Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Environmental Consultancy (Nuclear Science)
Build the practical and technical skills needed for a successful career in the environmental sector, tackle global environmental challenges through an eight-week placement, and gain specialist insight into the nuclear industry.Real industry experience that leads to jobs
Gain invaluable insight through an exciting placement with leading environmental organisations – often resulting in graduates being offered permanent roles.
Hands‑on training with advanced field, lab and analytical tools
Develop in‑demand skills in areas such as habitat restoration, contaminated land and water assessment, GIS, waste management and marine surveying, using specialist University facilities and equipment.
Professional development aligned with industry standards
Build a portfolio of industry-ready coursework and work towards Chartered Environmentalist status – with a specialised module developed with Babcock and the MoD that opens the door to the nuclear sector.
Details
Year 1
Our MSc is designed by practising professionals from within the consultancy sector and reflects all of the key skills you need to thrive as a professional within the field of environmental consultancy and management. It includes a module developed with Babcock International and the UK Ministry of Defence that introduces you to the nuclear industry.
Learn from our environmental management expertise in areas such as data handling, environmental impact assessments including field survey work, environmental systems, professional practice, legislation and regulation as well as geographical information systems which are a key skill within the sector.
The MSc comprises a 12-week and 7-week period of taught modules with an 8-week environmental sector work placement and 18-week dissertation period. Practising consultants give an insight into opportunities within the environmental sector. All core modules reflect the outputs of the industry, readying you for your future career.
Module choice, placement organisation and dissertation project tailor your MSc to provide the strongest possible CV with which to gain the job you seek. Our close relationship with employers within the sector via our work placements ensures the MSc is fully up to date to provide you with the best possible for starting your career.
Core modules
GEES517
Environmental Assessment
20 credits
This module examines current legislation and guidance on, and methods of, environmental assessment, focussing on strategic environmental assessment (SEA) and environmental impact assessment (EIA). Through critical investigation of case studies, students will learn how to use methodologies to evaluate impacts on environmental receptors and communicate outcomes, including impact statements, to professional standards.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
GEES520
MSc Dissertation
60 credits
This is your chance to take on independent, postgraduate-level research project. You get to choose a topic that excites you, work with expert advisors, and dive deep into cutting-edge methods and analysis. You'll challenge ideas, explore new perspectives, and develop real expertise. In the end, you’ll present your findings in a dissertation and showcase your research - proving just how far you’ve come.
100% Coursework
GEES536
Environmental Knowledge: From Field to Stakeholder
20 credits
This module reviews qualitative and quantitative research methods relevant to professional and academic investigations in the field of policy-making, planning, management and consultancy in the built and natural environments. It encompasses the complete lifecycle of research (design, planning, data collection, knowledge dissemination and application), including stakeholder engagement across these stages.
100% Coursework
NUC5000
Going Nuclear: Nuclear Applications for Science and Engineering
20 credits
This module provides essential skills and understanding needed to excel in the nuclear industry, from fundamentals of nuclear fission and fusion to more intricate topics such as reactor functionality, safety, and nuclear waste management.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
Optional modules
GEES500
Professional Placement Experience
20 credits
This module provides an opportunity to experience professional practice via work experience with a company / host organisation. It will allow you to apply and develop your subject skills and knowledge, learn more about professional careers within the sector aligned to your degree, develop contacts with potential employers, and refine your career aspirations.
100% Coursework
GEES506
Climate Change: Science and Policy
20 credits
This module explores the science and policy of climatic change, including lessons from the past and the relevance of past climates to the global warming debate. We question climate change detection and attribution, feedbacks and uncertainty in climate change. We explore political actions through international political agreements and national policies and adaptation strategies and management of change in the UK
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES515
Professional Practice in the Environmental Sector
20 credits
This module examines the place of sustainability and environmental management in modern business practice, and prepares students for professional work experience in semester 2. It also provides students with a critical understanding of the principles, ethics and methods of environmental law and regulation, and examines the role of economics in characterising and addressing human interaction with the environment
100% Coursework
GEES532
Geohazards and the Built Environment
20 credits
This module will introduce geohazards and their impacts, exploring how to assess, monitor and mitigate them. Students undertake an assessment of a natural geohazard and produce a professional report on that assessment with a proposal for remediation. They will also learn about anthropogenic hazards and develop skills in public communication of these issues, via a practice based assessment.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
GEES533
Site Investigation and Land Quality
20 credits
This module introduces all the phases of a site investigation, including the assessment of contamination, how it may impact upon receptors and, remediation strategies. Students undertake a desk study and write a related report of known sites where historical land use may have impacted land quality. Non-intrusive assessment techniques and the use of novel and advanced remediation technologies are covered in the module.
