Environmental Research

The Environmental Research programme at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex challenges facing our planet today. Designed for students with a keen interest in environmental issues, the programme delves into the scientific, social, and policy aspects of environmental change and sustainability. Students will engage with cutting-edge research and methodologies to analyze issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, resource depletion, and sustainable development. The curriculum integrates perspectives from ecology, geology, chemistry, economics, and political science to equip graduates with a holistic understanding of environmental systems and the human actions that impact them. Throughout the programme, students will develop advanced skills in data analysis, fieldwork, laboratory research, and policy evaluation, preparing them for careers in academia, government, non-governmental organizations, or the private sector. The programme benefits from Oxford’s world-renowned research institutions and access to extensive archives, laboratories, and field sites. Students will have opportunities to participate in research projects, attend seminars, and collaborate with leading scientists and policymakers. The programme emphasizes critical thinking and innovative approaches to solving environmental problems, fostering a new generation of experts committed to promoting sustainability and resilience. By the end of their studies, graduates will be well-equipped to contribute to research, policy development, and environmental management on local, national, and global scales.

Core Training Programme Courses (Terms 1 & 2)

Programming and Software Carpentry: The goal of this two week course is to provide a basic introduction to C and Python, as well as to cover some useful software carpentry skills for research computing.

Mathematics: This has two streams, essential and advanced, to help all students top up their maths skills regarless of whether they haven’t used their maths since GCSE or have a degree in a quantitative subject like Physics.

Scientific Computing: to revise (and in some cases, extend) the core mathematical techniques relevant to modelling in the environmental sciences; and to give a basic introduction to Scientific Computing in MATLAB.

The Earth System: This course introduces students to the key questions in environmental research and the current approaches available for answering them being used by researchers associated with the DTP in Environmental Research. It is divided into three separate  three day courses, one focussing on each research stream.

Methods in Environmental Research: will give students intensive, hands-on training in key research methodologies that underpin environmental research across the NERC remit such as earth observation, scientific chronology, 3D Topographic maps, isotopes and proxies.

Foundations for a Successful DPhil: will introduce students to the rules and requirements governing the DPhil degree as well as strategies to making the most of your time as a DPhil student.

Planning & Managing Research: will provide students with the tools necessary to initiate and execute their DPhil research project.

Communicating Research: through a series of short practical workshops, students will be trained in the best practices for communicating their research through a wide variety of media. During the first term training is primarily focused on preparing a research proposal and developing an online presence. The topics covered by this course evolve as students progress through the programme.

Graduate Research Seminars: from term 2 onwards a weekly seminar session hosted by students in each Research Stream will offer students the opportunity to discuss current literature with each other and with relevant faculty conducting research within that stream.

Grand Challenges Seminar: students will be responsible for organising the Grand Challenges Seminar series during the second term. This will include identifying the Grand Challenges in Environmental Research, inviting speakers and arranging the meeting space, hosting the events in the second term and reporting on it via the DTP Student Blog.

Impact & Engagement: from term 2, students will participate in an exciting array of training sessions aimed at building skills for achieving research impact in the public and private sectors.

Specialised Training Programme Courses (Term 2 and beyond)

Advanced Methods in Environmental Research: will offer focused training on selected research methodologies tailored to the skills requirements of DTP students as they undertake their DPhil research.

Advanced Modelling & Data Analysis: students will participate in a specified number of specialised quantitative skills courses according to their own expertise and training requirements.

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 archaeology, biology, botany, chemistry, computing, geography, geology, mathematics, meteorology, physics, statistics or zoology.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 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).

Although it is not required, in practice a master's degree is often helpful. 

Professional experience, especially research experience, is valuable and will be taken into consideration as a substitute for an academic qualification.

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

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Statement of purpose/personal statement:Around 500 words or one page
• Written work:Either one essay of 4,000 words or two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive range of funding options for students pursuing a degree in Environmental Research. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs designed to support both domestic and international applicants. One of the primary sources of funding is the Oxford University Scholarships, which include specific awards for students undertaking environmental and research-focused studies. These scholarships often cover tuition fees partially or in full and may include living expenses. Additionally, the university participates in competitive funding schemes such as the Clarendon Fund, which provides over 140 fully-funded scholarships annually to outstanding graduate students from around the world, including those specializing in environmental research disciplines.

External funding opportunities are also available through government bodies, charitable foundations, and industry partners. For example, the UK government offers postgraduate loans to eligible students, enabling them to finance their tuition and living costs. International students might qualify for specific national scholarships such as the Chevening Scholarships or Erasmus+ programs, which support study mobility across Europe. The university’s dedicated financial aid office provides personalized guidance to help applicants identify suitable funding sources and navigate the application processes.

Research students may also have access to external research grants and sponsorships, often secured through their supervisors or research groups. These grants can cover additional research expenses, conference travel, and fieldwork costs. Many environmental research programs emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration, which can open avenues for joint funding opportunities with environmental organizations and industry stakeholders. The university also offers part-time work opportunities and teaching assistantships to help students offset living expenses during their studies.

Finally, students are advised to keep abreast of deadlines and application requirements set by both the university and external bodies to maximize their chances of securing financial support. The university’s finance and admissions offices regularly update their websites with the latest information on available funding programs, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. Overall, Oxford provides a diverse array of financing studies options that aim to make environmental research education accessible and affordable for a broad spectrum of students.

The MSc in Environmental Research at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to address complex environmental challenges. Building on the university's longstanding tradition of academic excellence and research innovation, the program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines core scientific principles with practical research training. Students benefit from exposure to a broad range of topics, including climate change, ecosystems, environmental policy, biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable development. The program emphasizes analytical skills, fieldwork, and data analysis, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to environmental research, policy formulation, and sustainable management practices.

Throughout the course, students engage with leading experts in environmental science, gaining insights into cutting-edge research methods and emerging issues in the field. The program also fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging students to integrate perspectives from ecology, geology, chemistry, policy, and social sciences. Practical experience is emphasized through research projects, laboratory work, and field excursions, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

The MSc in Environmental Research typically includes a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research, culminating in a dissertation. Students are encouraged to develop their own research questions and methodologies, supported by academic supervisors with expertise in diverse areas of environmental science. The program also provides opportunities for engagement with environmental organizations and policymakers, fostering connections that can support future careers in academia, government, NGOs, or industry.

Entry requirements generally include a strong academic background in environmental science or related disciplines, alongside evidence of research potential and motivation. The duration of the program is typically one year for full-time students, with possibilities for part-time study in some cases. Graduates of the MSc in Environmental Research often go on to careers in research institutes, governmental agencies, environmental consultancy firms, or pursue further academic study, including PhDs.

Overall, the program aims to develop well-rounded environmental scientists capable of addressing the pressing environmental issues facing society today and in the future. The University of Oxford’s world-class reputation and extensive research network provide an ideal environment for students to grow academically and professionally, making this program a flagship offering for prospective students passionate about making a meaningful impact on environmental sustainability.