SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT + ENVIRONMENT + CONSERVATION BIOLOGY
POSTGRAD COURSE GUIDE natural sciences
COULD BECOME A REWILDING EXPERT A driving force in the green economy. Conservation scientist. Sustainability consultant. Would you like to use your passion for nature to reshape the world? The global transition to a net-zero future is creating new industries, new jobs – and a new green economy. About much more than emissions reduction, the green economy is building our capacity to adapt to climate change, reduce waste, reuse materials, promote biodiversity and enhance ecosystem function. Achieving these goals will rely on workers skilled in monitoring, managing and protecting natural resources. Macquarie University is ranked 39th in the world for its contribution towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals*, and 1st in the world for SDG 14 – Life below water. Our sustainability-focused postgraduate degrees – Master of Sustainability, Master of Environment and Master of Conservation Biology – will give you the sought-after specialist skills needed to preserve our rich biodiversity and marine environments and excel in the green economy. Macquarie believes in bringing diverse groups of people together to solve the world’s big challenges – even those without a science background. We take a unique, interdisciplinary approach to learning and problem solving and to giving you the practical skills you need to develop meaningful solutions to global challenges. *THE Impact Rankings 2023
FIND OUT MORE AND APPLY TODAY. mq.edu.au/study/find-a-course/science/ conservation-and-sustainability CRICOS Provider 00002J | FSE58356
FOREWORD
in service of the planet Postgraduate study in natural sciences at Macquarie University opens the door to a career of planet-changing potential.
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s we stand at the tipping point of unprecedented environmental challenges, the call for dedicated people to spearhead solutions has never been louder. For people contemplating postgraduate study, the realms of environment, conservation biology, and sustainable development offer not only greater knowledge but the chance to actively shape the future of our planet. Climate change, species extinction and resource depletion demand urgent attention, and postgraduate study in the natural sciences offers a real opportunity to delve deep into the intricacies of our ecological systems. The interplay between human activities and the environment requires a multidisciplinary approach — postgraduate degrees equip students with the skills to navigate this landscape, developing the new generation of leaders required to implement innovative solutions. Students in the School of Natural Sciences
“THE CALL FOR DEDICATED PEOPLE TO SPEARHEAD SOLUTIONS HAS NEVER BEEN LOUDER”
can become catalysts for change, influencing policies, driving community initiatives and working at the frontline of research that informs critical decision-making. In extending your study you’ll join a community of individuals committed to a common cause. This network provides invaluable support, facilitating the exchange of ideas and fostering partnerships extending beyond the classroom into the global arena. Instead of being dismayed or depressed by the growing impact of climate change, we can act to stem the damage, reducing carbon emissions and inventing a more sustainable future. I hope this guide inspires you to follow that path. Tim Flannery Macquarie alumnus and former Australian of the Year (2007)
CHECK OUT CAREERSWITHSTEM.COM FOR MORE INSIGHTS, INFORMATION, INSPIRATION AND ADVICE ABOUT NATURAL SCIENCES CAREERS!
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COURSE GUIDE: NATURAL SCIENCES
BIG PICTURE
NATURAL NEXT STEP Looking for an impactful career in the natural sciences? A postgraduate qualification will equip you with the skills to make a tangible difference.
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ustralia’s unique ecosystems and biodiversity face growing threats from climate change, habitat loss and urban expansion. In response, many organisations – from NGOs and research institutes to startups, consultancies and government agencies – are ramping up their investments in sustainability and conservation. To deliver change, they’re actively seeking individuals with a deep understanding of these critical, future-focussed fields. By pursuing a Master’s degree in sustainable development, conservation biology or the environment, you are equipping yourself for an impactful career in a diverse range of potential roles, whether you’re devising conservation strategies, consulting on climate solutions, or guiding urban planning initiatives with a sustainability lens.
MASTER OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Choose this course if you…
MASTER OF ENVIRONMENT This course is for you if…
✔ Aspire to lead in sustainable policy and strategy. ✔ Want to transition from related fields to in-depth sustainability solutions.
✔ You’re passionate about understanding and addressing environmental challenges. ✔ You want to integrate your background with a broader understanding of environmental systems.
