Master of Environmental Management
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1, 2 & 3
- Duration
- 1 - 2 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Distance (online with some face-to-face), Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- Program code 8623
- CRICOS code 080063M
-
Commonwealth Supported Places are available for this program2026 Indicative CSP first year fee
- $10,000*
-
2026 Indicative CSP fee to complete degree
- $20,000*
-
2026 Indicative first year full fee
- $51,500*
-
2026 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $107,000*
Entry Requirements
Fees
Fees
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Flexible study options
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Transdisciplinary approach
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Strong industry links
Postgraduate Information Evening
Online | Wednesday, 1 April (6–7pm AEDT)
Join us online for the Postgraduate Information Evening to hear directly from UNSW academics, current students and advisors as they tackle the most common questions about postgraduate study—from flexible learning options and financial support to application tips and recognition of prior learning.
Application closures for 2026
International applications for all undergraduate programs, as well as postgraduate programs offered by the faculties of Arts, Design & Architecture, Engineering (excluding Master of Information Technology and associated programs) and Science are now closed to New Overseas Student Commencement (NOSC) for 2026 intakes.
Postgraduate programs offered by the Business School and the faculties of Law & Justice and Medicine & Health remain open. Master of Information Technology (and associated programs) also remain open.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
Overview
Tackle today’s most urgent environmental challenges with the Master of Environmental Management at UNSW. Environmental management is about understanding and reducing the impact of human activity on the environment, while addressing the social, cultural and economic dimensions of sustainability.
As Australia’s first transdisciplinary master’s in this field, UNSW’s Master of Environmental Management equips you with the knowledge, tools and practical experience to lead in environmental planning, policy, advocacy and management.
Graduate ready to drive transformative change, with the skills to communicate complex ideas, work across diverse knowledge systems and co-create just and regenerative environmental futures. Whether you’re advancing your current career or transitioning into sustainability, this degree empowers you to make a meaningful impact at local and global levels.
Key features
Lead with a sociocultural perspective
You don’t need a technical or science background to succeed in a Master of Environmental Management. Explore the social, cultural and structural dimensions of today’s environmental challenges, and gain the insight and tools to lead change across industries and communities.
Tailor your study to your lifestyle
Choose from a flexible mix of in-person seminars, evening classes, field-based learning, creative exploration and online access. Shape your study with electives that match your background, passions and career goals, while connecting with a diverse, supportive community of changemakers.
Fast-track your degree
This two-year full-time (or part-time equivalent) degree can be completed in less time if you’re eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Previous professional or academic experience may reduce your study load and help you gain your qualification sooner.
Graduate with two master’s degrees by combining this program with another eligible Arts, Design & Architecture master’s degree in the Master of Arts and Social Sciences (Combined).
Why study at UNSW?
Learn at a world-leading university
Gain a Master of Environmental Management from a global top 20 university (QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026).
Accelerate your career
Join the university recognised for producing Australia’s most employable graduates seven years in a row (AFR Top100 Future Leaders & Graduate Employers Awards, 2020–2026) and ranked #1 in Australia for #32 globally for employment outcomes (QS World University Rankings, 2026). Graduate with the skills and experience to lead in the sustainability sector.
Build your professional network
Benefit from UNSW’s strong industry connections, partnerships and internship opportunities. You’ll also gain lifelong access to a global alumni network, helping you build professional relationships that support your career – long after graduation.
Want to see more from UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture?
Entry requirements
There are three different streams of the Master of Environmental Management. The stream you apply for will depend on the depth of your prior academic and/or professional experience, and how closely it relates to environmental management.
If you apply for Stream A or Stream B, you may be eligible to have your study or previous work experience recognised via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). If your prior study or experience is recognised, credit points can be counted towards the Master of Environmental Management, and you would then be able to complete the coursework undertaking fewer subjects.
For all three streams, you will need to meet the following admission requirements to be considered for entry into the program:
For the 1 year stream (A)
- Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65%)
- Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65%), plus one year relevant professional experience
For the 1.7 year stream (B)
- Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65%), plus one year relevant professional experience
- Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65%)For the 2 year stream (C)
- Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%
For the 2 year stream (C)
- Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%.
