Climate Change Adaptation [from 2011]

This specialisation introduces students to the physical science basis for climate change and its ecological and human health impacts. It examines the different economic instruments and legal tools available or proposed, both nationally and internationally, to mitigate and adapt to climate change and analyses the various emissions trading regimes. Legal and policy decisions in different sectors, such as renewable energy and transport are examined. Society\’s vulnerability to climate change impacts and possible adaptive strategies, with various foci such as human health, biodiversity, natural disaster management (e.g. bushfires and droughts) and urban systems are explored. There is the opportunity to gain practical experience by exploring a theme in climate change via an applied project, possibly in conjunction with an industry partner or one of Griffith\’s research centres.

Economics and Policy

One of the most profound challenges faced by society is how to become sustainable. Addressing this challenge has created exciting careers in environmental economics and policy making across the business, government and community sectors. This specialisation provides training in these professions for people who wish to: upgrade their qualifications, change careers, help to make society more sustainable, or undertake further postgraduate study. The programs are designed for graduates from any discipline. The Masters and Masters Advanced programs provides a stepping stone for people who want to move into more senior management positions. The Masters with Honours and Masters Advanced with Honours programs provide further training in running research projects.

This specialisation comprises core courses that cover both the nature of environmental issues and responses by government, business and the community and a range of electives drawn from areas such as environmental planning, education, the social sciences and science. An interdisciplinary approach is taken that covers the scientific data, economic tools, management systems, policy making, regulation and community action. Teaching staff have a broad range of expertise and experience and many have won awards for their work. Overall, the Griffith School of Environment has more than 30 years of experience in these areas.

Education for Sustainability

Education is an essential element in addressing the pressing environmental problems we are currently facing. The Education for Sustainability programs at Griffith University provide students with the knowledge and skills to be effective environmental educators. This program is designed for graduates from any discipline who wish to obtain specialist environmental education training. The Masters with Honours and Masters Advanced with Honours programs provide students with the opportunity to develop capacities for independent research by pursuing a research topic under supervision.