Department of Environmental Science

Welcome Message

Welcome to the Department of Environmental Science at the Royal University of Phnom Penh.

Founded in 2001, the Department of Environmental Science is the first and leading program of its kind in Cambodia. For over two decades, the department has played a pioneering role in advancing environmental education, research, and sustainable development in the country.

We are proud to offer a dynamic academic environment where students gain a strong foundation in environmental science, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, pollution control, and natural resource management. Our program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, preparing graduates to become skilled professionals and responsible leaders.

As part of our community, you will have opportunities to engage in research, fieldwork, and collaborative projects that address real-world environmental challenges. We encourage you to think critically, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to protecting our environment.

Welcome to a program with a proud history and a strong commitment to shaping a sustainable future.

“Knowledge for Nature, Innovation for Sustainability.”

About the Department

No photo description available.

An understanding of environmental science is increasingly important in a rapidly developing world. This is particularly true in Cambodia, where development often occurs without sufficient planning to ensure long-term sustainability, and where environmental laws are not consistently implemented or enforced. These challenges to environmental protection and conservation further underscore the critical importance of environmental science education.

The Department of Environmental Science (DES) at the Royal University of Phnom Penh is committed to addressing these issues. It aims to contribute to solving Cambodia’s environmental challenges by equipping future environmental managers with the necessary knowledge and skills. In addition, DES encourages its staff to engage in research, consultancy, and outreach activities that have direct and meaningful impacts on environmental management in Cambodia.

 

Students have graduated from the Department of Environmental Science, most of them subsequently finding employment in government or non-government agencies. Since graduating, many students have also received financial support to pursue postgraduate studies locally and internationally.

In addition to their teaching duties, faculty members from the Department of Environmental Science have completed substantial research projects, with both regional and international cooperation. The Department has also run training, short courses and workshops in environmental conservation to government agencies at provincial and national levels. These activities have helped build the Departments capacity and network, and have promoted the reputations of both the Department of Environmental Science and the Royal University of Phnom Penh.

 

The Department of Environmental Science at the Royal University of Phnom Penh was officially established in 2001 by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, with the aim of producing quality environmental scientists and activists at an undergraduate level. The undergraduate curriculum was developed by departmental staff with input from local and international experts, and especially from the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), Thailand, and Roskilde and quality University, Denmark, which helped the department offer workshops, consultative meetings, assurance for study materials. The Department has worked to strengthen the undergraduate program, undertaking significant curriculum and faculty development exercises. In addition, the department regularly organizes complementary activities such as field trips, science fairs, monthly seminars and internship programs, providing students with opportunities to gain practical knowledge and experience.

 

JOB PROSPECTS

 

Graduates have an excellent opportunity for employment in public, private, international and local NGOs, university teaching and research in the field of environment or other related subjects. Moreover, the graduates have also high potential to get further studies at post-graduate levels either locally or internationally.

 

Research focus

  • Water and Sanitation Sector: groundwater and surface water quality, water supply and sanitation, wastewater pollution and modeling

  • Air Pollution Sector: emission inventory, ambient air quality monitoring, emission factor development, source apportionment studies, air pollution modeling, indoor air pollution and human health

  • Solid Waste Sector: solid waste characterization, composting, promotion of 3Rs, solid waste treatment technology and management

Cross-cutting Thematic: co-benefit studies between environmental pollution and climate change, pay ecosystem and service, energy and environment, remote sensing and GIS and modeling for the environment, climate change adaptation and mitigations

 

Vision

To become a leading educational program in Cambodia for high-quality environmental research, contributing to policy development and practical solutions with both national and international recognition.

 

Mission

  • To provide high-quality training for human resources, equipping them with specialized knowledge and professional competencies in the environmental field.

  • To enhance the understanding of environmental systems, ecosystems, and the relationship between humans and the environment, while seeking sustainable and innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

 

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)

PEO 1: Analytical and Problem-Solving Excellence Graduates will creatively analyze and resolve environmental challenges by evaluating environmental data, conducting risk assessments, and implementing evidence-based strategies for sustainable management.

 

PEO 2: Communication and Lifelong Learning Graduates will demonstrate advanced communication and collaborative skills with diverse stakeholders, fostering an innovative mindset and a commitment to lifelong learningwithin the fields of environmental science and technology.

