The Postgraduate Diploma in Environment and Sustainability at Birkbeck, University of London explores the relationship between policy, practice and the ecological environment and the development of effective strategies for addressing the threats and opportunities posed by environmental issues. As the programme is offered through part-time, evening, face-to-face study, it provides a distinctive opportunity for practitioners to combine study with a continuing career.

Aimed at people from a wide range of backgrounds, it is suitable for anyone who wishes to develop a deeper understanding of the key drivers of environmental policy developments in the UK and internationally. It is relevant for managers with responsibility for environmental affairs in the public or private sector, members of a regulatory body, members of environmental pressure groups, or those with a general interest in ecological issues.

Highlights

  • Listen to an introductory lecture:Ê'Climate Change and the River Thames'Ê(delivered by Becky Briant).Ê
  • Our location in central London offers excellent access to a wide range of research resources, including theÊBirkbeck Library,Êthe LSE Library of Political and Economic Science (LSE),Êthe Royal Geographical SocietyÊandÊSenate House Library (University of London).Ê
  • TheÊDepartment of GeographyÊhas contacts with many public and private sector organisations, professional bodies and researchers at other academic institutions, which can lead to important networking opportunities.
  • OurÊacademic staffÊare experts in their respective fields, publishing and teaching in a wide range of topics including climate modelling, renewable energy, flooding and coastal adaptation.
  • In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF), Sociology at Birkbeck was ranked 13th in the UK.Ê

Careers and Employability

Graduates go on to careers in business, environmental management, local government, policy work, and in environmental groups and charities. Possible professions include geographical information systems officer, nature conservation officer, or environmental consultant. This degree can also be useful in becoming a planning and development surveyor or town planner.