What you’ll learn:
You’ll graduate knowing:
✔ Comprehensive strategies for a sustainable future. ✔ Hands-on skills to tackle real-world sustainability challenges.
✔ The intricacies of environmental systems, policy, and management. ✔ Strategies for mitigating environmental impacts and promoting sustainable practices.
Course highlights: ✔ Blend expertise from diverse disciplines including business, law, policy, geography and environmental science. ✔ Engage in real-world consulting projects. ✔ Options for deeper study with a Master of Research.
Key course features:
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✔ I nterdisciplinary approach linking science, policy, and practical applications. ✔ Hands-on projects with industry partners. ✔ Electives tailored to current environmental trends and demands.
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Get the postgraduate edge Give your employ ment and ear ning potential a ser ious boost
WHAT’S THAT JOB? Let’s look into some of the roles a postgraduate qualification in the natural sciences could lead to:
Median Full-time Salary (2022) Undergraduate: $68,000 Coursework Postgrad: $91,600 Research Postgrad: $96,000
CONSERVATION POLICYMAKER Develop strategies and regulations to protect natural areas and biodiversity. Work with government agencies or NGOs on public policy.
Full ime Employme-T nt (2022) Und ergraduates: 78.5% Postgrad Cou rsework: 89.4% Postgrad Res earch: 84.7%
CLIMATE CONSULTANT Provide expert advice to businesses and governments on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST Investigate and analyse environmental issues, developing solutions to protect our planet. Work in research institutions, government agencies or private companies.
SUSTAINABILITY CONSULTANT
MASTER OF CONSERVATION BIOLOGY Dive into this degree if you... ✔ Want to be at the forefront of biodiversity protection and habitat restoration. ✔ Are keen to shift from a related discipline to specialised conservation biology expertise.
What you’ll master: ✔ Cutting-edge techniques such as GIS spatial mapping for conserving threatened species and ecosystems. ✔ Fieldwork proficiency to study and safeguard biodiversity in diverse habitats.
THREATENED SPECIES ADVISER Work for conservation agencies or research institutions to develop conservation strategies for species at risk of extinction. This role requires deep biological knowledge, research capabilities and stakeholder engagement skills.
Course standouts: ✔ Emphasis on real-world conservation research and case studies. ✔ Collaborate with leading conservation experts in a research-active environment. ✔ Opportunities for fieldwork and industry collaborations and partnerships.
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MORRIS MCLENNAN / SOURCE: 2022 GRADUATE OUTCOMES SURVEY
Work with industry or government to drive sustainability outcomes. You may be called on to develop, report or audit corporate social responsibility (CSR) plans or assess energy, water, waste and carbon impacts and advise on sustainabile purchasing practices, green building design, and construction approaches, working with employees and stakeholders to improve sustainability culture and practices.
COURSE GUIDE: NATURAL SCIENCES
IN FOCUS
Location:
Duration:
• In person, on campus • North Ryde, Sydney
• 1 , 1.5, or 2 years (or equivalent part time), depending on prior experience, learning or qualifications
• Intakes in February and July
IN FOCUS: MASTER OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Get ready for an impactful career in the green economy.
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s the global focus shifts toward sustainability and economic equality, there’s a growing demand for trained professionals who can help drive progress in these areas. The Master of Sustainable Development at Macquarie University offers you a comprehensive overview of this vital, future-focussed field. The multidisciplinary course combines insights from areas like environmental sciences, business, policy, geography and law, with the ability to explore key topics such as
sustainability accounting, urbanism, environmental law and climate change, and to tailor the course to your passion and interests through electives. A standout feature is the hands-on consulting project in the final semester, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, sharpening both analytical and writing skills. Interested in deepening your expertise? Continue with a Master of Research, graduating as a thought leader in this critical area.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The field of sustainable development opens doors to diverse career opportunities. Here are just a few examples of potential employers and professions where you could carve out your niche:
PROFESSIONS
EMPLOYERS
• Climate change and sustainability consultant
•G overnment agencies and policy institutes
• Climate consultant
•N GOs and international humanitarian organisations
• Environmental accountant • Net zero program manager • Renewable energy leader • Resilience adviser • Science-to-policy director
JOANNE STEPHAN
• Social sustainability manager • Sustainability data assurance and reporting director • Urban or regional planner
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•S ustainability consulting firms • E nvironmental management, conservation agencies •B anks, financial institutions, and corporate businesses • E nergy, environment and resource management sectors •U rban development and infrastructure companies •A cademic institutions and research bodies
bit.ly/mqusustainabledevelopment
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CAREER CASE STUDIES
WHAT IS THE CIRCULAR ECONOMY? Unlike a traditional linear economy, a circular economy aims to stop waste from being produced in the first place and keep our resources and materials in circulation for longer.
