The Master of Environmental Science and Law is an innovative program involving interdisciplinary study across the fields of science and law. The program is unique and designed to integrate disciplines normally considered separately.

The Master of Environmental Science and Law (MESL) program allows students to undertake complementary units in the fields of environmental science and environmental law. It provides science graduates with the opportunity to extend their scientific knowledge into the area of the environment, as well as providing an introduction to the field of environmental law and policy. For law graduates, the opportunity is to extend their knowledge into environmental aspects of law, as well as to gain an understanding of some of the concepts underpinning environmental science. The program integrates disciplines which are normally considered separately and which are difficult to study coherently outside of the MESL program.

The MESL program has been designed to accommodate both science and law graduates as well as those “experienced” in either field. It provides the opportunity for scientists to gain a qualification to compliment their environmental experience and to acquire knowledge in areas of policy and management. It introduces lawyers to a more comprehensive knowledge of the laws and policies relating to the environment and a generalised understanding of the science that underpins them. The program is also designed for the “inexperienced” student, who may not have a background in science or law, but who has a committed interest in the environment, as well as for those who simply want a career change, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their interests.

On campus attendance pattern

Full time, Part time

Course level

Master by Coursework (Undifferentiated)

Handbook website link

http://www.usyd.edu.au/handbooks/science/00_introduction.shtml