100% Coursework
GEES538
Ecological Survey Evaluation and Mitigation
20 credits
Dive into the fascinating world of UK and European nature conservation. This module explores policies, species and habitat protection, ecological survey techniques, and habitat mapping. You'll learn industry-standard survey methodologies, study restoration options, and master approaches to compensation and mitigation. Equip yourself with vital skills for a future as an ecological consultant working in nature conservation.
60% Coursework
40% Practicals
GEES543
Water Management and Sustainability in Mining
20 credits
This module considers sustainable water resource management and mitigation of environmental damage from mining. Threats to ground and surface water resources are explored at all stages of mine operation from exploration to closure and reclamation. Students develop necessary theoretical geochemical, hydrological and hydrogeological knowledge to predict and manage outcomes according to current international best practice.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
MATH517
Big Data Visualisation and Analytics
20 credits
There is an ever increasing amount of Big Data available. You will learn state-of-the-art techniques for extracting valuable information and insights from Big Data. We'll teach you professional software to clean, visualize and analyse complicated datasets. We'll also provide you with experience of professional reporting your Big Data analyses.
100% Coursework
Thinking about study on MSc Environmental Consultancy?
We’re here to help you explore whether this is the next step for you. If you have questions about the course, career pathways, or what the course looks like, contact the Programme Lead
Dr Jessie Woodbridge , who will be happy to talk through your interests and ambitions and help you understand how the MSc can support your goals.
Part-time study
Part-time study will take place over two years.
If you choose to study part‑time, you’ll follow a fixed timetable. For further details about part‑time study structures, please email science.engineering@plymouth.ac.uk.
A focus on nuclear science and the environment
Developed in close partnership with Babcock International Group and the UK Ministry of Defence – the Going Nuclear: Nuclear Applications for Science and Engineering module sets this programme apart.
With the nuclear sector forecast to require an additional 40,000 qualified personnel nationally by 2030, this module is your introduction to that world – covering nuclear fission and fusion, reactor functionality, radiation protection and waste management, with a consistent focus on safety and the environment.
Hands-on workshops bring theory to life. University academics and Babcock and MoD professionals working at the heart of the nuclear enterprise will share their real-world insights and experiences that will prepare you for one of the most dynamic fields of science and engineering.
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Careers, industry and research
Real-world experience
The MSc offers valuable real‑world experience through an eight‑week placement, often leading to permanent employment. Work directly with organisations responsible for managing and protecting our environment across a wide range of specialisms, including:
- Marine ecology and conservation placements with organisations such as GoBe, Royal Haskoning DHV, Natural England, Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Marine Biological Association and RPS.
- Environmental consultancy experience with leading firms including Pell Frischmann, WSP, Atkins, AECOM, Royal Haskoning DHV, White Young Green, Arcadis, Black & Veatch, Ramboll and Mott MacDonald.
- Catchment management opportunities with the Westcountry Rivers Trust, Environment Agency, Natural England, and the Tamar, North Devon, South Devon, Blackdown Hills and Cornwall Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Ecology placements with FPCR, Richard Green Associates, EAD Ecology, Blackdown Environmental and Acorn Ecology.
Studying at Plymouth gave me the ideal balance between theoretical learning in lectures and hands‑on laboratory experience. Each week, what we covered in class directly linked to the practical work in the lab – from essential wet chemistry techniques to understanding how advanced analytical instruments operate. I found this experience invaluable as I can now help customers troubleshoot their laboratory instruments.
Jayan - MSc Environmental Consultancy graduate
Your career in environmental consultancy
We pride ourselves on an outstanding employability record, consistently helping our students step confidently into careers across the environmental sector.
