Who is this course for?

The MSc Global Environmental Economics is designed for individuals who want to build a meaningful career addressing today’s environmental and climate challenges. Whether you are a recent graduate with a passion for sustainability or a professional looking to shift into environmental policy,consultancy, or research, this programme will help you turn ambition into action.

This course welcomes applicants from economics, environmental science, geography, business, and related disciplines, as well as those who bring strong analytical thinking and a desire to influence global environmental decision-making.

You’ll be part of a like-minded community of students and researchers working to shape evidence-based responses to real-world problems such as biodiversity loss, climate change and sustainable resource use.

With a curriculum rooted in real-world application (including climate economics, resource governance, international policy engagement, and practical fieldwork) you’ll gain the tools and experience needed to lead in the global green economy.

What will I study?

The MSc Global Environmental Economics is offered as a one-year full-time or two-year part-time programme. The academic year is divided into two teaching semesters (September to December and January to April), followed by a placement or research project during the summer period.

You will take a set of core modules in environmental economics, sustainability, policy evaluation and quantitative methods, alongside more applied topics such as marine and natural resource economics.

The curriculum places strong emphasis on real-world experience and policy relevance, through fieldwork, international engagement, and research-led teaching. During the summer term, you can choose to complete either a three-month work placement with a relevant organisation, or a minor dissertation focused on a topic of your choice in the field of environmental economics.

Core modules may include:

• Climate Change Economics
• Environmental and Natural Resource Economics
• Sustainability and Resource Governance
• Quantitative Techniques for Policy Evaluation
• Environmental Economic Modelling
• Research Methods

Optional/Applied modules and activities may include:

• Marine Economics and Field-Based Research
• Policy Engagement and Study Visit to Brussels
• Work Placement or Research Dissertation

Core themes include:

• Environmental and Resource Economics
  Explore how economics can help solve environmental challenges, from pollution to biodiversity loss.
• Climate Change and Economic Modelling
  Learn to analyse the economics of climate action using the latest tools in modelling and policy analysis.
• Sustainability and Natural Resource Governance
  Understand global approaches to managing marine, forestry, energy and agricultural resources.
• Quantitative Methods and Policy Evaluation
  Develop analytical skills to evaluate environmental data, policies, and economic outcomes.
• Real-World Fieldwork and International Exposure
  Participate in a marine field school aboard the RV Tom Crean and a Brussels policy field trip with EU institutions.
• Placement or Minor Dissertation
  Choose between a three-month professional placement or a supervised research project, both aligned with your interests and career goals.

Modules are taught by leading researchers and policy experts, many of whom are active in global environmental partnerships, including the UN Climate Change and Universities Partnership Programme.

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

• 3-month work placement
  Apply your learning with a hands-on placement in an environmental organisation, consultancy, or policy body.
• Marine field school
  Spend two days aboard the RV Tom Crean exploring ocean economics through real-world marine research techniques.
• Brussels policy field trip
  Meet EU policymakers and explore how environmental economics informs European energy and climate policy.
• UN Climate Change Partnership
  Engage in research with global impact through our partnership with the UN Climate Change and Universities Programme.
• Small class sizes, big impact
  Learn in a close-knit, supportive environment with expert faculty engaged in world-class sustainability research.
• Career-ready curriculum
  Gain technical, analytical and communication skills demanded by today’s employers in the green economy.

Graduates of the MSc Global Environmental Economics are highly sought after by employers working at the forefront of sustainability, policy, and environmental consultancy - both in Ireland and internationally.

This degree opens doors to exciting and impactful careers across:

• Government departments and public agencies
  Apply your skills to environmental policymaking, regulation, and climate strategy.
• International organisations and NGOs
  Work on sustainability, climate adaptation, and economic development initiatives.
• Private sector and consultancy
  Join environmental and economic consultancy firms, renewable energy companies, or ESG teams
• Research and academia
  Progress to PhD-level research or analytical roles in climate, marine, or resource economics.

