Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Infrastructure

Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Infrastructure is a comprehensive master's program offered at KTH Royal Institute of Technology, designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills necessary to address pressing environmental challenges through innovative engineering solutions. The program emphasizes sustainable development by integrating principles of environmental science, engineering, and infrastructure planning to create resilient, eco-friendly urban and rural environments. Students will explore topics such as water and waste management, renewable energy systems, pollution control, and sustainable transportation, all within the framework of sustainable infrastructure design and planning. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework, laboratory work, and real-world project experience, allowing students to develop technical expertise alongside problem-solving and project management skills. Collaborations with industry partners and research institutions provide students with opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects and stay abreast of the latest technological advancements. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, urban planning, infrastructure development, and environmental policy making, contributing to sustainable solutions at local, national, and global levels. Graduates will be well-equipped to evaluate environmental impacts, design sustainable systems, and implement innovative engineering strategies to promote environmental health and resilience. With a strong focus on multidisciplinary approaches, the program nurtures critical thinking and leadership skills essential for shaping the future of sustainable infrastructure worldwide.

Year 1

The program starts with two courses that provide a background in environmental assessment and management of environmental data that is fundamental to all engineers in the field of Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Infrastructure. From period 2 year 1 and onwards 4 or 5 conditionally elective courses per period are offered within the program.

Mandatory courses

• Research Methodology and Theory of Science 7.5 credits

Conditionally elective courses

• Environmental Measuring and Monitoring 7.5 credits
• Environmental Dynamics/Physical Processes 7.5 credits
• Water and Wastewater Handling 7.5 credits
• Environmental Impact Assessment 7.5 credits
• Environmental Data 7.5 credits
• Strategic Environmental Assessment 7.5 credits
• Applied Hydrology 7.5 credits
• Hydraulic Engineering 7.5 credits
• Governance of Land and Water 7.5 credits
• Environmental Chemistry and Risk Assessment 7.5 credits
• Urban Infrastructure 7.5 credits
• Political Economy for Environmental Planners 7.5 credits
• Sustainable Rural and Urban Development 7.5 credits
• Natural Resources Management Tools 7.5 credits

Year 2

One course – Theory and Methodology of Science with Applications (AK2036) – is mandatory and can be read at two alternative occasions, in year 1 period 3 or in year 2 period 1.

Mandatory courses

• Research Methodology and Theory of Science 7.5 credits

Conditionally elective courses

• Modelling of Water Systems 7.5 credits
• Water Treatment Processes and Technology 7.5 credits
• Engineering Geology 7.5 credits
• Project in Environmental Engineering 7.5 credits
• Foundation Engineering 7.5 credits
• Degree Project in Hydraulic Engineering, Second Cycle 30.0 credits
• Degree Project in Urban and Regional Planning, Second Cycle 30.0 credits
• Life Cycle Assessment 7.5 credits
• Ecosystem Support and Environmental Justice 7.5 credits
• Planning for Resilience 7.5 credits
• Applied Hydrogeology 7.5 credits
• Degree Project in Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Infrastructure, Second Cycle 30.0 credits
• Degree Project in Strategies for Sustainable Development, Second Cycle 30.0 credits

Degree project and thesis

The Master's thesis provides students with the opportunity to investigate a problem in –depth, under the supervision of experienced practitioners and researchers. The topic for the Master's thesis should be within the scope of the programme and relate to knowledge acquired in the courses. The thesis work is carried out in Sweden or abroad, and can be oriented towards research (e.g., laboratory / field work within a research project), technological development (at a company or organisation), or a combination of both.

Requirements

• A completed Bachelor's degree, corresponding to a Swedish Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS credits), or equivalent academic qualifications from an internationally recognised university.
• Students in their final year of undergraduate education may apply to KTH and, if qualified, receive conditional acceptance. If you have not yet completed your studies, please include a written statement issued by the degree awarding university. This statement must be certified and stamped by the Academic Registrar's Office, the Examinations Office or equivalent of the institution. Statements from other staff members, such as faculty members, will not be accepted.
• Students who are following longer technical programmes, and have completed courses equivalent to a Bachelor´s degree (180 ECTS credits), will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Cover sheet (generated from the web-based application). However, if you have a Swedish personal ID number or if you choose to upload your documents, the cover sheet is not required.
• Certificates and diplomas from previous education at an internationally recognised university.
• Transcripts of records (including course list). All courses taken and grades must be included. Sort them in reverse chronological order, i.e. put the last received document on top.
• Proof of English proficiency.
• A copy of your passport or some other document of identification. If you are from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland and are required to document your citizenship status in order to be considered exempt from paying application and tuition fees, your passport copy must be certified. If you are not a citizen of an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, certification of your passport copy is not required.
• Curriculum Vitae indicating relevant work experience
• IELTS A minimum overall mark of 6.5, with no section lower than 5.5 (only Academic Training accepted). 
• TOEFL Paper-based test: total result of 575 (written test, minimum grade 4.5)
• TOEFL  Internet-based test: total result of 90 (written test, minimum grade 20)

• A Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in the field of civil engineering, environmental engineering or another subject with clear relevance to the programme.

  In addition, at least two of the following competence profiles (A-D) must be met:

  A) Fluid Mechanics, 5 ECTS credits, Hydrology, 5 ECTS credits
  B) Economics, 7,5 ECTS credits
  C) General Chemistry and/or Environmental Soil Chemistry, 7.5 ECTS credits
  D) Earth Sciences, 6 ECTS credits

  Note that some courses within the programme require basic knowledge in mathematics corresponding to at least 20 ECTS and in numerical methods, programming or equivalent corresponding to at least 6 ECTS.

Scholarships

• KTH Scholarship
• Russian Presidency Scholarship for Abroad Studies

The Master's programme in Environmental Engineering and Sustainable Infrastructure at KTH Royal Institute of Technology offers students a comprehensive education focused on developing sustainable solutions for environmental challenges related to infrastructure systems. The program emphasizes the integration of environmental considerations into the planning, design, and management of infrastructure projects, including water supply, waste management, transportation, and urban development. Students will gain interdisciplinary knowledge in areas such as environmental science, civil engineering, systems analysis, and sustainable development, preparing them for roles in industry, consultancy, or research institutions. The curriculum typically includes core courses in environmental systems, sustainable urban infrastructure, hydraulics, and environmental pollutants, complemented by electives allowing specialization in areas like water resources, waste management, or environmental assessment. Practical experience is fostered through project work, laboratory exercises, and often an internship component, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The programme aims to contribute to the global efforts in combating climate change, reducing environmental footprint, and promoting sustainable urbanization. Graduates are equipped with the skills to develop innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions that meet societal needs while preserving environmental health. The program is often taught in English and attracts students from around the world, fostering an international learning environment with opportunities for collaborative projects and networking. Graduates of this programme are well-positioned to pursue careers in government agencies, environmental consultancies, engineering firms, or continue their research in academia. The programme also aligns with KTH’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, ensuring that students are prepared to meet the evolving demands of environmental management and infrastructure development in a changing world.