Master in Environmental Law

Applications for the Oct 2027 intake close on Oct 31, 2026. Tuition fees are 1,527 USD per year.

The Master in Environmental Law is a one-year program at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, open to students with a Bachelor's degree. It provides a comprehensive understanding of environmental law, focusing on sustainability, climate change, and conservation.

The curriculum covers compulsory courses like Environmental Law and Sustainability I and II, as well as elective courses such as Climate Change and Energy Law, International Environmental Law, and Water Law. Students will develop research skills through core courses, which include an additional research component.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Environmental Lawyers, Sustainability Specialists, Climate Change Experts, or Conservation Officers, working in industries like government, non-profit, or private sectors. They may find employment in organizations, law firms, or regulatory bodies, applying their knowledge of environmental law to protect the planet.

The University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, known as Wits, is a prominent research-intensive university founded in 1922 and located in one of Africa’s most vibrant cities. With a student body exceeding 42,000 and a diverse international community, Wits offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and business. Its urban campus provides access to cultural institutions, industry partners, and public sector organizations for experiential learning.

Wits is recognized for rigorous research and strong professional programs, offering 322 distinct programs that combine theoretical depth with practical training. The university’s academic environment supports innovation through research centers, clinical training partnerships, and industry collaborations that help students build professional networks. International students benefit from dedicated support services, orientation programs, and resources to assist with visas, accommodations, and academic advising, helping them integrate into campus life and pursue career ambitions.

Campus life at Wits is dynamic, with active student societies, sporting opportunities, and cultural events that reflect Johannesburg’s diversity. Graduates join a broad alumni network and often find career pathways in South Africa and abroad. Prospective students should explore program-specific entry requirements, funding and scholarship options, and early engagement with faculty to tailor their study plans to research interests or professional objectives.