Roles that our graduates pursue include:

• Environmental Economist
• Policy Analyst
• Sustainability Consultant
• Climate Policy Advisor
• Renewable Energy Analyst
• Researcher (e.g. marine, forestry, agriculture, energy sectors)

With 81% of graduates employed full-time within a year of finishing the course, this programme equips you with the real-world skills, professional networks, and global outlook to build a successful and meaningful career.

A core element of the MSc Global Environmental Economics is the opportunity to undertake a three-month work placement with a host organisation during the summer term. This practical experience allows students to apply the knowledge and skills developed in class to real-world environmental and economic challenges. Instead of a dissertation, students complete a roughly 3,000 word placement report that details the skills acquired while on placement.

Placement highlights:

• Support and guidance from a dedicated Placement Officer.
• Duration: Typically, 8-12 weeks (May–August).
• Format: Full-time and normally paid.
• Location: Typically, Dublin or Galway based but usually remote working possibilities.
• Supervision: Jointly supported by the host organisation and academic mentor.
• Self-Source: Students can and have been successful in self-sourcing placements subject to the approval of the Programme Director.

Students have worked with a diverse range of partners, including:

• Environmental consultancy firms.
• Government departments and state agencies.
• International NGOs and research centres.
• Renewable energy and sustainability-focused businesses.
• Banking and Finance.

During placement, students engage in tasks such as economic policy analysis, climate modelling, environmental impact assessment, data analysis, and sustainability reporting. Some students continue working with their host organisation beyond the placement period or return later as full-time employees.

What you’ll gain:

• Valuable hands-on experience in the environmental and policy sector
• Stronger employability and professional confidence
• Insight into career pathways in sustainability and economics
• A growing network of industry contacts and mentors

This placement is a standout feature of the programme and one of the most cited benefits by graduates.

• Luke McGrath
• Tom McDermott
• Féidhlim McGowan
• Ashley Piggins
• Stephen Hynes
• Daniel Norton
• Thomas Van Rensburg
• Edel Doherty
• Cian Twomey
• Zongyuan Li
• John Cullinan

How will I learn?

The MSc Global Environmental Economics blends interactive teaching with real-world application. You will learn through small-group seminars, lectures, computer labs, workshops, fieldwork, and one-to-one supervision.

• Classes are taught by expert lecturers actively engaged in environmental economics research and policy advising.
• You’ll gain practical skills through marine field trips, international policy visits, and real datasets.
• In the summer term, you’ll complete either a three-month work placement or a research dissertation, supported by an academic mentor.

This flexible learning environment encourages curiosity, collaboration, and deep engagement with global environmental challenges.

How Will I Be Assessed?

Assessment is continuous and varied, designed to reflect real-world tasks and policy settings. You will be assessed through:

• Individual and group assignments - reports, policy briefs, data analysis and presentations.
• Essays and case studies - applying theory to real environmental problems.
• In-class and online tests - testing your understanding of key economic concepts and modelling tools.
• Work placement evaluation or minor dissertation - a final project demonstrating your applied knowledge and research skills.

Most modules are split 50:50 between continuous assessment and final exams.

Regular feedback and support are built into the programme to help you track your progress and build confidence throughout the year.

Research is at the heart of the MSc Global Environmental Economics. The programme is closely connected to two leading research centres at University of Galway:

• SEMRU - Socio-Economic Marine Research Unit SEMRU conducts interdisciplinary research on the economics of the marine and coastal environment, contributing to policy development at national and EU level.
• CERIS - Centre for Economic Research on Inclusivity and Sustainability CERIS focuses on economic research that supports sustainable and inclusive development, addressing challenges such as climate change, inequality, and resource management.

Students benefit from:

• Guest lectures from research-active staff
• Opportunities to contribute to ongoing research projects
• Supervision from experts involved in policy advising
• Access to cutting-edge research methods and datasets

The programme is also partnered with the UN Climate Change and Universities Partnership Programme, offering students the chance to engage in impactful research addressing climate adaptation and policy innovation at global, regional and local levels.

