Environmental Science and Sustainability, Master Programme
120 creditsMoving towards a sustainable world is one of the most important present-day challenges of mankind. The Master programme in Environmental Science and Sustainability provides you with both theoretical and practical skills regarding how we can mitigate the human effects on our environment.
Sustainable development is the general steering principle to achieve sustainability and the main tool to reach the United Nations’ goals to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. The master program in Environmental Science and Sustainability is focused on the environmental domain of sustainable development but also considers the interrelated social and economic domains. It aims to develop abilities to the independent use of scientific based information for the understanding of the environment and its degradation related to human activities and hazards, as well as for assessment of available and future mitigation options. The programme is meant to provide practical (hands-on) experience and you will be encouraged to participate of on-going research projects at the Department of Biology and Environmental Science.
During the first year, you will be introduced to environmental risk analyses principles, risk management of contaminated sites, and environmental risk communication. Practical activities will include field work (including sampling and monitoring strategies for soils, sediments, water, and/or air) and data processing and analyses. You will form research groups and work with real cases, in order to understand background environmental conditions, degradation and mitigation. If you fulfill all requirements of the first-year programme you may apply for a one year Master degree in Environmental Risk Analyses (60 credits).
The second year will include work in research groups and the consolidation of scientific research methods. A major part of the second year will be dedicated to the individual research project (master thesis). The project will be supervised by a researcher in the Department of Biology and Environmental Science and is carried out in within fields related to environmental science and sustainability.
The selection of students who have applied is based on academic excellence and individual assessment. All applicants should apply via universityadmissions.se. The application should include a letter of interest (maximum one page), curriculum vitae, diplomas and references.
Career
The knowledge acquired during the two years of the masters can be directly applied to environmental management and research projects and surveys, both within authorities and private enterprises, and is also designed to be an initial step for advanced studies at Ph.D. level.
Degree
Master of Science 120 credits
Main field of study: Environmental Science
Programme Coordinator
International possibilities
At Linnaeus University, you have plenty of opportunity to broaden your international perspective. During the course of your programme, you can choose to study abroad through exchange studies to gain international experience. If you do, you will conduct part of your studies at one of our many partner universities around the world.
Also at home you can gain international experience. Many courses contain intercultural elements. For instance, in the form of course literature or guest lecturers from other countries. In your leisure time, you can get involved in associations together with students from a wide range of other programmes and countries, or meet international students through our buddy programme.
Learn more about international possibilities at Linnaeus University
Cheng wants to be a researcher
Cheng moved to Sweden from China because of her Swedish partner. With a great interest in studying environmental science, she chose to study at Linnaeus University. She sees the master's program in Environmental Science and Sustainability as a path towards the goal of doing research in the field.
Read the interview
As Linnaeus University was close to her living place and had the major of interest to Cheng, she chose to study here.
– The master's program's design attracted my curiosity. I'd like to take a systematic approach to learning Swedish environmental protection knowledge, says Cheng.
Cheng finds the content of the program interesting and she also likes the education atmosphere at Linnaeus University.
– The teachers offer lots of to develop students' ability to learn independently. There is always open discussion and communication with the teachers and supervisors, Cheng continues.
Experiments and report writing are two of Chengs greatest joys, something she has benefited from in her studies at the program. She has now taken on a new challenge in the form of a new project.
– I'm working on a new study topic: microplastic in the Baltic Sea. Professor Marcelo Ketzer, my supervisor, spearheaded the endeavor. It's a topic that's both interesting and important. And no one in our department has previously worked on it. As a result, Mr. Marcelo and I have collaborated from the beginning to comprehend the study issue and determine how to do the necessary research. It's difficult for me, but I really appreciate the challenge aspect of it. Growth comes from overcoming obstacles, Cheng explains.
Cheng feels that student life requires hard work, self-discipline and concentration. Something she can take with her in her future career.
– I think doing research fits me well. Pursuing a PhD is my plan after graduation and my dream job would be a researcher and scientist. I would like to stay at Linnaeus University if there is a suitable opportunity, Cheng concludes.
An internship provided Alexander with contacts in the industry
When Alexander moved to Kalmar, he got a student apartment because of the housing guarantee. In the future, he would like to use his education to make a difference.
Read the interview
- There were a number of reasons for my choosing to study at Linnaeus University. One reason was the location. Another was the recommendations I got from friends and acquaintances. My partner studied here, and she liked it so much that she stayed on in Kalmar after graduating. There are many doctoral students from other countries at the university, which contributes to an international way of thinking and there is often room for interesting discussions.
Alexander appreciates the relationship between teachers and students. It has helped him with his studies, and he believes that it is favourable that the university is located in two medium-sized cities.
- The relationship with the teachers is good. They are often available if you need to discuss something or if you have questions regarding a task. The programme is practically-oriented and the fact that the university is located in two medium-sized cities is an advantage because many members of staff at the university have good contacts with the trade and industry, the municipality, and the county council.
An Internship provided valuable experience
Early into his studies, Alexander got an internship at a company in Kalmar. A valuable experience as he got to know people working in the industry.
- I gained experience and made knew contacts in the industry. I got a chance to participate in EU projects and contribute with important, practical elements. It keeps you motivated and gives you valuable experience.
Housing guarantee for new students in Kalmar
For those who do not already live in Kalmar municipality, the municipal housing agency, Kalmarhem, has a housing guarantee. This means that you are entitled to student housing within two months.
- The housing guarantee is really good. Thanks to the housing guarantee we got an apartment in the city, close to the university. Kalmar is a very beautiful city with great communications and plenty of good restaurants and shops. If you are interested in student life, you can become engaged in one of the numerous student associations. The associations arrange different events and the graduation ball at Kalmar Castle is something special.
Frequently asked questions about the program
How long does it typically take to complete the master's program in Environmental Science and Sustainability?
The typical length for master's programs in Sweden, including this one at Linnaeus University, is two years. This period allows students to complete courses and projects, often including a thesis.
What are the core subjects and courses included in the program?
The core subjects include environmental science, sustainability studies, ecological management, and environmental policy. The program also cover topics like renewable energy, waste management, and environmental impact assessment.
What are the common career prospects for graduates of the Environmental Science and Sustainability Master Programme?
The program prepares students for diverse careers such as environmental analysts, sustainability coordinators, and roles in corporate social responsibility departments, focusing on implementing sustainable practices in various sectors.
Kalmar – the student city by the sea
In Kalmar centre, right next to the sea, you will find the university’s facilities that were inaugurated in August 2021. In Kalmar, everything is nearby, and you can take your bicycle to the university regardless of where you live in the city.
New students have housing guarantee. This means that you are entitled to student accommodation within two months. This is one of the reasons for Kalmar being appointed Student City of the Year 2023 by the Swedish National Union of Students. Kalmar has also received the award because the city offers students an excellent living environment. What is more, the city works actively to create opportunities for students to stay in Kalmar to work when they have completed their studies.
Kalmar municipality has about 70 000 inhabitants. Kalmar has a strong trade and industry with many companies that are on the forefront in green energy, e-commerce, and eHealth, which means there is good opportunity to establish contacts for your future work life.
Kalmar has a cultural history centre and has been named Sweden’s Summer City several times. No wonder, with all the hours of sun, beaches and concerts. What is more, the island of Öland is just one bridge away.