MSci Applied Environmental Science at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

MSci Applied Environmental Science is a five-year integrated master's including a supported year working with industry professionals. It develops core scientific and analytical skills with lab and field residentials across the Highlands and Islands, including an optional international field trip. A four-year alternative without the placement is BSc (Hons) Environmental Science.

Duration: 5 years full-time (including 9-12 month work placement) | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time (integrated) | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 core modules include Fundamental chemistry, Introduction to biology and Laboratory skills and practice. Later years cover Aquatic environments, GIS for Scientists, Climate science, Peatland ecology, Applied marine ecology, Environmental science in practice and a dissertation. The MSci year is a mandatory 9-12 month UK work placement.

Career pathways

Environmental agencies and natural heritage bodies, local authority biodiversity and flood work, forestry, environmental consultancy, industry environmental management and conservation charities; progression to MSc Sustainable Energy Solutions, MRes Environmental Science and other postgraduate courses.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

3 Scottish Highers at grade BBC or above or 2 A levels at grade B or above, including two science subjects, plus National 5, Standard Grade Credit, Intermediate 2 or equivalent at grade C or above in a science subject. Alternatively a Foundation Apprenticeship Scientific Technologies (Laboratory Skills) plus an additional Higher at B and National 5 at B. Advanced entry to year 2 may be available with HNC Applied Sciences, Bioscience, Horticulture, Wildlife and Conservation Management or CertHE Introduction to Marine Biology, Environmental Science and Sustainability; year 3 with HND Horticulture or HND Wildlife and Conservation Management. Applicants with other qualifications are considered individually. International applicants: IELTS Academic overall 6.0 with no element below 5.5 (or equivalent approved test).

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,820 a year (2026/27). Full-time, Scotland-domiciled students Source

International applicants: GBP 17,970 a year (2026/27). Full-time per year (years 1 to 3), for students living in the UK assessed as international; not available to those requiring Student Route visa sponsorship Source

Intake: September

Duration: 5 years full-time (including 9-12 month work placement)

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