Master of Science in Environmental Sustainability Science

• UNITAR-Endorsed Programme: This programme is endorsed by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). Upon completion, all students will receive a personalised UNITAR-endorsed certificate, recognising their specialised training in environmental sustainability science.

• Specialised Pathways aligned with emerging needs: Students may tailor their learning through one of three specialisations: Climate & Earth Science, Satellie Remote Sensing, or Environmental Health. These pathways address some of the world's most pressing environmental challenges and prepare graduates for environmental science and sustainability-related roles. 

• Integrated Learning and Industry Collaboration: Students gain hands-on experience through case studies, networking opportunities, and collaborative projects developed with industry experts and government agencies. This is enhanced by opportunities for cross-cohort engagement with ASE’s PhD and Master by Research students, providing a dynamic learning ecosystem.

The following are minimum admission requirements. Meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission, as selection is competitive.

• Bachelor’s degree holders and working professionals are welcome to apply.
• A good bachelor’s degree in a related science, engineering, or social science programme. Relevant working experience (in a related industry or environmental science related applications) and leadership potential will also be taken into consideration.
• A TOEFL (internet-based) score of 5.0 or more, or IELTS score of 6.0 or more, is required for international applicants for whom English is not their first language and/or graduates of universities in which English is not the medium of instruction. Test dates must be within 2 years or less from the date of your application. Special arrangements can be made for selected applicants to sit for NTU’s English Proficiency Test (EPT) in place of TOEFL/IELTS.

Duration: (Full-time) 1-2 years | (Part-time) 2-4 years 
Structure: Semester-based
Mode: Full-time and part-time
Format: In-person
Intakes: August and January
Class Schedule: Classes are generally held on weekdays during daytime hours at NTU's main campus.

Graduation Requirements

To graduate, students must complete 30 Academic Units (AU), which is equivalent to approximately 10 graduate-level courses.

Upon graduation, all students will receive individualised certificates endorsed by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).

Specialised Pathways

Students may choose from three specialisations: Climate & Earth Science, Satellite Remote Sensing, and Environmental Health, or pursue an interdisciplinary pathway, allowing them to tailor their learning across multiple thematic areas to suit their academic interests and career goals.

1. Climate & Earth Science: With climate change high on both national and global agendas, this specialisation equips students with the scientific expertise and leadership skills needed to address complex environmental challenges. Students gain a deep understanding of Earth systems and climate dynamics, preparing them to contribute to science-based policymaking, drive innovation in mitigation and adaptation strategies, and lead interdisciplinary research efforts. This training aligns with global frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals, empowering graduates to take on impactful roles across government, industry, and academia.
   
   
2. Satellite Remote Sensing: This specialisation trains students in the cutting-edge technology of satellite observation to monitor Earth’s systems. As the global remote sensing market rapidly grows (valued at USD 17B in 2022), students learn to apply spatial data to climate change tracking, agriculture, disaster response, and urban planning. With support from Singapore’s OSTIn, this track responds to national and regional needs for enhanced technical literacy and positions graduates to be key players in environmental management across ASEAN and beyond.
   
   
3. Environmental Health: With nearly one-quarter of the global disease burden linked to environmental factors (WHO), this specialisation prepares students to assess and manage environmental risks that impact human health. Students gain expertise in evaluating biological and chemical contaminants, disease surveillance, and environmental quality management—skills critical for advancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance. Rooted in the One Health framework, this pathway integrates human, animal, and ecosystem health, producing graduates ready to lead in policy, public health, and sustainability roles.

Interdisciplinary Pathway

This pathway enables students to customise their studies across our three specialisations. Students gain broad-based expertise and technical competencies that cut across sectors, preparing them to respond to complex, real-world environmental challenges. Whether addressing climate change, promoting public health, leveraging geospatial technologies, or advancing clean energy solutions, graduates will be equipped to contribute to global goals such as the Sustainable Development Goals and Paris Agreement targets. The generic pathway is ideal for students seeking a holistic foundation that opens doors to diverse careers in government, industry, NGOs, and academia.

1. Core Courses (9 AU)

All students, regardless of pathway, must complete 9 AU by taking the courses listed below:

2. Prescribed Electives (12 AU for students in the Specialised Pathway)

Students in the Specialised Pathway must complete 12 AU, comprising:

• ES6001 Challenges and Strategies in Environmental Science and Sustainability: Research and Practice (Capstone)
• One compulsory course within the selected Specialisation*
• Any two other courses within the selected Specialisation

3. Unrestricted Electives (9-21 AU depending on pathway)

Students in the Specialised Pathway must complete 9 AU, while those in the Interdisciplinary Pathway must complete 21 AU. Students from either pathway may also take courses from the Prescribed Electives basket to fulfil their Unrestricted Electives requirement.

Our programme has received endorsement from the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) under key UN thematic areas which include Sustainable Cities and Health and Development, recognizing its strong alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This further enhances the global relevance and standing of the programme, particularly for students who are keen on sustainability-focused careers. Upon graduation, all students in the Master of Science in Environmental Sustainability Science programme will receive individualised UNITAR-endorsed certificates.

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