MSc Sustainability Planning and Environmental Policy

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Cardiff University offers a range of scholarships to support international students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to attract high-achieving students from around the world, easing the financial burden and recognizing academic excellence. 

Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship: Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor’s International Scholarship is a merit-based award that provides partial funding for exceptional international undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship rewards high academic achievement and study, making it ideal for students with strong academic backgrounds.

Global Wales Postgraduate Scholarship: This scholarship offers substantial funding to international postgraduate students from certain countries, including the USA, India, Vietnam, and EU nations. The scholarship covers part of the tuition fees and is awarded based on academic merit and potential for success.

Chevening Scholarship: Offered in collaboration with the UK government, the prestigious Chevening Scholarship is available to international students who demonstrate leadership potential and academic excellence. The award covers tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and other allowances, supporting future leaders and influencers in various fields.

Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships: For students from Commonwealth countries, the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships provide funding for postgraduate students who would otherwise be unable to study in the UK. The scholarship includes full tuition, living expenses, and airfare, ensuring accessibility for students from developing nations.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: Cardiff University partners with the British Council to offer the GREAT Scholarships for students from specific countries, including China, India, Malaysia, and Thailand. These scholarships provide financial assistance for tuition fees and are intended to encourage bright students to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.

Subject-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic departments at Cardiff University offer additional scholarships tailored to specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, and life sciences. These scholarships provide partial funding and are aimed at attracting talented students to specific programs.

Financial Aid and External Scholarships: In addition to Cardiff University scholarships, students can explore external funding options such as loans, grants, and scholarships provided by their home countries or private organizations. The university’s financial aid office offers guidance to help students find external financial support.

Graduates of the MSc in Sustainability Planning and Environmental Policy from Cardiff University are well-positioned to pursue diverse and impactful careers in the field of environmental sustainability, policy development, and urban planning. With their specialized knowledge and skills, they can contribute to shaping a more sustainable future across various sectors.

Environmental Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as policy analysts, assessing the effectiveness of environmental policies, advising governments and organizations on policy development, and recommending solutions to environmental issues. These roles are commonly found in government agencies, think tanks, environmental NGOs, and research organizations.

Sustainability Consultant: Sustainability consultants help businesses, governments, and organizations implement sustainable practices across various operations. Graduates can advise on environmental impact assessments, sustainable energy solutions, waste management, and green technologies, helping clients meet sustainability goals and regulatory standards.

Urban Planner: Urban planners with a focus on sustainability work to create environmentally responsible, livable cities. They design urban spaces that integrate sustainable infrastructure, green spaces, and efficient transportation systems. Graduates can work for municipal governments, private planning firms, or international urban development organizations.

Environmental Compliance Manager: These professionals ensure that organizations comply with environmental regulations and laws. They monitor and report on environmental performance, conduct audits, and help organizations implement strategies to reduce their environmental impact. Graduates can work in a wide range of sectors, including construction, energy, manufacturing, and local government.

Climate Change Specialist: Climate change specialists work on developing and implementing strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change. They may be involved in policy advocacy, climate risk assessments, and sustainable development planning, often working for environmental agencies, international organizations, and governmental bodies.

Sustainable Development Coordinator: In this role, graduates develop and oversee projects that promote sustainable development practices, particularly in the context of social, environmental, and economic sustainability. These roles can be found in international development organizations, local governments, NGOs, and the corporate sector.

Environmental Impact Assessor: Environmental impact assessors evaluate the potential environmental effects of development projects, including land use changes, construction, and industrial operations. They ensure that projects adhere to environmental regulations and recommend mitigation measures to minimize negative impacts. Graduates can work with regulatory bodies, consultancy firms, or private companies.

Conservation Manager: Conservation managers work to protect natural habitats and biodiversity. They may work for environmental organizations, government agencies, or non-profits, developing and implementing conservation strategies, managing protected areas, and overseeing environmental education programs.

Sustainable Transport Planner: These planners focus on developing and implementing transportation strategies that minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable mobility. They may work on projects related to public transit, cycling infrastructure, or electric vehicle integration, often working with local councils or transportation authorities.

Renewable Energy Project Manager: Renewable energy project managers oversee the planning, development, and implementation of renewable energy projects, such as solar, wind, and biomass energy systems. Graduates can work for energy companies, NGOs, or government bodies focused on the transition to sustainable energy sources.

Environmental Educator or Communicator: Graduates can work as environmental educators or communicators, raising awareness about sustainability issues and promoting best practices for conservation and climate action. These roles are often found in environmental organizations, public outreach programs, and educational institutions.

International Development Specialist: Graduates can work in the field of international development, focusing on sustainable development in developing countries. These professionals work with international agencies, NGOs, and governments to improve living conditions, reduce poverty, and promote environmental sustainability in global communities.

Green Building Consultant: Green building consultants specialize in sustainable architecture and construction. They advise on the use of environmentally friendly materials, energy-efficient design, and sustainable building practices. This role is ideal for graduates interested in both urban planning and environmental sustainability.

Natural Resource Manager: Natural resource managers work to ensure the sustainable use and protection of natural resources like water, forests, and minerals. They can work in industries like agriculture, forestry, water management, and conservation, helping organizations balance resource use with environmental protection.

Sustainability Manager/Director: A sustainability manager or director develops and implements an organization’s sustainability strategy, focusing on reducing environmental impact, improving energy efficiency, and achieving sustainability goals. These positions are found in large corporations, local governments, and non-profit organizations.