Environmental Change and Management

The MSc in Environmental Change and Management at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address the complex challenges related to environmental change. This programme provides a rigorous foundation in environmental science, policy, economics, and management, enabling graduates to analyze and develop sustainable solutions for pressing environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. Students will engage with cutting-edge research and real-world case studies, gaining insights into the drivers, impacts, and mitigation strategies associated with environmental change. The curriculum combines foundational coursework in environmental change, environmental economics, and policy analysis with practical training in management and communication skills. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches necessary for effective decision-making in environmental management contexts. The program offers a diverse range of modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests within the field, such as conservation, sustainable development, or environmental governance. Additionally, students have access to the university’s extensive resources, including world-renowned research centers, fieldwork opportunities, and collaboration with leading experts in environmental sciences and policy. The MSc in Environmental Change and Management prepares graduates for careers in academia, governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, environmental consultancy, and international organizations, contributing to the development of innovative strategies for sustainable environmental management. Through its blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, the program aims to foster a new generation of environmental leaders equipped to tackle the planetary challenges of the 21st century and beyond.

Core Modules

 Overture: Welcome to the Anthropocene

 Specialist Training, Methods and Skills

Field Trips & Site Visits

Elective Seminars (24+)

Dissertation

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in any discipline.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Personal statement:2,500 words
• Written work:One essay of 2,000 words 
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships
• A number of Research Council awards are available each year from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), and Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC).

The MSc in Environmental Change and Management at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interactions within the environment and the various factors influencing environmental change. The program is designed for students interested in addressing urgent environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable resource management. It combines rigorous academic training with practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in policy, research, consultancy, or environmental management. The curriculum includes core modules in environmental sciences, policy analysis, and management techniques, complemented by optional courses allowing specialization in areas such as climate policy, conservation biology, or sustainable development. Students benefit from coursework, group projects, and fieldwork, as well as access to Oxford's world-class resources, including research centers and institutes dedicated to environmental and ecological studies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, scientific analysis, and effective communication to equip students with the ability to develop innovative solutions for environmental challenges. Graduates of this program pursue careers in government agencies, NGOs, consultancy firms, research institutions, and international organizations. The program typically spans one year of full-time study and fosters a collaborative learning environment with a vibrant academic community. Housed within the School of Geography and the Environment, the MSc in Environmental Change and Management benefits from the university’s strong focus on interdisciplinary research and global engagement. Applicants are expected to have a strong academic background in environmental sciences, geography, biology, or related fields, along with an interest in policy and management issues related to environmental change. The program also encourages external engagement and networking opportunities, including lectures by leading experts and participation in conferences. Overall, the MSc aims to develop adaptable, knowledgeable professionals capable of making significant contributions to sustainable environmental management worldwide.