Relevant disciplines include: Geography, environmental humanities, environmental social sciences, environmental art and design, environmental studies, environmental communication, sustainability studies, Indigenous studies, multispecies studies, environmental and urban planning, sustainable architecture and landscape design, environmental policy, urban studies, planetary health, conservation science, environmental engineering, environmental law, environmental management, environmental journalism, environmental economics, natural resource management.
Relevant professional experience includes: Environmental educator, planner, analyst, manager, campaign director, or similar in non-profit or for-profit sector, NGOs, or government; high-responsibility position as environmental activist or advocate; environmental consultant, law associate, reporter, assessor, or monitor; environmental performer, artist, designer, therapist, or similar.
Admission pathways
UNSW also offers a Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management. Completion of either of these programs with a credit average or higher, will allow you admission into the Master’s with full credit for courses already completed.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.
There are three different streams of the Master of Environmental Management. The stream you apply for will depend on the depth of your prior academic and/or professional experience, and how closely it relates to environmental management.
If you apply for Stream A or Stream B, you may be eligible to have your study or previous work experience recognised via Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). If your prior study is recognised, credit points can be counted towards the Master of Environmental Management, and you would then be able to complete the coursework undertaking fewer subjects.
For all three streams, you will need to meet the following admission requirements to be considered for entry into the program:
For the 1 year stream (A)
- Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65%)
- Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65%), plus one year relevant professional experience
For the 1.7 year stream (B)
- Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65%), plus one year relevant professional experience
- Honours degree or Graduate Diploma (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average (65%)For the 2 year stream (C)
- Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%
For the 2 year stream (C)
- Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%.
Relevant disciplines include: Geography, environmental humanities, environmental social sciences, environmental art and design, environmental studies, environmental communication, sustainability studies, Indigenous studies, multispecies studies, environmental and urban planning, sustainable architecture and landscape design, environmental policy, urban studies, planetary health, conservation science, environmental engineering, environmental law, environmental management, environmental journalism, environmental economics, natural resource management.
Relevant professional experience includes: Environmental educator, planner, analyst, manager, campaign director, or similar in non-profit or for-profit sector, NGOs, or government; high-responsibility position as environmental activist or advocate; environmental consultant, law associate, reporter, assessor, or monitor; environmental performer, artist, designer, therapist, or similar.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
What will I study?
UNSW is introducing a new academic calendar from 2028.
We are moving to a new flex-semester calendar. What does this mean for your studies?
Program structure
You’ll study the social, cultural and ecological drivers of today’s environmental challenges, combining insights from science, humanities and the social sciences. You’ll also build practical and experiential skills to lead ethical, restorative sustainability initiatives at local and global levels.
Foundational courses are designed and taught by passionate educators from across disciplines, giving you both depth and flexibility in your study. You can tailor your learning through core transdisciplinary seminars, field courses, independent research, internships and a wide range of electives.
Full program structure
Students must complete 96 units of credit (UOC) when taken as a standalone program.
Environmental Management A – 1 year stream (48 UOC)
- Core Courses (18 UOC)
- Disciplinary Knowledge Courses (at least 24 UOC)
- Prescribed Elective Course (up to 6 UOC)
Environmental Management B – 1.7 year stream (72 UOC)
- Core Courses (18 UOC)
- Disciplinary Knowledge Courses (at least 42 UOC)
- Prescribed Elective Course (up to 12 UOC)
Environmental Management C – 2 year stream (96 UOC)
- Core Courses (18 UOC)
- Disciplinary Knowledge Courses (at least 54 UOC)
- Prescribed Elective Courses (up to 24 UOC)
In addition to our core transdisciplinary seminar courses on environment & society leadership and change-making (IEST5001, IEST5006, IEST5003), you will choose from a diverse range of foundational disciplinary courses designed and taught by our program’s passionate educators, including:
- Environmental Communication: Culture & Transformation
- Political Ecology: Sustainable Development & Justice
- Large-Scale Conservation in Practice (field course in the Blue Mountains)
- Living Cities: Promises and Risks of Urban Environments (field course in Sydney)
- Indigenous Knowledges and Caring for Country (field course with elders at different sites on Country)
- Restorative Ecologies: Permaculture Principles & Practice (field course, with micro-credentialing in permaculture design)
- Climate Crisis & Action
- Environmental Policy & Participation
- Corporations, Capitalism & Transforming Environments
- Environmental Technologies: Challenges and Opportunities
- Demystifying Environmental Law: From Regulation to Rights of Nature
- Engaging Science for Environmental Leadership
- Remaking Worlds: Creative & Critical Paradigm Shifts in Environment & Society
Alongside seminars and field courses, you can pursue guided independent research, supervised projects, or gain work experience through internships. You also will be able to choose from dozens of specialty electives from a variety of faculties that fit your specific interests.