 

PEO 3: Leadership and Professional Research Graduates will lead and implement innovative research projects that contribute to the advancement of environmental science and drive continuous professional development and leadership in their careers.

 

Program Specification

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

Knowledge (Cognitive Domain)

  • PLO 1: Demonstrate a profound understanding of environmental systems, ecological principles, and the complex interactions between human activities and the natural environment.
  • PLO 2: Apply advanced theories and methodologies in environmental science to evaluate environmental data and conduct comprehensive risk assessments.

Skills (Psychomotor & Cognitive Domain)

  • PLO 3: Utilize modern technical tools and innovative technologies to monitor, analyze, and model environmental changes and impacts.
  • PLO 4: Design and execute high-quality research projects that provide evidence-based solutions to local and global environmental challenges.
  • PLO 5: Communicate environmental information, policies, and technical findings effectively to both specialist and non-specialist stakeholders through various media.
  • PLO 6: Employ critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills to manage environmental resources sustainably and adapt to emerging ecological issues.

Affective Domain

  • PLO 7: Demonstrate professional leadership and the ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams to achieve environmental goals.
  • PLO 8: Exhibit a strong commitment to professional ethics, social responsibility, and lifelong learning in the pursuit of environmental innovation and career development.

     

Course Description

English Language (Year 1 – 3) 

Most textbooks and research books in Cambodia are written in English or French, foreign language acquisition is essential for professors and students alike. The development of students' knowledge base and research skills across all disciplines at the Royal University of Phnom Penh is an outstanding goal of this foreign language program. 

FGKL02 - Khmer Culture and Civilization 

FGKL02 serves as a core general education requirement, providing students with a comprehensive lens through which to view and understand the foundational pillars of Khmer identity. Culture is not static; it is a living system that adapts across generations. This course bridges the past and the present, helping students contextualize modern Cambodian social norms, artistic traditions, and institutional values within their historical origins. 

FGMA01 – General Mathematics 

FGMA01 provides Foundation Year students with the essential mathematical tools and quantitative reasoning skills required for academic success across scientific and technical disciplines. This foundational course bridges high school mathematics with university-level application, focusing on algebraic structures, functions, calculus, and matrix operations. Students learn to translate real-world problems into mathematical models, develop deductive logical thinking, and master the computational techniques necessary for advanced scientific data processing, statistical analytics, and environmental modeling tracks. 

FGCH01 – General Chemistry 

FGCH01 introduces Foundation Year students to the core principles of general chemistry that govern the behavior of matter, chemical reactions, and molecular interactions. Designed as an essential gateway for scientific disciplines, this course covers atomic structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, gas laws, chemical equilibrium, and solution chemistry. Through integrated lectures and hands-on laboratory experiments, students build the quantitative and analytical skills required to understand chemical processes in natural and engineered environments. This course establishes the vital chemical baseline necessary for advanced studies in environmental pollution, water quality analysis, and ecotoxicology. 

FGPH01 – General Physics 

FGPH01 provides first-year students with a rigorous introduction to general physics, emphasizing how physical laws dictate the behavior of natural and engineered systems. Environmental science is fundamentally interconnected with physics; tracking a pollutant, managing a watershed, or analyzing solar radiation requires a firm grasp of mechanics, energy conservation, and fluid behavior. This course balances theoretical principles with practical applications to build strong quantitative problem-solving habits. 

FGPS01 – General Psychology 

FGPS01 introduces Foundation Year students to the scientific study of human behavior, cognition, and emotion. This introductory course explores the fundamental psychological principles that dictate how individuals perceive, learn, remember, and interact with their social and physical environments. Students will examine core topics including the biological bases of behavior, cognitive development, motivation, social psychology, and psychological resilience. By bridging individual mental processes with broader community dynamics, this course fosters critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills essential for personal development and professional collaboration across all academic disciplines. 

FEBI01 - Biology Laboratory 

FEBI01 is a practical, hands-on laboratory course designed to introduce Foundation Year students to the essential techniques, instruments, and safety protocols used in biological research. This course bridges classroom theory with empirical observation, allowing students to investigate the living world firsthand. Through structured weekly lab sessions, students master light microscopy, cell structure identification, biochemical testing, and standard specimen dissection. This course cultivates the observational accuracy, data-logging discipline, and analytical skills required for advanced laboratory and field tracks in ecology, environmental chemistry, and ecotoxicology. 

