Programme Introduction
Learn about Earth and Environmental Sciences and tackle critical environmental issues
The Earth and Environmental Sciences Programme (EESC) is for students interested in the scientific understanding of the interactions between the solid Earth, atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere. We study real-world problems affecting the Earth’s environment, such as global climate change, natural hazards and anthropogenic pollution through an interdisciplinary approach integrating applied physics, chemistry, biology, statistics, computation, machine learning and more. Our mission is to equip students with an in-depth scientific background and the latest technical skills to observe, identify, understand, analyse and address these critical problems.
Craft Your Path
EESC offers a flexible curriculum with options to specialize in the following streams:
- Atmospheric Science is the study of the physical and chemistry processes governing the Earth’s atmosphere. It focuses on phenomena relevant for understanding weather, climate and atmospheric composition, their variability and changes, and their interactions with the hydrosphere, geosphere and biosphere.
- Geology and Geophysics is the study of the solid Earth, including its formation history, physical properties, and active processes, through integrating remote sensing, seismic, field, and numerical modelling techniques.
- Environmental Science and Technology integrates fundamental concepts from chemistry and biology to address and mitigate environmental challenges. Our curriculum is accredited by the Hong Kong Institute of Qualified Environmental Professionals (HKIQEP).
In addition, core courses included in all streams, provide students with a solid scientific background and opportunities to engage in field and laboratory work. Our curriculum places particular emphasis on building students’ capabilities in quantitative and analytical skills, such as numerical modeling, programming, statistics and data analysis.
EESC offers experiential learning beyond the classroom, including exchange opportunities in overseas universities, and internships in the Hong Kong Observatory, Environmental Protection Department, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, and other government agencies, geotechnical and environmental consulting firms, environmental organizations, and the educational sector. There are also ample opportunities to work closely with faculty in undergraduate research, seminars and workshops.
The small class sizes of EESC foster a close-knit atmosphere among teachers and students. They engage on a personal level, forming bonds that extend beyond the classroom. We also provide an extensive network of resources and opportunities for being part of the massive CUHK institution.
Career Prospects
Prepare yourself with the essential ability to succeed across diverse professional paths and advanced technical fields in our EESC programme. The breadth of material covered provides our graduates an excellent foundational for jobs in the government, non-governmental organizations and industry, including the following:
- Geotechnical survey and engineering
- Meteorological, marine and climate services
- Climate, energy and environmental consulting and management
- Environmental protection and conservation
- The educational sector
Employers include the Environmental Protection Department, the Hong Kong Observatory, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, Ocean Park Hong Kong, Arup, AECOM, EGS, GeoRisk Solutions, Gammon, Tysan, Ambit Geospatial Solution, Cathay Pacific, CLP, Fugro, HKT, and more.
For those aiming to elevate their career trajectory, our programme provides sufficient depth to prepare graduates for graduate school in the earth and environmental sciences and related disciplines. We also have career workshops that equip individuals with essential skills and insights, and our programme can be adjusted to accommodate students with particular career goals in mind. We aim to shape well-rounded professionals, ready to shine in a dynamic world of endless opportunities.
If you are interested in this programme, please review the application requirements and deadlines specific to the respective admission scheme to increase your chances of getting accepted.
