The course will foster an awareness not only of the science of environmental and/or rural science concerns, but also of their ethical, sociological and economic dimensions. Throughout the course, participants will be trained in a range of skills from both the natural and social sciences, enabling them to critically address their area of research specialization in a holistic and integrated fashion. Students will also gain experience in practical applications through hands-on projects throughout the course, and will also be able to focus on an area of particular interest to them through directed study units and through their dissertation research.

The Course shall be open to applicants in possession of a first cycle degree obtained with Second Class (Honours) or better, in a discipline related to Earth Systems, or in any other area of study which the Board considers as relevant, and obtained within the ten years previous to registration for the Course. The Board may, at its discretion, recommend the admission of applicants in possession of a first cycle degree obtained with Third Class (Honours), in an area of study which the Board considers as relevant, and obtained within the ten years previous to registration for the Course, provided that the applicants have obtained other qualifications, including relevant experience, following their first cycle degree. The Board may, at its discretion, require such applicants to follow a supplementary or preparatory programme as specified below. Applicants whose first degree was obtained more than ten years previous to registration for the Course may also be admitted, provided that they produce sufficient proof of their competence to follow the Course. The Board may, at its discretion, require such applicants to follow a supplementary or preparatory programme as specified below. All applicants may be asked to demonstrate competence in those skills required by the nature of the proposed research via an extended interview and/or the submission of appropriate documentation. In cases where significant deficiencies are identified, the Board may, at its discretion, require applicants to follow a supplementary and/or preparatory programme, as specified below. Please see the full list of requirements on the website.