Environmental Science, Policy and Management

Environmental Science, Policy and Management at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students for addressing complex environmental challenges in a rapidly changing world. This undergraduate degree combines scientific principles, policy analysis, and management strategies to equip students with the skills necessary to develop sustainable solutions for environmental issues locally, regionally, and globally. Throughout the program, students will engage in a rigorous curriculum that integrates coursework in environmental science, economics, legal frameworks, and governance, complemented by practical experience through fieldwork, research projects, and internship opportunities. The program emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling graduates to analyze environmental problems from multiple perspectives and to formulate effective policies and management plans. Students will also learn about the impact of human activities on natural systems, the importance of conservation, and the role of technology in environmental monitoring and mitigation. Interdisciplinary collaboration is a core aspect of the program, fostering teamwork across scientific and policy disciplines to provide holistic solutions. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in government agencies, non-governmental organizations, consulting firms, and international bodies engaged in environmental advocacy, policymaking, and sustainable development initiatives. With a strong emphasis on research excellence and community engagement, students will have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects and contribute to impactful environmental initiatives on local and global scales. By the end of their studies, graduates will be well-equipped to influence environmental policies, promote sustainable practices, and lead efforts toward a more sustainable future.

PhD program requirements are

1. Taking at least 12 credits of coursework including:
   • 6 credits from the Interdisciplinary Core Course List; and
   • 6 credits from the Elective Course List or other postgraduate course(s) approved by the supervisor and PG Coordinator. 
     ​Subject to approval from the PG Coordinator, students who have taken HKUST MPhil (ESPM) program will be granted credit transfer of up to a maximum of 9 credits. Students admitted to the program with a relevant master’s degree may be granted credit transfer on a case-by-case basis. In such case, the maximum number of credit transferrable is 6. 
2. Completion of and passing IDPO 6770 Professional Development for Interdisciplinary Programs (1 credit) and ENVR 6770 Professional Development in Environmental Science, Policy and Management (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 and ENVR 6770, subject to prior approval of the Division Head and PG Coordinator. The credits earned from IDPO 6770 and ENVR 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. HKUST MPhil (ESPM) graduates who have taken and passed IDPO 6770 before may be exempted from taking the same course, subject to prior approval from the Division Head and PG Coordinator.
3. Completion of and passing LANG 5080 English Seminar and Presentation Skills, and LANG 5081 Research Writing Skills. The 6 credits earned from LANG 5080 and LANG 5081 cannot be counted toward the credit requirements. Students can be exempted from taking LANG 5080 and/or LANG 5081 with the approval of the supervisor and the PG Coordinator.
4. Taking ENVR 6010 Postgraduate Seminar whenever it is offered.
5. Submission of a thesis proposal to the Qualifying Examination Committee who will examine the student’s general background knowledge and knowledge related to the topic of the research. Students must pass the qualifying examination no later than the forth term of study for full-time students, or the sixth term of study for part-time students.
6. Registration in ENVR 7990 Doctoral Thesis Research; and
7. Presentation and oral defense of the PhD 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

• Obtained a bachelor’s degree with a proven record of outstanding performance from a recognized institution; OR presented evidence of satisfactory work at the postgraduate level on a full-time basis for at least one year, or on a part-time basis for at least two years;
• Satisfied the specific requirements prescribed by the school and department concerned as to their chosen subject of research, as well as their fitness to undertake the research.
• 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. 

Scholarships

• Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)
• Postgraduate Studentships

The Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Policy and Management at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary education designed to address pressing environmental challenges facing both local and global communities. The programme aims to equip students with a solid foundation in environmental science, coupled with a strong understanding of policy formulation and management strategies necessary for sustainable development. Students will learn about ecological systems, environmental chemistry, biology, and geology, alongside courses in environmental law, economics, and policy analysis to prepare them for roles in environmental consultancy, government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector.

The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning through fieldwork, research projects, and internships, providing practical skills in environmental assessment, data analysis, and project management. Throughout their studies, students will explore topics such as climate change, resource management, pollution control, conservation strategies, and environmental ethics. The programme fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to complex environmental issues.

The faculty comprises renowned researchers and practitioners in environmental science and policy, ensuring that students receive instruction grounded in the latest scientific developments and policy debates. The university's strong partnerships with local and international agencies provide students with opportunities for internships and collaborative projects, enhancing their employability upon graduation. Graduates of this programme may pursue careers in environmental planning, environmental impact assessment, public policy, or further academic research. The university also promotes a vibrant student community with various extracurricular activities, seminars, and workshops focused on environmental issues, nurturing a lifelong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.