This course draws on interdisciplinary knowledge to provide a broad outlook on water problems within the context of current realities, future projections of climate change, and anthropogenic pressures on water resources and ecosystems.

Floods, droughts, poor water quality, disparities in regional access to water – these are all great environmental challenges for societies and ecosystems, and they are being exacerbated and complicated by a changing climate.

Gain the up-to-date knowledge and skills needed to understand and solve challenging water problems from an informed perspective applicable to a diverse range of careers. This course provides a unique opportunity for graduates to explore a wide range of disciplines such as hydrology, climate science, freshwater ecology, economics, social science, and hazard and risk analysis. Topics studied will include climate, flood management, droughts, water quality and availability, and water resources. Students will also develop the soft skills required for success in a professional setting.

By combining knowledge from several fields, this course encourages a broad outlook on water problems which is highly-valued in related academic and professional careers. Graduates will be well-suited to roles in international development, government, environmental consultancy and the non-profit sector. This course also provides a strong base for pursuing a research career in a water-related topic.

Careers and placements

This programme is designed to lead to various types of careers. Some students may choose to pursue a future PhD on a water-related topic.

Other graduates may wish to address global challenges by pursuing a specialist professional career in international development, or in environmental consulting, government, or the non-profit sector.

Students would be expected to choose a dissertation project that best aligns with their career goals.