Green Infrastructure MSc
Year of entry: 2026
Course length: 12 Months Full-Time
This pioneering MSc is the first of its kind to integrate expertise from Geography with Landscape and Environmental Planning to deliver a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of Green Infrastructure. It uniquely bridges the gap between theory, practice, and evaluation, providing a critical foundation for understanding how nature-based solutions can address the social, environmental, and economic challenges facing urban and rural areas alike.
Taught by nationally and internationally recognised experts in the field, the course offers a rigorous academic framework alongside practical insights into the planning, design, implementation, and governance of green infrastructure. You will explore why this is essential in the context of climate resilience, biodiversity enhancement, public health, and social equity - while also gaining the skills to critically assess and apply strategies in real-world contexts.
The course combines core theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning, drawing on case studies and live projects. Manchester and the North West of England provide an ideal setting for study: a dynamic urban region with a rich legacy of environmental innovation and a growing portfolio of green infrastructure initiatives. This makes the city a living laboratory where you can observe and engage with cutting-edge practice in action.
Whether you're looking to influence environmental policy, lead sustainable urban development projects, or contribute to academic research, this MSc will equip you with the tools to become a leader in the growing field of green infrastructure.
Top 10
We are ranked 2nd in the World for societal and environmental impact (THE Impact Rankings 2025) and a top 10 UK university for Geography (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025).
Interdisciplinary Advantage
Work across a range of interrelated disciplines, including planning, hydrology, urban forestry, community engagement, development and infrastructure provision, environmental/ecological management, and local/national government.
Field Experience
Take part in an international, residential field course, giving you the chance to apply your learning in real-world environments.
Hannah Ward
MSc Green Infrastructure student
“It has been great to meet like-minded people on the course. I particularly enjoyed doing a spatial ecology module, which involved learning to code using R which was a skill that was completely new to me.”
Professor James Rothwell
James Rothwell, Professor of Physical Geography at Manchester and Programme Director for MSc Green Infrastructure. “This exciting MSc brings together a blend of green infrastructure theory, policy and real-world practice. Students will engage with varied types of learning, including exposure to real-life case studies of green infrastructure through dedicated fieldwork."
