From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.
Why Master of Science?
Are you passionate about our planet? In today's rapidly changing world, the preservation of our environment, wildlife and the conservation of natural resources have become increasingly critical concerns. Create the balance between human needs and environment protection.
Our Master of Science specialising in Environment and Conservation is designed to change the way we think about sustainability. Learn how to engage innovatively and react responsibly to future environmental challenges.
Build on your existing knowledge and become an expert in thinking critically and identifying practical solutions. Work to understand how to manage resources and protect and manage our biodiverse world. Be prepared to implement and monitor environmental strategies to ensure the long-term health and viability of our collective future.
Overview
Our Master of Science specialising in Environment and Conservation will give you the opportunity to pursue an advanced level of study in your chosen field. Build a deeper knowledge in environmental science, conservation biology and ecology. Define and interpret future-focused problems in a guided research project, using proven scientific research.
Develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills to practically preserve our natural resources and limit human impact. Learn how to be flexible and adaptive in implementing management practices in your future career.
Graduate with an advanced body of knowledge in environmental stability and natural resource management. Become a reflective practitioner and change the way industry respond to environmental challenges.
Key features
Focus on the biological and physical aspects of natural resources. - Use ecotoxicity principles to implement environmental monitoring.
- Recognise the pivotal role of human factors in impacting Earth’s resources.
- Gain important insight from indigenous knowledge about fire system management.
- Examine approaches to environmental planning and governance in Australia and internationally.
- Build your skills in research methodology to undertake a research project in second year.
What you'll learn
Our degree will prepare you for a productive career focusing on understanding the natural world, including ecosystems, biodiversity and the relationship between organisms and their environment.
In first year, you’ll study the theory of managing and sustaining our natural environment. Explore ways to protect and preserve, limit human impact and promote sustainable practices for current and future generations.
In your second year, you’ll work under the supervision of established science academics to complete a scientific research project. Develop, interpret and present a thesis in a discipline-aligned topic of your choice. Gain experience in research methodology and strengthen your skills for future professional work.
Be exposed to contemporary technologies, methodologies and practices that are shaping our current society. Reflect critically on these techniques to devise solutions to ongoing complex sustainability issues.
Learn in a diverse teaching environment, including face-to-face and online delivery modes. Apply theoretical concepts and conduct experiments in practical classroom settings. Engage with other students in online learning environments, ensuring flexibility in your studies.
Specialisations
The Master of Science is also available with specialisations in the following:
- Biotechnology
- Global Food and Nutrition Science
- Medical Radiation Physics
- Sustainable Georesources.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 48 to 72 units for one Specialisation from Specialisation, and
- 0 to 48 units for Work integrated learning, and
- 0 to 24 units for Electives
Complete 54 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Natural Resource Management
|
Course code
BIOL5011
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Pollution and Monitoring
|
Course code
BIOL5013
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Fire and Culture
|
Course code
EART5005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Microbial Ecology
|
Course code
BIOL5014
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Ecosystem Monitoring
|
Course code
BIOL5015
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Global Change and Human Health
|
Course code
BIOL5016
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Energy and Society
|
Course code
BIOL5017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Social License to Operate
|
Course code
BIOL6005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Planning and Governance
|
Course code
BIOL5018
|
Units
12
|
Complete 0 to 48 units for one of the following:
- 0 to 48 units from Biotechnology (Biomedical) - work integrated learning, or
- 6 units for all Environment and Conservation - work integrated learning, or
- 24 units for all Medical Radiation Physics - work integrated learning, or
- 24 units for all Sustainable Georesources - work integrated learning
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Applied Biotechnology Research and Design
|
Course code
FOOD6903
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology (Biomedical) Research Project A
|
Course code
SCIE6801
|
Units
24
|
|
|
Course name
Biotechnology (Biomedical) Research Project B
|
Course code
SCIE6802
|
Units
24
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Research Theory and Practice in Science
|
Course code
BIOL6800
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Research Project A
|
Course code
BIOL6900
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Research Project B
|
Course code
BIOL6901
|
Units
12
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Georesources Industry Project A
|
Course code
EART6900
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Georesources Industry Project B
|
Course code
EART6901
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Georesources Industry Project C
|
Course code
EART6902
|
Units
12
|
Complete 0 to 24 units for one of the following:
- 0 to 24 units from Free Electives, or
- 0 to 6 units from Biotechnology (Biomedical) electives, or
- 6 units from Medical Radiation Physics electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Animal Biotechnology
|
Course code
BIOL6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Bioinformatics: Sequencing Technologies
|
Course code
BIOL6004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Good Manufacturing Practice, Validation and Regulation
|
Course code
SCIE6000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Risk Assessment and Management
|
Course code
PROJ5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Project Management Fundamentals
|
Course code
PROJ5000
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Radiation Safety in the Workplace
|
Course code
EART5010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Differential Equations
|
Course code
MATH5010
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Statistical Methodology
|
Course code
STAT5000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Optics and Photonics
|
Course code
PHYS5005
|
Units
6
|
Complete 18 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Industry Project A
|
Course code
BIOL6008
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Industry Project B
|
Course code
BIOL6009
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Environmental Industry Project C
|
Course code
BIOL6010
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Discover the intricate web of life on Earth and the vital importance of preserving and sustaining it for present and future generations. This degree will ensure you are equipped to work independently and in leadership roles in environment and conservation sectors.
You could apply your knowledge to work in non-government organisations (NGOs) protecting unique wildlife, beaches and bushland. You might even work in federal or state government agencies addressing pressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable practices.
You could also be employed by local authority departments and agencies, mining, renewable energy and finance sectors and engineering and environmental consulting companies.
Careers you might consider include:
- Natural resource manager
- Environmental health manager
- Environmental consultant
- Conservation and wildlife officer
- Climate consultant.
Industry trends
According to the Australian Government’s National Skills Commission, by November 2026 employment in STEM-related occupations is projected to grow by 14.2% – approximately 5% higher than any other occupation. With several recent reforms in environmental protection being introduced, there will be infinite opportunities for you to explore a range of exciting career possibilities (Australian Government, 2021).
How to apply
FAQs
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
