COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Climate Science is a 200-point degree designed to build deep scientific expertise and practical skills to address the growing challenges of climate change. The structure of the program includes 25 points of foundational core subjects at level 3, 75 points of discipline core subjects, 75 points of discipline electives, and 25 points dedicated to professional skill development. The foundational core introduces essential knowledge through subjects such as Modern and Future Climate and Atmospheric Processes and Composition, establishing an understanding of how the atmosphere functions and how the climate system evolves. Students then progress to discipline core subjects that provide advanced scientific training in areas including climate modelling, climate change science, past climate systems, and current research topics, supported by a capstone experience through the Current Topics in Climate Science subject. The capstone is completed either through an Industry Project or a Research Project, undertaken across a full year, enabling students to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges or academic research. The program’s flexibility allows students to tailor their learning through 75 points of discipline electives chosen from thematic streams such as Climate Dynamics or Climate Change. Students selecting the Climate Dynamics stream complete subjects that explore atmospheric and oceanic processes, tropical climate behaviour, weather and climate extremes, and advanced storm systems, supported by additional elective options. Those choosing the Climate Change stream examine global environmental change, climate policy and governance, adaptation strategies, and mitigation approaches. Professional skill development is supported through an emphasis on internships, encouraging students to gain industry connections and apply their learning in practical settings that contribute directly to meaningful environmental and societal outcomes. Through its combination of scientific depth, applied research opportunities, and professional engagement, the Master of Climate Science prepares graduates for careers in climate research, government policy, environmental consulting, climate risk analysis, and sustainability strategy, enabling them to contribute to informed responses to an issue that affects every sector of society.