Data Science for Environmental Sustainability (MSc)

Data Science for Environmental Sustainability (MSc)

Full time

Why study this course

Unlock the power of data science with an MSc focused on providing sustainable solutions to critical environmental challenges.

The urgent need to address the global environmental crisis is increasingly evident in the consequences of climate change, from Australian wildfires to widespread flooding in Pakistan and severe droughts across Africa. These crises, exacerbated by resource depletion, population growth, and environmental degradation disproportionately impact climate-vulnerable countries. They demonstrate how desperately we need innovative solutions and sustainable practices, driven by experts with specialist knowledge and expertise.

This programme is designed to help you understand and address these pressing global environmental challenges. It will give you a thorough grounding in advanced data science and how this can be applied to issues of environmental sustainability. Vital context is provided by the integration of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the curriculum. This combination equips you with the necessary tools and knowledge to conduct thorough environmental analyses and make informed decisions using diverse data sources.

You will develop a comprehensive set of key skills, including big-data analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and computational methods targeted at environmental sustainability. As well as acquiring solid theoretical knowledge you’ll develop practical skills through hands-on projects and collaborative work within real-world contexts, preparing you to tackle environmental challenges effectively. You’ll have the flexibility to choose from a range of optional modules so that you can tailor your learning to your area of interest.

Upon completing the programme you’ll have advanced skills in data management, analysis, visualisation and interpretation, positioning you to actively shape and implement effective sustainable policies and practices. You’ll be well prepared for roles in environmental consultancy, policy-making and industries focused on enhancing sustainability.

Our practical approach to applying data to environmental issues will ensure you are able to make a valuable contribution to projects that support sustainable development and climate resilience, further advancing global sustainability goals.

Data Science for Environmental Sustainability (MSc)

Full time

Careers and placements

The MSc is designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience highly valued by employers in the environmental sector. It prepares you for a diverse array of career paths, ensuring you are well-positioned to address pressing environmental challenges through data-driven solutions.

Potential Career Paths

As a graduate you’ll be well-equipped to pursue a variety of career paths in both governmental and non-governmental organizations, environmental consultancies, insurance companies, and related industries. Potential job roles include:

• Environmental Data Analyst
• Sustainability Consultant
• Climate Change Analyst
• Remote Sensing Specialist
• Environmental Risk Assessor
• Policy Advisor/Analyst
• Project Manager in Environmental and Sustainability Projects

Career preparation and skills development

The programme closely aligns with the University's graduate attributes, ensuring that students not only acquire disciplinary knowledge but also develop transferable skills and qualities that are highly sought after by employers. Key graduate attributes include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, adaptability, and ethical responsibility. These attributes are cultivated through a range of learning activities, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and group projects, ensuring you develop and demonstrate your abilities in diverse contexts.

Industry engagement and practical experience

Certain modules feature guest lectures and workshops delivered by alumni and industry experts. These sessions provide real-world perspectives and practical insights, enriching your learning experience and offering valuable networking opportunities. Additionally, the dissertation project offers opportunities to collaborate with industrial and academic supervisors to conduct detailed research on a topic of your choice. This collaboration provides hands-on experience and helps you build professional relationships, further preparing you for the workforce.

Support for career development

You will also have access to the University’s Student Futures, which offers guidance and support to enhance your employability, helping you to identify and pursue opportunities that align with your career aspirations.

Overall, the MSc provides a comprehensive educational experience that combines deep theoretical insights with extensive practical applications and industry engagement. This ensures you are well-prepared to make significant contributions to the field of environmental sustainability and excel in your future career.

Placements

We work with industrial and academic partners to support dissertation development and supervision. You will have the opportunity to develop these links during dissertation development in Semester 2.