The Department of Environmental Science (DES) is a specialist postgraduate unit, dedicated to the provision of multi-disciplinary environmental degree programs, with an ambition to a leading center for interdisciplinary research in the areas of strategic environmental assessment, environmental policy and management, and sustainable development.
We were the first institution to bring together natural scientists, social scientists, geoscientists’ economists, engineers and so on, work together to understand the way in which environmental and human systems interact with each other.
A multidisciplinary program that enables students, faculty, and staff to research issues outside conventional areas and external thought processes and projects beyond the boundaries of a trained discipline.
DES has currently working on extensive collaborative teaching and research links within the University and with external academic, governmental and private sector organization working nationally and internationally.
Through the unique gateway offered by DES, Masters and PhD students can take advantage of a wide range of classes offered in a postgraduate degree program.
M.Sc in Environmental Science presents students with the opportunity to gain theoretical and practical knowledge of the chemical, physical, biological and mathematical methods required to assess, monitor, manage and model the environment.
The interdisciplinary and diverse expertise of both staff and students underpins the quality of the research that focuses on both the fundamental and applied aspects of their specialist environmental topics.
Our business links are substantial and growing. We are growing our connectivity with business as well as with government at all levels, and civil society.
The program is open in daytime to all disciplinary and professional backgrounds.

The mission of the program is to produce scientists with the knowledge needed to support the assessment, maintenance and recovery of environmental resources. This includes an appreciation of the economic, social, political and aesthetic context that shapes our interaction with and knowledge of the environment. Measuring and understanding the balance between environmental protection, sustainable resource management, and economic growth is a major integrating theme within the program.
Strategies used to support the program's mission include the development of problem solving skills, study of the complex interactions between biotic and abiotic characteristics of the environment, and the application of innovative scientific research techniques. The breadth of a multidisciplinary program allows students to gain an understanding of the societal constraints placed on the implementation of scientifically derived strategies, the translation of such strategies to public policy, and the role of the scientist in that process.

Admission to Environmental Science Degree Program (ESDP) in daytime requires the prospective student, to apply to the Director Admission in November 2005.
Applicants seeking admission into the Master of Science degree program in Environmental Sciences must meet the admission requirements of the University and the specific program requirements. The Environmental Sciences master's degree program accepts students with a variety of disciplines including Natural Sciences, Earth Sciences and Engineers in the relevant discipline.
Applicants are also expected to have a working knowledge of computer systems and software.
Applicants should furnish two letters of reference from former professors or associates acquainted with their academic qualifications. Lastly, a letter of intent from the applicant is needed detailing the nature of their interests and career goals.