The Department offers a research degree where students follow an approved programme of research supervised by a member of academic staff. The thesis is assessed solely on the basis of that research by 2 individually appointed examiners. Our research is highly interdisciplinary across the natural and social sciences, ranging from atmospheric chemistry to environmental economics and policy analysis; and our programmes are targeted at individuals with a background in environmental science or a related field wishing to pursue a senior research post in the public or private sectors, or a career in academia. Our research expertise spans the whole spectrum of environmental science and is aligned to 3 main themes: Earth systems and environmental change; ecosystems and society; environmental health.