Our MSc is designed to maximise your career prospects through built‑in networking opportunities, an eight‑week industry placement, and a dissertation project that can be carried out in collaboration with NGOs, consultants, industry partners and charities.
Our graduates secure competitive roles across the full spectrum of the environmental sector, despite a challenging economic climate.
A key driver of this success is the placement from March to May, where students contribute to real projects, meet clients and produce professional‑standard reports. Each year, several students are offered full‑time positions by their placement hosts, demonstrating the strong industry links and practical relevance of the programme.
Watch MSc Environmental Consultancy graduate Ryan's video about his role at GoBe Consultants
The Worshipful Company of Water Conservators Award
We are pleased to announce once again this year an award to the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Plymouth from London livery company the Worshipful Company of Water Conservators.
For informal enquiries about the award contact the course Programme Lead.
Applications for this award will close on 15 August 2026 and the successful applicant will be notified by the first week of September.
Applications must be submitted to GEES Enquiries: geesenquiries@plymouth.ac.uk with the title of the award in the title and the programme you are applying to.
Shaping tomorrow through world‑class research
As part of the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, we contribute to a strong collective of research groups – so you’ll benefit from insights into work at the forefront of the sustainability sector.
Be inspired by people who are dedicated to forging new knowledge in your chosen field.
One of my college lecturers... said the University is known for its world-leading research and could grow my potential further. I knew this would offer me a valuable introduction to the practical and professional side of natural conservation, giving me a clear understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of environmental study.
Polly – MSc Environmental Consultancy graduate
Discover our facilities
As student in the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences you will have access to a range of cutting-edge resources and facilities.
These will support your learning in the field and in the laboratory – whether in traditional chemistry lab or a high-performance computing room. Many are solely for the use of our students and researchers and you will also have access to
LABplus Resource Centre and the
Marine Station .
Our experts
Dr Jessie Woodbridge
Lecturer
Programme Lead
Dr Paul Lunt
Associate Professor in Environmental Science
Professor Ralph Fyfe
Professor
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification — it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
Our supportive teaching and welcoming student community means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The teaching standard at Plymouth was very high and was delivered in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere by experts in their field. Plymouth also has great facilities and industry contacts who gave guest lectures, providing opportunity for networking and career advice.
Elsa
MSc Sustainable Aquaculture* graduate
MSc Sustainable Aquaculture* graduate
*Programme renamed to MSc Sustainable Aquaculture and Fisheries
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer – get involved, stay connected and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with the Postgrad Society
The Postgrad Society welcomes all postgraduate students – whether full-time, part-time, taught or research-based - offering a supportive space to connect beyond academic pressures. Join a vibrant community where you can unwind, celebrate achievements and meet likeminded peers through a wide range of activities – from pub quizzes, movie nights, and beach cleans to trips along the South West coastal path and the annual Postgraduate Christmas Ball.
Events are thoughtfully planned around key postgraduate milestones and often in collaboration with other societies, so you can try new things and make the most of your university experience.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£11,000 per year
£11,000 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£610 per 10 credits
£610 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fee levy
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£21,000 per year
£21,000 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Scholarship opportunity
SRK (UK) is pleased to announce its scholarship programme for the academic year 2026/27, created to assist students undertaking a masters (MSc) degree in geochemistry or relates courses (geoscience, applied environmental geology, environmental science) which can be applied in the resources and engineering industries. The award is for £1500 towards tuition fees. The recipient may also have the opportunity to work alongside SRK’s geochemistry team and gain hands-on experience in their selected field, during their summer dissertation.
Closing date 28 July 2026. Please contact the programme leader
Dr Jessie Woodbridge for more details and eligibility criteria.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
You will normally be a graduate with a second class (2:2) degree or higher from an environmental, geographical, chemistry, marine, geology or biological subject discipline who is looking for environmental sector training. If you apply with equivalent qualifications and/or relevant environmental management experience, this would also be acceptable.
Equally, you could be a graduate from related disciplines who have worked within the environmental sector and is looking to gain a specialist qualification. If you apply without recent formal qualifications, you may still be accepted.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8311
8311
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Contact the Faculty International Team
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
register your interest in studying with us in 2026.
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Programme code
8311
8311
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
International students
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
register your interest in studying with us in 2026.
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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