Sustainability agent
RAW MATERIALS
DESIGN
RECYCLING
James Balzer’s Master of Sustainable Development has helped him make real change in public policy.
PRODUCTION, REMANUFACTURING
CIRCULAR ECONOMY DISTRIBUTION
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CONSUMPTION, USE, REUSE, REPAIR
RESIDUAL WASTE
JAMES BALZER PROJECT OFFICER
COLLECTION SOURCE: CSIRO
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE The Master of Sustainability includes several opportunities for you to get out of the classroom and into the real world. There’s no better way to consolidate all the theory you’ve been learning in a coursework degree than to apply it in a real-world setting. That’s where the capstone unit of the Master of Sustainable Development comes in. This involves delivering a consulting project to a private organisation – allowing you to use your newfound skills and knowledge in an employment environment. Each year the Master of Sustainable Development students at Macquarie University deliver consulting projects to more than 10 organisations.
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ames was always interested in climate change and sustainability, but it was during his university study that he decided joining the public service would be a rewarding and engaging career path. Armed with a Master of Sustainable Development from Macquarie University, he now gets to put his skills and convictions to work as a project officer in the NSW Government Office of Energy and Climate Change. His role sees him helping the government reduce carbon emissions on big infrastructure projects, using the ‘circular economy’ system to manage waste and materials in a more responsible and sustainable manner. “For example, I liaise with environmental notfor-profits, local governments and construction companies to explore how to better manage waste and infrastructure project materials, such as concrete, asphalt and cement. “We also work with other state government agencies, such as Infrastructure NSW and Transport for NSW to work out how to better manage their projects in a more sustainable, less carbon intensive manner.” James says he loves working with interesting people and organisations who, like him, are motivated by delivering sustainability value for society. And he’s excited by the emergence of sustainable finance. “I think that enables the robust mobilisation of capital towards important and profitable green industries – necessary for Australia if it wants to have a progressive, 21st century economy.”
“WE WORK OUT HOW TO MANAGE PROJECTS IN A LESS CARBON INTENSIVE MANNER”
COURSE GUIDE: NATURAL SCIENCES
IN FOCUS
Location:
Duration:
• In person, on campus • North Ryde, Sydney
• 1 , 1.5, or 2 years (or equivalent part time), depending on prior experience, learning or qualifications
• Intakes in February and July
IN FOCUS: MASTER OF ENVIRONMENT
Learn the skills you need to shape a more sustainable and resilient future.
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acquarie University’s Master of Environment is designed to address the pressing challenges of environmental change, preparing you for roles in both traditional sectors like construction and agriculture and newer green industries such as renewable energy. Prepare yourself for the growing green job market, predicted to provide more than 100 million jobs by 2030, by drawing on the University’s strong industry ties to build professional networks and work on realworld environmental problems. You can study essential areas like environmental planning, climate studies, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and can dive into more specialised subjects like marine science. A central part of the degree is training in technical report writing, equipping you with the skills and know-how to effectively communicate and analyse current environmental issues. Want to dig deeper? Follow the coursework degree with a Master of Research, distinguishing yourself as an expert in the field.
FULLY EQUIPPED Macquarie University’s School of Natural Sciences offers access to cuttingedge infrastructure and facilities for hands-on learning and research. Your Master’s degree doesn’t have to be tied to a desk or stuck on a screen. Dive into marine studies with the Aquatic Facility, explore diverse flora at the Arboretum (which also offers a serene space for relaxation), or make use of the 11-hectare Fauna Park for animal behaviour research. You can also benefit from access to state-of-the-art equipment and laboratories focussed on climate science, environmental quality, molecular analysis and more.