FGPP01 – Introduction to Philosophy 

FGPP01 introduces Foundation Year students to the fundamental questions, methods, and historic traditions of philosophical inquiry. This introductory course challenges students to move beyond passive learning and engage in deep critical reflection regarding the nature of reality (metaphysics), the boundaries of human knowledge (epistemology), and the foundations of right action (ethics). By studying and debating classical Eastern and Western philosophical texts, students develop the logical reasoning, intellectual humility, and analytical writing skills required to dissect complex contemporary issues and form well-reasoned personal perspectives across all academic and scientific disciplines. 

FGMA02 - Statistics 

FGMA02 provides first-year students with a comprehensive introduction to statistical science, balancing mathematical calculations with practical interpretation. Scientific discovery and environmental management rely entirely on data integrity; statistics provides the tools to determine whether an observed trend—such as a drop in water contamination or an increase in student test scores—is a genuine phenomenon or merely a result of random chance. 

 FGCS02 - Computer Applications 

Computer Applications equips first-year students with the essential digital skills and software competencies required to organize, analyze, and present scientific data. In the field of environmental science, professionals must routinely process field logs, format technical reports, and visualize spatial data. This practical, lab-based course focuses on mastering advanced functionalities within spreadsheet software, professional document processing, and impactful presentation design. Students will learn to automate data calculations, clean, messy environmental monitoring logs, and design publication-ready charts, establishing the technical literacy baseline needed for advanced statistics, spatial analytics (GIS), and independent research tracks. 

FGGE02 - Demography 

FGGE02 introduces Foundation Year students to the scientific study of human populations, focusing on the dynamic processes that drive demographic change: fertility, mortality, and migration. Understanding population trends is essential for resource allocation, urban planning, and sustainable development. This course explores historical and contemporary population transformations, demographic transition models, and spatial distribution patterns. Students build the quantitative skills needed to calculate vital demographic indicators and analyze how population growth intersects with environmental degradation, economic mobility, and public policy, providing a critical global and national lens for all academic disciplines. 

FECH05 – Basic Chemistry for Environment and Lab  

FECH05 is a practical, lab-based course designed to introduce first-year students to the foundational laboratory techniques, analytical instruments, and rigorous chemical safety protocols essential for scientific research. This course brings classroom concepts to life through hands-on experimentation, focusing on precision measurements, solution preparation, chemical reactions, volumetric titrations, 

 ENV2101 - Basic Climate Change 

This course, Foundations of Climate Change Science, is designed to provide students with an understanding of climate change and its impact on ecological systems. The course offers an overview of key topics, including the sources and types of greenhouse gases, global warming, causes of climate change, assessment of climate change driven by human activities, adaptation strategies, and the vulnerability of ecosystems. In addition, the course aims to develop students’ critical thinking and analytical skills in examining climate-related issues at local, national, and global levels. By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to explain the scientific basis of climate change, evaluate its environmental and socio-economic impacts, and discuss practical approaches for mitigation and adaptation in response to climate challenges. 

ENV2102 - Statistics for Environmental Science 

In this course, students learn how to collect, summarize and interpret data, in numerical and figure form, and to draw conclusions from this data. The ability to draw conclusions from data is essential to the process of many professions and organizations. For example, government officials use conclusions drawn from the latest data on unemployment and inflation to make policy decisions. Production supervisors use manufacturing data to evaluate, control, and improve product quality. Politicians rely on data from public opinion polls to formulate legislation and to devise campaigns. This course continues over two semesters, and provides a conclusive study of the concepts, views and terminologies associated with statistics, and teaches students to read and interpret data, thus arming them with the ability to collect and use data effectively. 

ENV2103 - Introduction to Environmental Science 

The course Fundamentals of Environmental Science is designed to provide students with essential knowledge and understanding of key environmental issues at both national and global levels. It introduces major environmental challenges, their causes, and existing solutions, enabling students to develop awareness of how human activities interact with natural systems. The course is offered over one semester (Year 2, Semester 1) and focuses on building a strong foundation in environmental concepts and problem-solving approaches. The course combines theoretical learning with practical engagement through lectures, student presentations, group discussions, and selected case studies that illustrate real-world environmental situations. In addition, students are assigned research tasks to help them explore diverse environmental issues occurring both globally and within their own country. These activities aim to strengthen students’ analytical, research, and communication skills, while enhancing their ability to understand and address environmental problems effectively. 

