Master's Degree Science Full Time

Master of Catchment Science

at Griffith University · Brisbane, Queensland

CRICOS course code

099375F

CRICOS provider code

00233E

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

2 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$75,000 total

Per year

A$37,500/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

Griffith University's Master of Catchment Science focuses on the study and management of water catchments to balance ecological, social, and economic needs. Across two years of full-time study, students engage with hydrology, water policy, river and wetland ecology, and water quality assessment. Learning is built around coursework units that are each allocated a set number of credit points, totalling the full requirement for a master's degree under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

The programme structure combines lectures, practical lab and fieldwork, and may include project-based learning which simulates the real challenges faced by catchment professionals in Australia. There is strong engagement with government agencies, consulting firms, and research centres active in Queensland and other Australian states. Students also have the chance to get involved with industry-relevant projects, developing skills in catchment modelling, stakeholder consultation, and environmental data analysis.

Many master’s courses in Australia, including this one, offer a capstone project or research thesis option, giving students experience in investigating a significant water resource problem or management issue. This prepares graduates for both technical roles and future research opportunities. Flexible study options are available, but most students complete the programme in four semesters, covering advanced topics in monitoring, modelling, and the sustainable management of water systems.

The Master of Catchment Science suits people seeking careers in government, environmental consultancy, policy, or research linked to water management. It appeals to science graduates, engineers, and professionals with backgrounds in environmental or earth sciences. International students are subject to Griffith University’s English language requirements and may work up to 48 hours per fortnight while studying. On completion, graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to gain post-study work experience in Australia. Always check the latest course and visa details on the official Griffith and Australian Government websites.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

Water resource scientist or consultant
Catchment and river health manager
Environmental policy analyst
Water modelling specialist
Project officer in local, state, or federal government agencies
Research roles in universities, CSIRO, or Australian CRCs (Cooperative Research Centres)
Roles in environmental and engineering consultancies working on Australian and Asia-Pacific water projects

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Catchment Science at Griffith University?

It typically takes 2 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$75,000 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

Water resource scientist or consultantCatchment and river health managerEnvironmental policy analystWater modelling specialistProject officer in local, state, or federal government agenciesResearch roles in universities, CSIRO, or Australian CRCs (Cooperative Research Centres)Rol...

Apply View university