Institution: The Open University

How long has it been running? Since 1997

Why was it introduced?

"To meet a need for people to develop skills in environmental decision-making, to manage sustainable development, to introduce environmental management systems into businesses and to aid local community activists," says programme director Professor Ray Ison.

How long does the course take?

Two years. "It's impossible to finish it in one year," Ison says. "You have to complete the taught components before you can register for the dissertation, which takes a year to finish."

Entry requirements

An undergraduate degree in any discipline or relevant work experience approved by the programme director.

Who takes the course?

Students come from a wide range of backgrounds. "Some are highly qualified but want to re-orient their careers towards the environment. Relatively new graduates want to add environmental management to their qualifications. People come from both local authorities and from business," says Ison. Others are interested individuals.

Course content

There are two core courses, one is environmental decision-making - a systems approach and the other is enterprise and the environment. There are also a number of optional courses including environmental ethics and environmental valuation and policy.

And course delivery?

Via printed teaching materials, videos, on-line conferencing and open learning support. One course requires access to a computer.

Cost?

From £5,000 to £6,500 for the full MSc, depending on modules chosen.

Contact: The Open University, Dublin. Tel: 01 67853 or e-mail: R12@open.ac.uk