ENV2104 - Energy Technology and Environment 

The increasing demand for energy, particularly for economic development, is remarkable in today's world. Energy emissions have polluted our environment, producing air pollution, creating acid rain, depleting the ozone layer and contributing to climate change. This course arms students with an understanding of the world's energy demands, briefs them on the conventional non-renewable and renewable energy sources that fill the demand, and introduces them to some technological and regulatory interventions devised to slow down the global rate of energy consumption. 

 ENV2105 - Biodiversity and Ecosystem 

The course Biodiversity and Ecosystems is structured into two main parts to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding. Part I introduces students to the concept of biodiversity, including its meaning, importance, and the historical evolution of life on Earth. Through this section, students will explore how living organisms have changed and diversified over time, as well as the significance of biodiversity in maintaining the balance of life on our planet. 

Part II focuses on ecosystems and conservation. In this section, students will study the structure and functions of ecosystems, the interactions between living organisms and their environment, and the essential role ecosystems play in supporting life. Students will also examine the principles and practices of conservation, including the protection and sustainable management of natural resources and biodiversity. 

In addition to these two core sections, the course will highlight specific topics related to biodiversity and conservation in Cambodia. This will help students gain a clearer understanding of the country’s environmental conditions, natural resources, and conservation challenges. By connecting global concepts with the Cambodian context, the course aims to strengthen students’ awareness, deepen their appreciation of nature, and inspire a stronger commitment to protecting biodiversity and ecosystems in Cambodia for future generations. 

ENV2201 - Solid Waste Management 

The increasing amount and complexity of solid waste produced in recent decades presents a significant threat to human health and environmental quality. Developing countries, and Cambodia in particular, have not successfully addressed this problem. This course provides students with detailed knowledge of how to safely and appropriately manage solid waste. Topics covered include solid waste characteristics and composition, sources and generation rate, collecting and cleaning services, transportation, and waste disposal including landfill design. Related laws and regulations are also discussed, with comparative focus between the Cambodian and Malaysian contexts. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have a comprehensive knowledge of solid waste and of appropriate technologies to minimize and treat it. 

ENV2202 - Environment and Sustainable Development 

This course introduces students to the context of sustainable development and the relationship between project development and environmental change. Students gain an understanding of international conventions on environmental protection and sustainable development, as well as key policies related to the conservation and management of natural resources. Through this course, students learn about Cambodia’s national context in managing sustainable development policies and develop an understanding of the complex interactions between the environment and sustainable development. The course also encourages students to apply critical thinking skills, which are essential for their future professional careers. 

In addition, the course helps students examine contemporary environmental challenges at both the global and national levels, including climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and the unsustainable use of natural resources. It promotes awareness of the importance of balancing economic growth, social well-being, and environmental protection in order to achieve long-term sustainability. Students are also encouraged to analyze real-world case studies, evaluate environmental policies and development strategies, and propose practical solutions to emerging environmental issues. By the end of the course, students are expected to strengthen their analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities, enabling them to contribute effectively to environmental management and sustainable development initiatives in Cambodia and beyond. 

ENV2203 - Environmental Chemistry and Lab 

A basic knowledge of chemistry and chemical processes is critical for an in-depth understanding of environmental science. This course provides students with adequate chemistry knowledge to prepare them for further courses in this degree, and for practice in 

the field. The course runs over two semesters, with the first semester covering introductory chemistry, biogeochemical cycles, chemistry and the destruction of the ozone layer, air pollution, acid rain and climate change. Topics covered in the second semester include the chemistry of natural water, groundwater and soils, organic pollutants, and inorganic pollutants. In addition, students discuss the linkages between chemical substances within and between environmental compartments, as well as their functions and impacts. The course will include lab practicals to add to studentsí understanding of the chemical processes described. 

ENV2204 - Fundamental of Air Pollution 

This course introduces Year 2 students to the core scientific principles of atmospheric pollution. Students explore the structure and chemistry of the atmosphere, the various types of air pollutants, and their diverse industrial, natural, and mobile sources. The curriculum examines the widespread impacts of pollution on public health and ecosystems while introducing basic management tools like emission inventories. Finally, students investigate how meteorology and dispersion—including wind patterns and atmospheric stability—physically transport and dilute contaminants across landscapes. This foundational course integrates local policy applications, emphasizing national legislative frameworks alongside international health benchmarks. 