By studying in this environment, you’ll develop not just deep subject knowledge, but also a researcher’s mindset - curious, critical, and ready to influence change.

Course queries:
economics@universityofgalway.ie

Programme Director(s):
Dr Luke McGrath
Lecturer (Above the Bar) in the Discipline of Economics College of Public Policy, Business and Law
E: luke.mcgrath@universityofgalway.ie

 

University of Galway recognises that knowledge and skills can be acquired from a range of learning experiences. This is in line with the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) goals which aim to recognise all learning achievements by supporting the development of alternative pathways to qualifications (or awards) and by facilitating the recognition of prior learning (RPL).

Graduates of the MSc Global Environmental Economics develop a powerful set of transferable skills that are valued across sectors:

• Analytical thinking Break down complex environmental and economic problems using rigorous data-driven approaches.
• Quantitative and modelling skills Use statistical tools and economic models to evaluate real-world environmental challenges.
• Policy evaluation and communication Translate economic evidence into clear, persuasive insights for decision-makers.
• Independent research Design and complete a major applied research project or deliver value through a professional work placement.
• Teamwork and collaboration Work closely with peers, faculty and professionals in small groups and real-world settings.
• Presentation and reporting Develop confidence in sharing ideas and research to academic, industry, and policy audiences.
• Global awareness Understand international sustainability challenges and how policy and economics intersect across cultures and systems.

These skills are adaptable and future-proof - supporting careers not just in environmental economics, but also in broader roles across consultancy, data analysis, public policy, research and beyond.

Minimum Entry Requirements

Candidates must hold at least a Second Class Honours Level 8 primary degree in a related subject area or hold a primary degree in a related area (which is acceptable to the college) without honours and have three years’ relevant practical experience in the subject area.

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.

English Language Entry Requirements

 For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.

Supporting Documents

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.

Closing Dates

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.

Notes

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
Masters Full Time	1	€7,750		€20,000	€140		€7,890	€20,140
Masters Part Time	1	€4,000			€105		€4,105

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Uniforms

Includes college business suit, restaurant uniform, chef uniform, kitchen knives and kitchen safety shoes. (€676.40 for 2023/2024)

Equipment and Fieldtrips

Some modules incorporate practical laboratories and for these, you may be required to purchase basic safety items such as a laboratory coat or goggles (approx. cost of €xx in Year). Other modules may require a kit of components to be purchased.

Fieldtrips

There are some minor travel costs attached to participating in mandatory fieldtrips. The School endeavours to cover costs as much as possible and keep the contributions from students as low as possible.

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first-class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships
University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

Business Postgraduate Merit Scholarships – J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics

At J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, we are committed to attracting top students from around the world. Our Merit Scholarships provide up to 50% tuition fee coverage across our Taught Master's programmes for high-achieving students.

Key Highlights:

• No application required: All eligible candidates are automatically considered.
• Eligibility: Achieve a H1 (or international equivalent) in your primary degree.
• Competitive selection process: Scholarships are awarded based on merit.

How to Qualify:

• Accept your offer on a Taught Master's programme.
• pay the required deposit to secure your place.

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.  

Research Expertise

Economics at the University of Galway has a long and proud tradition of engaging with environmental issues, both through our teaching and research. The MSc in Global Environmental Economics was introduced in 2018, replacing the previous MSc in Natural Resource Economics and Governance.

Environmental Economics represents one of the core areas of research focus within Economics at the University of Galway, and this is reflected in the presence of two highly active research groups in the area of environmental economics:

The Centre for Economic Research on Inclusivity and Sustainability (CERIS):

The CERIS Mission is to conduct high-quality economic research that helps develop a more inclusive society and sustainable environment, ensuring a better future for all. We aim to better understand individual behaviour and policy decisions, from the local to the global scale.

The Socio-Economic Marine Research Unit (SEMRU):

SEMRU is the foremost marine economic analysis centre in Ireland. SEMRU was established with the objective of expanding marine socio-economic research capability in Ireland, centred around a research cluster in Galway led by the University of Galway and linking with Teagasc and the Marine Institute.