and three from Central and Eastern Europe, to pursue a master’s degree in Air Pollution Management and Control as McCall MacBain Clean Air Fellows. The Fellowship will identify those who can demonstrate a strong rationale for studying air pollution and can commit to tackling the problem through their career choice after they graduate. The Fellowship will include course fees and a stipend to cover living and travel costs. Fellows will benefit from a tailored programme of masterclasses and career development opportunities such as practical experience and networking provided by the University and the Clean Air Fund.

The deadline for applications is June 2024.

Find out more  

Air pollution damages human health, ecosystems and vegetation, and is expected to worsen in many regions. Every year, air pollution costs EU economies US$ 1.6 trillion and is linked to 7 million premature deaths globally. Developing effective strategies for the management and control of air pollution is a key environmental challenge facing society today.

This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the causes and effects of air pollution and climate change, and the management measures and engineering technologies Clean Air. This is a recognised and sought after qualification within the professional environmental field in the UK and abroad. Students successfully completing the course very readily find employment as air quality experts within environmental consultancies, industry or local government departments.

Accreditation
CHES accredited logo

This programme is accredited by the Committee of Heads of Environmental Sciences (CHES), the education committee of the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES). CHES is the collective voice of the environmental sciences academic community and serves to enhance the quality of environmental education worldwide. A programme accredited by CHES is assured to meet high standards, contain a strong component of practical, field and theoretical activities, and has excellent opportunities for training, work experience and links to the professional environmental sector. Students enrolled on CHES accredited programmes can apply for free Student Membership of the IES and for a fast-track route to membership once they graduate, starting you on a route towards becoming a Chartered Environmentalist or Chartered Scientist.

IAQM logoThe programme is also accredited by the Institute of Air Quality Management