Air Pollution Management and Control MSc / PGDip

This course enhances your skills through a blend of taught modules and an independent research project. You’ll have the opportunity to conduct an in-depth investigation into specific aspects of air pollution that interest you, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding and practical experience in the field.

Course Structure

• Join a leading Russell Group University, with a strong reputation in Atmospheric Sciences
• An established course running successfully for over 10 years by staff who are leaders in their field
• The course is built upon successful air pollution practices in the UK

Students benefit from a cutting-edge curriculum, hands-on experience, and access to a network of industry professionals. This programme not only equips you with the skills to tackle air pollution challenges but also enhances your career prospects in the environmental sector, making you a highly sought-after professional globally.

On the research side, we operate a number of Aerosol particle Spectrometers and an Aerosol Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometer. For gaseous pollutants, monitors are available to monitor ozone, nitrogen oxides, sulphur dioxide, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, in addition to gas chromatographs which can detect a wide range of organic compounds.

The School operates its own weather station, and various meteorological instrumentation is available.

• Teaching is delivered through lectures, workshops and problem sessions, and off-campus visits to sites with specific air pollution challenges
• A variety of assessment methods are used, including written coursework, video documentary, case studies, oral presentations and standard examinations
• The major research project is assessed through a written dissertation and an oral examination

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

The following must be taken:

You must take one of the following:

A 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in a science or engineering subject, or an unrelated degree or a degree without honours followed by at least two years appropriate postgraduate experience.

2:2 Honours degrees in a science or engineering subject may also be considered depending on individual module marks in key subject areas.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking and 19 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill

English presessional programmes

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Tuition fee deposits for international students

International students undertaking a postgraduate taught degree are required to pay a tuition fee deposit before an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) can be issued.

Postgraduate Masters loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we have put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

You could work in air quality management, forecasting, regulation, industrial emission control, environmental and health impact assessment, and sectors like transport, energy, waste, and chemicals. 

Graduates secure jobs in environmental consultancy (UK and abroad), local and national government, the Environment Agency, and industry. Some pursue PhD studies.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.