Master of Environmental Science

At the end of the program, students of the Master of Environmental Science can:

1. Reflect critically on a complex body of specialist knowledge and understanding of recent developments and methods applicable to the field of Environmental Science and related disciplines.
2. Apply cognitive, technical and creative skills drawn from a broad discipline base to investigate, analyse and synthesise complex ideas, concepts and theories in Environmental Science.
3. Apply communication skills to design innovative contributions to professional practice in Environmental Science.
4. Use high level self-management skills to initiate, plan and execute a substantial project in Environmental Science.

This course provides students with skills and experience in environmental science, focusing on project management, occupational health and safety, sustainability, monitoring and reporting.

It provides work experience in relevant organisations within the industry, allowing students to gain an understanding of the management of environmental projects. It also focuses on skills for the environmental, engineering, and sustainability professions and offers flexible study options through on-campus and off-campus study.

Recommended study pattern

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

• Bio-statistics

• Integrated Environmental Management

• Management of Waste

• Biological Conservation

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

Exit points

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $47,600

The amount shown here is indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

ECU is ranked one of the world’s best young universities and Australia’s best public university for teaching quality. That quality extends to more than 30,000 students, many studying online through Open Universities Australia. ECU offers the same quality of teaching to you, regardless of where you’re studying in the world. Their flexible study solutions include a huge range of online courses, recognising your need to juggle work, family or other commitments.

Learn more about ECU.

Explore ECU courses.

QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

29

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

24

The following course-specific admission requirements are mandatory and must be satisfied by all applicants. These requirements are in addition to or supersede the minimum requirements outlined within the Academic admission requirements band section below.

Special entry may be considered for students with a cognate first degree (or with appropriate experience) who can apply for a reduced course duration:

1.5 years full time (3 years part time) – 180 credit points

Admission is based on:

Bachelor degree in a related discipline*, or

Bachelor degree in any discipline, plus five years relevant work experience^, or

Graduate Certificate of Environmental Science (or equivalent), or

Evidence of academic capability judged to be equivalent.

*Related discipline refers to any environmental science / biology related discipline

^Relevant work experience constitutes Senior/Managerial positions to be approved by the Course Coordinator.

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

• Bachelor degree; or
• Equivalent prior learning including at least five years relevant professional experience.

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.)

Work Experience requirement

Students will undertake a project with an organisation under supervision of ECU and industry organisation staff.

Attendance requirements

Students will be expected to participate in a minimum of 456 hours working with an organisation on a project and produce a report on activities.

Clearances and/or Risk Management Protocols Required

Each project will have an agreement for student placement. Each work place will be inspected and the appropriate forms completed indicating it is a safe work environment for students. Every student will be required to complete a risk assessment and management plan as part of the WIL.