The minimum qualification for admission is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree in an appropriate subject from an UK academic institution, or an equivalent overseas qualification. Candidates with extensive relevant work experience but a lower degree may also be considered for the course. All candidates should ideally show experience in environmental research or policy, and a strong interest in following a research career in this field.

Additionally, we welcome professionals working within government, NGOs or research institutes, who wish to develop their skills. The part time option for the course will be particularly attractive to these candidates.

Applicants must also meet the College’s English language requirements which for students outside the English speaking world are: IELTS 6.5 (plus writing and speaking 6.0); TOEFL Internet 100 (plus writing and speaking 24).

The course involves 8 weeks of full time teaching of core skills and 9 months of project-based research training.

Taught Elements

• Environmental and biological data sources and GIS
• Statistics and programming
• Understanding and modelling changes in the physical environment
• Understanding and modelling changes in biological systems
• Understanding and modelling changes in social-ecological systems
• Understanding and modelling policy responses to grand challenges
• Communicating your message, including scientific writing and engaging with stakeholders

Additionally, MRes students are able to attend many transferable skills courses that include:

• A one week induction course, including a series of seminars in Grand Challenges in Ecosystems and the Environment research
• Attendance at workshops and guest lectures within the Grand Challenges in Ecosystems and the Environment initiative
• A one-week summer school on ‘Grand Challenges in Ecosystems and the Environment’
• Training in complementary skills, personal development and business
• Weekly reading groups
• Preparing a CV

The projects are designed to give practical experience of desk-based or field research and provide the opportunity to learn a wide range of skills that build upon those taught earlier in the course.

This MRes comprises projects which can be based in the lab of any Grand Challenges in Ecosystems and the Environment member (with guidance and support from any participating department in College or in the University of an International Grand Challenges in Ecosystems and the Environment member), and are designed to provide students with experience of contributing to essential research which will provide real-world impact on an active project. Fully desk-based projects are also available.

All applications to the programme must be made online through the Imperial College application site. You should read the application instructions carefully before submitting your application.

For further information specific to this course please email the course director Dr Cristina Banks-Leite.

Imperial College works closely with employers and industry, including Industrial Advisory Panels to design Master’s courses which provide graduates with technical knowledge, expertise and transferable skills and to encourage students to take internships and placements. All Master’s courses are designed with employer needs in mind with some Master’s courses accredited by Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Bodies. Most Master’s courses offer an opportunity to carry out research projects in industry.