Program Overview

Air Pollution Management and Control MSc / PGDip

The Air Pollution Management and Control MSc is a unique programme in the UK, offering unparalleled expertise and knowledge in the field. This course enhances your skills through a blend of taught modules and an independent research project. You’ll have the opportunity to conduct an in-depth investigation into specific aspects of air pollution that interest you, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding and practical experience in the field.

Course Structure

While the exact course content may vary, here is what you can expect to study each semester. This is based on a full-time Masters course which will run over 12 months in full-time mode. There is also scope to undertake this course on a part-time basis.

• Semester 1
• Semester 2
• Semester 3

Semester 1

In Semester 1, you will study:

• Air Quality Data Analysis and Interpretation (20 credits)
• Causes and Effects of Air Pollution (20 credits)
• Theoretical Meteorology: Atmospheric Composition and Physics (20 credits)

Course Highlights

The Air Pollution Management and Control MSc is a unique programme in the UK, offering unparalleled expertise and knowledge in the field.

• Join a leading Russell Group University, with a strong reputation in Atmospheric Sciences
• An established course running successfully for over 10 years by staff who are leaders in their field
• The course is built upon successful air pollution practices in the UK

Students benefit from a cutting-edge curriculum, hands-on experience, and access to a network of industry professionals. This programme not only equips you with the skills to tackle air pollution challenges but also enhances your career prospects in the environmental sector, making you a highly sought-after professional globally.

Course Delivery

Our Air Pollution Management and Control course includes a wide variety of learning and teaching.

• Teaching is delivered through lectures, workshops and problem sessions, and off-campus visits to sites with specific air pollution challenges
• A variety of assessment methods are used, including written coursework, video documentary, case studies, oral presentations and standard examinations
• The major research project is assessed through a written dissertation and an oral examination

Module Information

The course comprises of a number of modules, and represents 120 credits in total. The research component of the course comprises an individual research project into an area of the students' choice (60 credits).

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

The following must be taken:

• Module Title | Credits | Semester
  ---|---|---
  Air Pollution Chemistry | 20 | Semester 2
  Air Pollution Management and Control Technology | 20 | Semester 2
  Atmospheric Data Processing | 20 | Semester 1
  Causes and Effects of Air Pollution | 20 | Semester 1
  Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation | 20 | Semester 2
  Theoretical Meteorology: Atmospheric Composition and Physics | 20 | Semester 1

You must take one of the following:

• Module Title | Credits | Semester
  ---|---|---
  Dissertation with Placement | 60 |
  Dissertation/Research Paper | 60 | Semester

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.

• 2:1 Honours Degree (or equivalent) in a science or engineering subject
• A 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in a science or engineering subject, or an unrelated degree or a degree without honours followed by at least two years appropriate postgraduate experience.

English Language Requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

• IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band
• TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking and 19 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill

Fees and Scholarships

• £11,250 (full-time) / £5,625 (part-time)
• We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.

Paying Your Tuition Fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Application Process

To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.

• 28 August 2026: Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.

Career Opportunities

This sought-after qualification is recognised in the UK and internationally. Graduates often become air quality experts in consultancies, industry, or local government.

• You could work in air quality management, forecasting, regulation, industrial emission control, environmental and health impact assessment, and sectors like transport, energy, waste, and chemicals.
• Graduates secure jobs in environmental consultancy (UK and abroad), local and national government, the Environment Agency, and industry. Some pursue PhD studies.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Related Courses

• Applied Meteorology and Climatology MSc
• Environmental Health MSc

Student Experience

At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.

• Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home.
• We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.