On this taught programme, you’ll gain an understanding of the environmental implications of development action and of the wider social, political and economic issues surrounding decisions about the environment.
Across a series of compulsory and optional modules, you’ll develop advanced environmental planning and management skills – along with the relationships and inherent challenges to overcome to plan for a healthy society.
You will learn to fully understand and practice various tools and techniques associated with environmental assessment and management, including data collection, infrastructure planning, and environmental management systems, with a view to providing you with opportunities of working within the field, as well as research, critical analysis and independent thinking.
You’ll get to hear from active practitioners through client-led modules featuring guest lecturers and you will develop real-world skills that you will use throughout your career.
This MSc is suitable for students from a wide range of disciplinary backgrounds i.e. your first degree can be from social, technical or natural sciences and in a subject not related to environmental sciences. This programme offers you the opportunity to seek career options in environmental assessment and management.
We also welcome non-traditional qualifications and relevant work experience which are considered on their individual merits.
This course is accredited by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA).
IEMA is the professional body for everyone working in environment and sustainability. This course entitles students to free student membership for the duration of the course and on successful completion you qualify for GradIEMA.
Graduate membership is a launchpad for future leaders within environment and sustainability and offers a range of benefits to support you throughout your career. You can then “Fast track” to Practitioner Membership (PIEMA) following successful completion of the work-based assessment of competence.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
In your first semester, compulsory modules with introduce you to the theory and practice of environmental assessment, teach you about the health origins and importance of environmental protection policy, and help you develop a critical understanding of the growing importance of environmental and sustainable development thinking in decision-making processes.
You’ll work independently and in groups, attend interactive lectures, deliver presentations and take part in guest lectures from people currently working in the field.
Optional modules will offer you the chance to develop your education into areas which interest you the most, including the theory and practice of marine planning, the impact of people on the environment, or the issues facing society regarding access to basic needs such as housing, employment or transport.
Please see below for semester one modules. Click on the next tab for semester two modules.
In addition to compulsory modules, you must also choose one optional module in each semester.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| POLITICS OF THE ENVIRONMENT (ENVS525) | 15 |
| ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF POLICIES, PLANS, PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS (ENVS529) | 15 |
| HUMAN HEALTH IN IMPACT ASSESSMENT (ENVS611) | 15 |
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MARINE PLANNING THEORY AND PRACTICE (ENVS541) | 15 |
| RESEARCH IN ANTHROPOCENE ENVIRONMENTS (ENVS485) | 15 |
| SPATIAL PLANNING CHALLENGES (ENVS411) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
In your second semester, you’ll further develop your environmental assessment skills with compulsory modules covering the historical and modern use of Green infrastructure planning, along with how businesses can influence the wider environmental agenda.
You’ll also work on a group project where you’ll apply your knowledge to create a tender document, which you will then present to a client and at a departmental conference.
Optional modules will help you develop your understanding of ecology and conservation, as well your independent thinking and critical insight skills.
In addition to compulsory modules, you must also choose one optional module in each semester.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| BUSINESS AND THE ENVIRONMENT (ENVS470) | 15 |
| ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT PROJECT (ENVS560) | 15 |
| GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING (ENVS545) | 15 |
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT (ENVS423) | 15 |
| MAKING PLANS (ENVS427) | 15 |
| MONITORING URBAN AIR POLLUTION (ENVS666) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Starting with a workshop to develop your primary research skills, such as research design, literature searching, research methods and more, your final semester will be devoted to developing, researching and executing an independent piece of research on the topic relating to you speciality.
Initially, you will present your research outline to your, followed by a more detailed outline and, ultimately, a dissertation on your choice of research question. There will be plenty of chances to check in with an academic member of staff, either online or in-person, to discuss your research project over the course of the semster.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| DISSERTATION MCD/MA/MSC PLANNING (ENVS491) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
To make sure you get a well-rounded education, we use a combination of different teaching styles, like lectures, seminars, tutorials, and practical sessions like group projects and field visits. All the course materials are waiting for you on the teaching homepage, so you can easily access what you need.
We want you to take an active role in your learning journey, so we encourage you to plan and organize your studies, whether that’s on your own or with a group. Don’t be shy about participating in class discussions, seminars, and library and IT studies. And make sure to get some real-world experience through practice contacts and site visits related to your coursework submissions.
We use a mix of assessment methods, like coursework like essays, reports, and seminar presentations, as well as exams.
These assessments give you a chance to dive deep into specific parts of the course and show off your writing skills for different audiences. You’ll also have the chance to practice your speaking skills with seminar presentations and work as part of a team on group projects.
You’ll get to demonstrate your knowledge, understanding, and critical thinking skills during exams and in a final research project in the summer.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
At the Department of Geography and Planning, you will learn from world-leading researchers who bring the latest theoretical and practical knowledge.
By the end of your master’s, you will have developed the knowledge and skills to become an agent for change on the global stage.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
There’s high demand for graduates with a degree in environmental assessment and management, and your prospects should only get better with this master’s. Plus, the program is accredited by the IEMA, which will help enhance your profile and boost your employability. It’s a great time to be entering this field.
After completing the program, you’ll be well equipped to pursue a variety of career paths in the public and private sector, including environmental consulting. You may even opt to work for environmental charities or continue your education with an advanced degree or research position.
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £12,500
Part-time place, per year - £6,250
Full-time place, per year - £24,100
Part-time place, per year - £12,050
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies..
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree can be in any subject discipline. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 120 overall, with no component below 105 |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 65 |
| PSI Skills for English | B2 Pass with Merit in all bands |
| INDIA Standard XII | National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English. |
| WAEC | C6 or above |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 6.0 | 6 weeks | On campus |
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 10 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 6.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.0, and no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
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Last updated 18 February 2025 / / Programme terms and conditions