Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science

At the end of the program, students of the Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science can: 

1. Apply high level, independent judgement when planning, monitoring and evaluating Environmental Science issues to develop creative solutions.
2. Communicate advanced knowledge, concepts and skills in Environmental Science to industry, government and consultants.
3. Demonstrate management skills by planning, implementing and evaluating Environmental Science tasks.

This course provides students with exposure to industry/organisations as an integrated part of their units. This provides an excellent springboard for employment following this degree. Employment opportunities will be in local government, industry, state, national government and non-government organisations, particularly in the biology, ecology, mining and research sectors.

Higher education

Academic admission requirements (Band 6) may be satisfied through completion of one of the following:

• Bachelor degree; or

Work and Life

• Equivalent prior learning including at least five years relevant professional experience.

English Proficiency Requirements

Students can satisfy English competency requirements by showing any 

of the following:

• An IELTS Academic Overall band minimum score of 6.5 (no individual band less than 6.0).
• Completion of a Bachelor degree from a country specified by ECU.
• Completion of 0.375 EFTSL of study at postgraduate level or higher at an Australian higher education provider (or equivalent).
• Equivalent prior learning courses including at least five years relevant professional experience – as accepted by ECU.
• Completion of other tests, courses or programs as accepted by ECU

Reduce the time it takes to finish your degree. For eligible students, ECU offers credit and recognition of prior learning (CRPL). There are 2 CRPL options: 

• Credit transfer to acknowledge students’ formal learning at uni or TAFE. 

• Recognition of students’ informal learning gained outside of the education system (for example workplace experience or volunteer training.)

Designed for professionals who require the skills and knowledge to integrate environmental planning, conservation and monitoring into the broader decision-making of their organisations.

The course covers the areas of environmental impact assessment, planning and monitoring in the context of our major ecosystems, and emphasises the global, regional and local nature of environmental issues. Students also learn about environmental management systems, environmental auditing, risk assessment and water demand management.

Recommended Study Pattern

As a guide, core subjects in this degree can include:

• Sustainability Assessment and Reporting
• Environmental Impact Assessment Procedures
• Environmental Monitoring and Investigation
• Biostatistics
• Integrated Environmental Management

Students are required to select 1 (ONE) unit from the following core options

• Management of Waste
• Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems
• Biological Conservation
• Biological Conservation

As part of your application, you’ll be guided through how to get the right degree structure in place for you.