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CAREER CASE STUDIES
JOEL BURGESS SUSTAINABILITY JOURNALIST
Positive career change With his Master of Environment, journalist Joel Burgess is looking to move into environmental policy.
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s a tech and sustainability journalist, Joel has extensively covered what companies are doing to reduce their environmental impact. So he saw environmental management as a growing field with a lot of opportunity. “It is actually a particularly challenging period for journalism,” Joel says. “There’s a huge rise in smaller sites publishing false or misleading information and the rise of AI means there will be more content than ever flooding the web.” By adding a Master of Environment from Macquarie University to his existing qualifications in Arts and writing, Joel is now set up to make a career change that suits his interests and skills. “Working on policy to reduce carbon emissions
and the broad use of plastic is an area I’m particularly keen on exploring,” Joel says. His advice to others considering a career switch? "The workforce is competitive so you need to be in a field that you're interested in, but don't forget to play to your strengths."
“THE WORKFORCE IS COMPETITIVE SO YOU NEED TO BE IN A FIELD THAT YOU ARE INTERESTED IN, BUT DON’T FORGET TO PLAY TO YOUR STRENGTHS”
Most sectors will be impacted by climate change, so postgraduate qualifications in this critical area will set you up for employment in a diverse range of settings. Here are just a few key examples:
PROFESSIONS
EMPLOYERS
•A cademic/researcher
•S tartups and large corporations
•A ir quality and pollution manager •C limate consultant •C onservation consultant • E nvironmental scientist • L andcare and catchment manager • L ocal council officer •N ational parks manager •C limate consultant •R iver management officer
•C atchment management authorities •C limate change and sustainability consultancies •C onservation agencies •G overnment agencies and departments • L ocal councils •N GOs •M ining/oil and gas companies •P ower and water providers •S tate forest and National Park authorities •U niversities
JOANNE STEPHAN
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
bit.ly/mquenvironment
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COURSE GUIDE: NATURAL SCIENCES
IN FOCUS
Location:
Duration:
• In person, on campus • North Ryde, Sydney
• 1 , 1.5, or 2 years (or equivalent part time), depending on prior experience, learning or qualifications
• Intakes in February and July
IN FOCUS: MASTER OF CONSERVATION BIOLOGY Equip yourself for a career protecting Earth’s fragile ecosystems and diverse life forms.
MORRIS MCLENNAN
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iodiversity isn’t just about the variety of life on Earth, it’s also the intricate balance that supports our access to clean water and air, and our food supply. As Earth’s ecosystems face increasing challenges, from climate change to habitat destruction, the need to understand and protect them has never been more important. Macquarie University’s Master of Conservation Biology is a program tailored to equip you with skills and knowledge to make a tangible difference. Through a blend of theory and hands-on experience, the course covers areas including climate-change biology, regional and global conservation, remote sensing and more. Macquarie University is a research-active environment, which means you can access the latest findings in conservation biology and develop your own research projects, with opportunities to work alongside leading scientists. The university’s animal behaviour and conservation research facility and advanced laboratories, along with industrybased internships in the final year, all offer you opportunities for vital hands-on experiences, ensuring you’re prepared to tackle real-world conservation challenges when you graduate.
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CAREER CASE STUDIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Here’s some examples of what your career path might look like within conservation biology:
PROFESSIONS • Conservation policymaker • Environmental or geotechnical consultant • National parks manager • Project manager • Scientific education officer • Threatened species adviser
EMPLOYERS
Serving the public In her role as a science outreach officer, Anu Vijayan combines creativity with science and research smarts to help prevent harm in the workplace.