Future careers
As the world responds to the growing challenges of climate change, environmental management is a critical field. Graduates of UNSW’s Master of Environmental Management step into creative, challenging and impactful roles that drive environmental solutions and a more sustainable future for our planet.
What jobs are there in environmental management?
Career pathways in environmental management span diverse industries, including sustainability innovation and leadership, environmental communication and media, ecological conservation and regeneration, and community development and empowerment in industry, government and not-for-profits.
Demand for professionals with expertise in environmental management is growing, with strong career opportunities and high earning potential. Average annual salaries for experts in environmental management in Australia average $170,000 for environmental managers, $110,000 for policy advisers and sustainability officers (Seek, 2026).
Potential careers
- Climate change analyst
- Community engagement officer
- Corporate sustainability advisor
- Ecological restoration specialist
- Education and outreach coordinator
- Energy and sustainability consultant
- Environmental communications specialist
- Environmental compliance officer
- Environmental consultant
- Environmental policy adviser
- Environmental program manager
- Environmental researcher
- Indigenous land management officer
- Natural resource manager
- Policy and planning officer
- Regeneration project coordinator
- Renewable energy analyst
- Sustainability and resilience officer
- Sustainability data analyst
- Urban planning
Master of Environmental Management, Alumni (2025)
"The program nurtures a positive, supportive environment where you can carve out your path in environmental leadership, management, and scholarship, all within a rigorous academic framework. It's an inspiring program, brimming with passionate changemakers eager to collaborate and drive positive change in the world."
Chris Mercer
Chief Experience Officer
National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA)
How to apply
Applications must be submitted through our Apply Online portal. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term. Some high-demand programs and faculties with limited places may have an earlier application deadline or commencement date. Find out more.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For details, visit the international admissions information page.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
There are a limited number of Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) available for this degree/program. Your eligibility to receive a CSP will be automatically assessed when you apply, please ensure you preference the CSP code in UAC to be considered. Start your postgraduate application today with our guide on how to apply.
Please note that eligibility for Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) is competitive, with places awarded based on academic merit. To find out more about Commonwealth Supported Places visit Postgraduate Commonwealth Support.
Commonwealth Study Assistance such as Austudy, and Youth Allowance is available for some master’s degrees. For the most up-to-date information and list of degrees visit UNSW Current Student Financial Support.
*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.
Indicative fees are a guide only and have been calculated based on the typical enrolment patterns of students undertaking the degree/program. The indicative fees listed here is an estimate for tuition only and excludes non-tuition fees and charges. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year of enrolment, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (48 units of credit (UOC) per year).
You should not rely on indicative fees as fee increases are assessed when required and may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Actual fees are calculated on enrolment. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
*Fees are subject to annual review (or when required) by the University and may vary accordingly.
The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average using historical student enrolment patterns for each program, which may change every year. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year you enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative first year fees are for tuition only. Indicative fees to complete the degree/program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year and have been calculated based on percentage increase for every year of the degree/program, noting that actual fee increase may exceed the indicative figures listed here. Other fees and charges are not included. To find out more about other costs for international students, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
Progress starts here – at a world-leading university
Top 20 Worldwide
UNSW is ranked #20 university in the world
QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026
Most Employable Graduates
Winner of the AFR Most Employable University Award seven years in a row
AFR Top100 Future Leaders & Graduate Employers Awards, 2020–2026
Australia's #1 for Innovation
Highest number of startups and spinouts from university-developed tech
SCOPR report, 2024
The student community collectively inspire and encourage my individual career goals.
