Environmental Science, Policy and Management

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Policy and Management at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology offers students a multidisciplinary education designed to address the complex environmental challenges facing our world today. This program integrates principles of environmental science, policy analysis, and management strategies to prepare graduates for impactful careers in environmental protection, sustainable development, and policy formulation. Throughout the curriculum, students will explore diverse topics including ecology, environmental chemistry, economics, law, and governance, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how scientific data informs policy decisions and management practices. The program emphasizes experiential learning through fieldwork, case studies, and internships with governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector partners, providing practical skills and real-world insights. Students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for assessing environmental issues and crafting sustainable solutions. The coursework is complemented by opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and research, encouraging innovative approaches to pressing global environmental problems such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource depletion. Graduates will be equipped to analyze environmental policies, develop management plans, and advocate for environmentally responsible practices across various sectors. The program’s emphasis on both scientific rigor and policy relevance aims to cultivate environmentally conscious leaders who can influence positive change. With a strong foundation in research methodologies and policy analysis, students will be prepared for careers in environmental consultancy, government agencies, international organizations, or pursue advanced studies in related fields. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s state-of-the-art facilities, distinguished faculty, and strategic location in Asia’s economic hub offer an ideal environment for engaging with regional and global environmental issues. Graduates from this program will be well-positioned to contribute to sustainable development goals and foster a more resilient and sustainable future for Hong Kong, Asia, and the world.

MPhil program requirements are:

1. Taking at least 9 credits of coursework including:
   • 6 credits from the Interdisciplinary Core Course List; and
   • 3 credits from the Elective Course List or other postgraduate course(s) approved by the supervisor and PG Coordinator.
2. Completion of and passing IDPO 6770 Professional Development for Interdisciplinary Programs (1 credit) within the first two years of study for full-time students, or four years for part-time students. Part-time students may be exempted from a maximum of 50% of mini-workshops of IDPO 6770, subject to prior approval of the Division Head and PG Coordinator. The 1 credit earned form IDPO 6770 cannot be counted toward the credit requirements. The hours earned from research seminars of this course cannot be used to fulfill the seminar requirement of the program.
3. Completion of and passing LANG 5081 Research Writing Skills. The 3 credits earned from LANG 5081 cannot be counted toward the credit requirements. Students can be exempted from taking LANG 5081 with the approval of the supervisor and the PG Coordinator.
4. Taking ENVR 6010 Postgraduate Seminar whenever it is offered.
5. Registration in ENVR 6990 MPhil Thesis Research; and
6. Presentation and oral defense of the MPhil thesis.

Interdisciplinary Core Course List

• ENVR 5290 Climate Change: Science, Policy and Management
• ENVR 6060 Sustainability Economics; or SOSC 5620 Sustainable Development

Elective Course List

• ENVR 5210 Environmental Microbiology
• ENVR 5250 Environmental Economics and Management
• ENVR 5260 Environmental Policy and Management
• ENVR 5410 Atmospheric Chemistry
• ENVR 6040 Special Topics in Environment
• ENVR 6050 Introduction to Oceanography
• EVSM 5270 Environmental Law
• EVSM 5280 Introduction to Atmospheric Aerosols
• EVSM 6070 Environmental Impact Assessment
• RMBI 4000B Environmental Risk Management

Requirements

• Applicants should submit their applicationsthrough the Online Admissions System, together with all required documents.
• Interviews / Phone Interviews
• Hold a Bachelor's degree
• You will fulfill the English Language requirements with one of the following proficiency attainments:TOEFL-iBT 80, TOEFL PBT 550, IELTS Overall score: 6.0
• You are required to nominate 2-5 referees to support your application. Upon your application submission, the referees will be invited by email to complete a reference report online. Referees may attach additional reference letters to the online report if they wish to.
• Remember that you will need to send official documents to substantiate your qualifications/ exam results after accepting an admission offer. 

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Policy and Management at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology offers several financing options for prospective students. Tuition fees are established annually and are subject to change; current estimates for international students are approximately HKD 145,000 per year, while local students may benefit from government subsidies and pay reduced rates. The university provides a variety of scholarships and financial aid packages to assist students in meeting their educational expenses. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement, and are available for both incoming and current students. Additionally, the university offers need-based financial assistance programs designed to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. These may include grants, bursaries, and work-study opportunities that allow students to offset their costs through part-time employment on campus. Students are encouraged to apply early for financial aid, as the availability of resources is limited and competitive. External funding sources, such as government student financial schemes, scholarships from charitable organizations, and private sector sponsorships, can also be pursued by students aiming to supplement their income. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides guidance and counseling to help students navigate the application processes and identify the most suitable financial support options. While tuition fees constitute a significant portion of the cost of attendance, students should also budget for living expenses, textbooks, and other academic-related costs. The university’s location in Hong Kong, a major financial and business hub, offers students opportunities for internships and part-time work, which can help finance their studies. Overall, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is committed to promoting accessibility and affordability in higher education by providing a range of financial support measures to ensure that talented students can pursue their academic goals regardless of financial background.

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Policy and Management at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology offers students a comprehensive education that integrates scientific principles with policy analysis and management strategies essential to addressing environmental challenges. This interdisciplinary program equips students with a solid foundation in environmental science, including ecology, geology, meteorology, and environmental chemistry, while also emphasizing policy development, environmental law, resource management, and sustainable development. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for diverse careers in environmental consulting, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector companies involved in environmental impact assessments, conservation, and policy formulation.

Students in this program have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning through laboratory work, field studies, and internships that connect academic learning with real-world applications. The program emphasizes the importance of scientific research in informing policy decisions and promotes a holistic understanding of the complex interactions between human activities and natural ecosystems. Coursework covers topics such as climate change, environmental economics, urban planning, renewable energy, pollution management, and international environmental agreements, fostering a well-rounded perspective on global and regional environmental issues.

Additionally, the program encourages critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical considerations in environmental management. Students are often involved in research projects, community outreach, and policy analysis exercises that develop their ability to assess environmental problems and propose viable solutions. The school provides excellent facilities, including modern laboratories and environmental research centers, facilitating advanced research and innovation.

Graduates of this program are well-prepared to contribute effectively to the development of sustainable policies and practices, supporting the global effort to achieve environmental sustainability and resilience. The curriculum is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure that students gain relevant skills and knowledge aligned with current environmental challenges and technological advancements. Overall, the program aims to produce environmentally conscious citizens who are capable of leading efforts to protect and manage our natural resources responsibly while fostering economic development and social well-being.