ANU VIJAYAN SCIENCE OUTREACH OFFICER
• Agricultural agencies • Australian Museum • Conservation agencies • Environmental and conservation groups • Environmental protection agencies • Fisheries and forestry agencies • National Parks and Wildlife Service • Research institutes • State forest and national park authorities • Water and resource management companies
RESEARCH IN ACTION Macquarie University researchers are making a real impact on conserving biodiversity - here’s just one example. The devastating bushfires of 2019/20 impacted billions of wild animals – a disaster that caused a spike in the use of antibiotics to treat injured wildlife. This aroused concern among experts, given that antibiotics overuse causes bacterial resistance against this crucial tool in our medical toolkit. In response, Macquarie researchers – led by Professor Michelle Power – teamed up with Adelaide Zoo and wildlife rescue groups to develop hands-on training resources to promote the most effective and safe use of antibiotics. Their work is particularly important for koalas, whose populations are at risk from the sexually transmitted disease chlamydia. “If the bacteria that cause chlamydia acquire resistance to those critical antibiotics then we will have no drugs to fight the disease, leaving koalas more threatened,” says Michelle.
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ith a 10-year career as a visual effects artist, Anu never saw herself working in the public service, nor in health and safety. But with her Master of Conservation Biology and Master of Research from Macquarie University, she’s now putting both her science and creative skills to work. The organisation Anu works for is the research arm of SafeWork NSW. “We conduct research to identify solutions that will prevent harm in the workplace,” Anu says. “Our work ranges from identifying solutions to prevent Silica dust, or welding fumes to identifying new and emerging threats like the ethics of using AI.” In her role as a science outreach officer, Anu helps recruit research participants and ensures the research outputs and resources the organisation produce get to the people that need it. This includes producing posters, informative videos and other online resources. Prior to her current role, Anu worked with education group G.AT.E.WAYS creating fun and educational science workshops for children, teaching them importance of biodiversity and significance of nature-inspired, sustainable solutions. Anu says while she didn’t initially envisage a career in the public service, it turned out to be a fantastic avenue.
“YOU CAN DO MEANINGFUL WORK, IT IS VERY EXCITING AND YOU GET TO DO NEW AND DIFFERENT THINGS AS WELL”
bit.ly/mquconservationbiology
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COURSE GUIDE: NATURAL SCIENCES
NEXT STEPS
PICTURING YOUR PATHWAY There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to study and career paths. Here are three example pathways into a Master’s course at Macquarie University’s School of Natural Sciences, to help illustrate the options available.
Prior study: Bachelor of Science (Biology)
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Prior study: Bachelor of Media and Communications
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Prior study: Bachelor of International Relations
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Prior experience: Internship at a wildlife NGO during undergrad years.
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Prior experience: Five years as a communications specialist for a green tech startup.
Prior experience: Fresh out of uni, but passionate about tackling climate change.
Postgrad potential: With this degree, the Master of Conservation Biology would be a natural next step, boosting your employability in the conservation sector. Depending on your electives, and given that internship experience, you may also be looking at credit recognition, fast-tracking your postgraduate journey!
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Postgrad potential: The Master of Sustainable Development is a solid way to boost your comms strengths and deepen your sustainability expertise. You’ll be primed for roles like sustainability analyst or comms consultant, with opportunities in NGOs, business, and government sectors.
Postgrad potential: Your Bachelor’s degree qualifies you to side-step into the two-year Master of Environment course, broadening your career horizons and preparing you to help shape a greener tomorrow. With these qualifications, you’re on the path to a global career fighting the good fight!
MON EY TALK We outline some key factors to consider when it comes to paying for postgrad We know postgraduate qualifications boost your earning potential, but what’s the upfront investment? Total fees for your chosen Master’s degree will vary based on the units you select, any government support you receive and credits awarded for prior learning or experience. The good news? Macquarie University offers several scholarships to ease the cost of study – these include support for disadvantaged students, loyalty schemes for eligible alumni, and scholarships that recognise excellence in science, IT and engineering. Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP), which are subsidised by the government, are offered for the Master of Environment, Master of Sustainability and Master of Conservation Biology courses. Depending on the fee place you are offered, you may also be eligible for a FEE-HELP or HECS-HELP loan, deferring the cost of study until you have graduated and are earning in your dream sustainability job.
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Refraction Media acknowledges the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. This edition was published in January 2024.
MORRIS MCLENNAN
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