Water and Wastewater Processes MSc
Cranfield University, United Kingdom
Water and Wastewater Processes MSc
Cranfield University
Environmental Sciences / Water Engineering
Program Overview: Water and Wastewater Processes MSc
The Water and Wastewater Processes MSc at Cranfield University is a truly interdisciplinary program designed to equip you with the skills to become the innovators, specialists, and knowledge integrators of tomorrow who will design, lead, and deliver transformative solutions in the water sector. In a world where pressures on water resources present immediate and long-term challenges, this program prepares you to respond to climate change, water scarcity, and the transition to sustainable water services.
This MSc offers two study pathways that allow you to tailor your studies to your needs and career prospects. The Engineering route is suited for those pursuing engineering positions in the water industry, while the Environmental Science route is ideal for those wanting to protect public health, provide vital infrastructure, and improve the health of rivers, lakes, groundwaters, and coastal areas.
Throughout the course, you will cover theory, application, and practice while working in dedicated water research facilities, including on-campus sewage treatment works and pilot-scale testing halls. The program is supported by organisations from across the water sector, including water utilities, consultancies, regulators, and NGOs, who provide guest lectures, field trips, and thesis project sponsorship.
Key Program Highlights
- CIWEM-accredited MSc with two specialist study routes: Engineering and Environmental Science
- Access to dedicated water laboratories, on-campus sewage treatment works, and pilot-scale testing facilities
- Real-world thesis projects often sponsored by water utility companies and sector stakeholders
- Over 40 years of high-impact water research and strong industry connections with organisations like Scottish Water, WaterAid, and the Environment Agency
Curriculum and Modules
The taught component comprises five core modules, two route-specific modules, and one elective module. Students then complete a group project and an individual research project. The first semester covers foundational knowledge common to both routes, after which you specialise through your chosen pathway.
Water Sector Structure and Innovation
Core ModuleExplores how the water sector is structured, what drives change, and the development and adoption of new technologies in water and wastewater management.
Fundamental Principles of Treatment Processes
Core ModuleCovers the fundamental principles that underpin water and wastewater treatment processes, including chemical, physical, biological, and engineering principles.
Established Treatment Processes and Flowsheets
Core ModuleExamines the context, design, and operation of established treatment processes and flowsheets used in water and wastewater treatment systems.
Hydraulics and Pumping Principles (Engineering Route)
Route ModuleProvides advanced understanding of hydraulic principles and pumping systems essential for engineering roles in the water industry. Available on the Engineering route.
Risk Asset Management (Engineering Route)
Route ModuleCovers risk assessment and asset management strategies for water and wastewater infrastructure. Available on the Engineering route.
Environmental Water Quality (Environmental Science Route)
Route ModuleCritically assesses the water environment and its quality, monitoring approaches, and the influence of treated wastewater on environmental water quality. Available on the Environmental Science route.
Elective Modules
Admission Requirements
Cranfield University welcomes candidates from a variety of educational backgrounds for this program, including physics, chemistry, biology, chemical and civil engineering, geography, environmental science, maths, earth sciences, and development studies. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, your single point of contact for guidance and support throughout the admissions process.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationA first or second class UK Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant science, engineering, or related discipline
- Relevant DisciplinesPhysics, chemistry, biology, chemical/civil engineering, geography, environmental science, maths, earth sciences, or development studies
- Professional ExperienceOther relevant qualifications together with significant industrial experience may also be considered
- Study ModeAvailable as full-time (1 year) or part-time (modular structure for working professionals)
- AccreditationThis MSc is accredited by the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM)
English Language Requirements
- IELTS Academic6.5 overall with minimum 5.5 in all skill components
- TOEFL iBT92 total (for tests taken prior to January 2026); contact Uni4Edu for updated score requirements
- Other TestsPTE Academic and other approved English tests accepted; contact Uni4Edu for full list of accepted tests
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Cranfield University offers several funding opportunities specifically for students on the Water and Wastewater Processes MSc, in addition to university-wide scholarships. Contact Uni4Edu for guidance on eligibility and application procedures for these awards.
Mister Gees Foundation Scholarship
GBP 5,000Available to a UK or international student studying full-time on the Water and Wastewater Processes MSc (Environmental Science route). The foundation supports young people studying water conservation and sustainable water management.
Anglian Water Bursary
Full fees plus GBP 20,000 annually for living costsOffered through the Cranfield Water Science Institute in partnership with Anglian Water for a UK/EU student to study the MSc over two years. Covers full tuition fees and provides annual living cost support.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme
Fully funded (varies)Students from developing Commonwealth countries who would not otherwise be able to study in the UK can apply for these scholarships for masters study, jointly supported by Cranfield University and the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Water and Wastewater Processes MSc are in high demand both in the UK and globally. The program prepares you for roles across the private and public sectors, from water utilities and engineering consultancies to environmental regulators and NGOs. Cranfield provides career coaching, CV development, interview practice, and access to recruiting employers through careers fairs.
Typical Graduate Roles
Where Graduates Work
Rankings and Recognition
Cranfield University is an exclusively postgraduate institution recognised globally for its specialist expertise in technology, engineering, and applied sciences. As a postgraduate-only university, Cranfield does not appear in traditional undergraduate-focused league tables but performs strongly in subject-specific and employer-focused rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering and Technology | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 200 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 140 |
| Engineering - Mechanical, Aeronautical & Manufacturing | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #55 |
| Research Excellence | Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021 | 88% World-leading or Internationally Excellent |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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