Graduate Diploma in Environmental Policy and Management


Make a real impact

Responding effectively to environmental problems involves far more than applying scientific knowledge, or the ‘top-down’ regulation of people and their environments. The future of our planet relies on informed and creative thinking around policy and practice. This kind of environmental expertise is not only in high demand, but critical.  

Our one-year graduate diploma is suited to mid-career environmental management professionals looking to update their knowledge, students interested in related research and recent graduates seeking a career in the area.

What will you do?

  • Complete our core course, Environmental Planning and Governance.
  • Undertake electives chosen from a select list that includes courses such as Environmental Impact Assessment, Regional Planning and Community Engagement.
  • Build advanced communication skills.
  • Consider innovative ways to address the signature environmental issues of our time.

Where could it take you?

You could set up environmental programs for the public to air their concerns or better understand issues that affect them. You might negotiate environmental policy design with private businesses and government sectors. Perhaps you’ll research economic incentives or decentralised solutions to environmental problems through a masters degree.


  • Drive the creation of policy that protects our environment
  • Ranked in the top 150-200 in the world for Geography^
  • 91% full-time employment for postgrad environmental studies graduates

^QS World University Rankings, 2022

Thinking of studying soon?

  • 2025

    Ready to start your studies in 2025? You can apply to the University of Adelaide or University of South Australia now before continuing on to the new Adelaide University in 2026. When the time comes to transfer, we'll be here at every step, ensuring you're well supported with personalised advice and a detailed study plan.

  • 2026

    Planning to start your studies in 2026? You can apply to
    Adelaide University directly. Applications are currently open for international students and will open for Australian students in August 2025.

Entry Requirements

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Before applying make sure you understand the eligibility and entry requirements for your chosen degree.

Look out for any prerequisites or assumed knowledge subjects. Some degrees also have additional entry requirements like interviews and auditions.

Domestic applicants

SATAC Code 3GD011
Deferment Yes - 2 year
Intake February and July
Selection Criteria
Graduate entry

Higher Education Study A completed Bachelors degree or equivalent or a completed Graduate Certificate in Environmental Policy and Management.

Fees and Scholarships

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Domestic applicants

Indicative annual tuition fees
Australian Full-fee place: $33,000

Where the standard duration of the program is less than one year the full cost of the program is displayed.

FEE-HELP
This is an Australian full-fee program. As a domestic student you may be eligible to:

  • receive a zero interest government assistance package to cover your course fees and
  • use over $100,000 in HELP assistance over your lifetime
Check your eligibility today at Study Assist

Scholarships

Scholarships are not only for high achievers—they are also available to provide students with an equal opportunity to study at university, no matter where they live or what their financial situation might be.

Scholarships are available to both new and continuing students. We encourage students to apply for any scholarships for which they may be eligible.

To browse scholarships offered by the University, visit: University Scholarships

To explore scholarships offered by organisations external to the University, visit: External Scholarships

Careers

Career Readiness

Graduates of the program will be well equipped to take up senior policy roles in government and a variety of roles in environmental management for government agencies, industry and the not-for-profit sector.

The University of Adelaide Careers Service prepares, inspires and empowers students to achieve successful career transitions and connect with industry.

Graduate Attributes

The objective of this program is to produce graduates with specific attributes as outlined in University of Adelaide Graduate Attributes.
  1. Deep discipline knowledge and intellectual breadth
  2. Creative and critical thinking, and problem solving
  3. Teamwork and communication skills
  4. Professionalism and leadership readiness
  5. Intercultural and ethical competency
  6. Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural competency
  7. Digital capabilities
  8. Self-awareness and emotional intelligence

Potential careers

Graduates of this program have gone on to roles such as:

Environmental Consultant;  Environmental Management;  Environmental Project Officer;  Policy Adviser;  Land Resources and Land Care;  Natural Resource Manager;  Natural Resource Planner;  Catchment Management;  Corporate Policy Advisor;  Corporate Sustainability Professional ...

Degree Structure

Graduate Diploma students complete the core course Environmental Planning and Governance and choose three elective courses.

Assessment

Written assignments, oral presentation, research, exams.

Related Degrees

Further Study

The University of Adelaide is committed to regular reviews of the courses and programs it offers to students. The University of Adelaide therefore reserves the right to discontinue or vary programs and courses without notice. Please read the important information contained in the disclaimer.

Last updated: Thursday, 12 Sep 2024