Environmental Science

Aim of the programme

The unsustainable management of natural resources hampers human development and exacerbates human inequalities. Pollution, depletion of natural resources, the disintegration of ecological functions, and ineffectual policies are matters of local, regional and global concern. Economic development and rising living standards in the developing world, set against increased pressures on the environment contribute to the urgency of these issues. Preventing further degradation of the environment, and the damage to human society that follows, requires new approaches for sustainable interactions between people and their environment. Sustainability depends on a balancing use and conservation of environmental resources. The challenge to sustainable development is to increase food supply and human welfare, while minimising and counteracting any negative impacts on the environment.

To find sustainable solutions and improve the quality of human life, we must first understand the processes that sustain natural systems, how these systems function and how they interact with one other and with human society. The Environmental Science MSc Programme develops the understanding of these processes and how in your day-to-day work to apply this knowledge for better natural resource management. During the programme you will learn to analyse and assess environmental systems and problems; be able to propose sustainable solutions; and understand the social complexities and challenges of environmental problems. During the final phase of the programme, you will produce an independent scientific research project that brings together the critical thinking developed through the individual modules of the programme.

Programme contents

The Environmental Science MSc Programme equips professionals with the necessary capacities by offering a systems approach. This means you will investigate subsystems and their interactions at global, regional and local scale, without losing sight of the overall picture. The programme balances a thorough knowledge of the disciplines taught and the added value of bringing these disciplines together in one coherent programme.

Desired profile

Admission is open to all suitably qualified applicants with a focus and interest to meet future water environmental challenges in the developing world and countries in transition. The programme is intended for students and professionals with an interest in environmental sciences and in maintaining environmental integrity to support human development. Suitable academic backgrounds include a BSc or MSc in natural sciences, chemistry, environmental science, agriculture, geography, environmental economics, planning and management or engineering. Professional experience in a relevant area is desirable.

Basic knowledge of mathematics, physics and chemistry is a prerequisite. Computer literacy is a valuable asset. Good conversational, reading and writing capabilities in the English language are essential in order to successfully complete the study.

Career

Graduates of the Environmental Science programme start or resume a career dealing with water policy and planning, research and/or environmental regulation in the water sector or related sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture or mining. Career paths include, but are not limited to:

• public administration: central and local governments (urban water and wastewater authorities, water boards, water and environment ministries).
• private sector, e.g. consulting engineering firms.
• academia and research institutes.
• NGOs and international organizations (UN, Worldbank, OAS etc.).