ENV2205 - Urban Infrastructure and Services 

The high cost of rapid urbanization often leads to a lack of infrastructure and basic services within urban environments in developing countries. This in turn undermines the quality of life of urban populations. This course allows students to examine basic urban infrastructure and services, including water supply and sanitation, waste collection, transportation and power supply, and the problems that can arise from their absence. Students analyze the various environmental, economic, social and political dimensions of urban infrastructure provision, and explore the issues of urban infrastructure management, including strategies for implementation, participation, and policy development to improve infrastructure and services in urban poor communities. 

ENV3101 - Environmental Quality Management 

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of environmental quality management systems. It builds on studentsí knowledge of environmental problems faced around the world, with a particular focus on the problems faced by developing countries, and introduces various environmental managements systems which have been developed to overcome these problems. Students explore environmental quality management concepts, and think critically about their potential impacts. They are also urged to share their knowledge with their communities, raising awareness of potential solutions to environmental problems within Cambodian society. 

ENV3102 - Environmental Pollution & Public Health 

The course is designed to provide students with fundamental and comprehensive knowledge of environmental issues, including the sources, types, and impacts of pollution on human health and the environment. It emphasizes the relationship between environmental quality and public health, highlighting how environmental hazards contribute to disease and health risks within communities. The course will deliver over one semester-Year 3, Semester 1- and combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, covering key topics such as water sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and solid waste pollution, pesticides, environmental risk factors, and the health effects of exposure to pollutants, as well as basic concepts of environmental protection and prevention strategies. 

Teaching and learning are student-centered and interactive, involving lectures, student presentations, group discussions, and real-life case studies to help connect theory with practice. By the end of the course, students are expected to understand environmental pollution issues and their public health impacts, and to propose appropriate solutions and preventive measures. 

ENV3103 - Fundamental of GIS and Lab 

A geographic information system (GIS) is a computer-based system that allows the study of natural and man-made phenomena with an explicit bearing in space. GIS enables users to collect, store, manage, analyze, and visualize spatial data to better understand patterns, relationships, and real-world problems for informed decision-making. GIS is widely recognized as a powerful decision-support tool for monitoring, planning, and management used in various fields of both natural and social sciences. Users can employ the tool to do geovisualization, geodatabase management, and geoprocessing on their data, which can help them better understand spatial patterns and relations when attempting to solve problems. The overall aim of this course is to provide the fundamental grounding in theory and common application of GIS visualization and analysis techniques. This includes giving participants an appreciation of the theoretical basis of some of the most commonly used GIS functions and practical skills in their application.  

ENV3104 - Drinking Water Quality Management 

Water is vital for all life on earth. However, only a small proportion of the worldís water is useable in its natural state, mainly in the form of surface water, soil moisture, exploitable ground water and atmospheric vapor. The management and conservation of water for sustainable use is, therefore, crucial. This course introduces students to surface and ground water resources, the systems used to exploit them, and the hydrological cycle. 

Students then discuss water quality issues including water pollution, before exploring water quality management methods, treatment technologies, the policy affecting water quality management, and ways to assess and monitor the effectiveness of management projects. Finally, students analyze the application of water resource management techniques in a case study of the Mekong Basin. After successful completion of the course, students will understand the concepts of water quality management and water treatment technologies, enabling them to work for any relevant project. 

ENV3105 - Air Quality Management and Monitoring 

This course introduces Year 3 students to the core fundamentals of atmospheric pollution management and the essential techniques of air quality monitoring. Combining theoretical principles with immersive, hands-on practice, students gain direct experience in designing sampling plans, operating monitoring equipment, and utilizing air quality modeling tools to simulate pollutant dispersion. The curriculum prepares future environmental specialists to analyze emissions and develop data-driven management strategies for urban and industrial environments. 

 ENV3106 - Environmental Economic 

This course introduces students to the basic concepts of environmental economics, which is used to explain environmental problems and to find their solutions. Students learn about externalities, open-access resources and public goods; and explore why pollution, destruction of natural resources, and free riding of environmental resources are widespread problems. Students are then introduced to economic approaches to solving environmental problems, including internalizing externalities, enshrining property rights, and infusing private goods characteristics. Students discuss the role of environmental economics in policy formation, focusing on calls for less output production, less reliance on natural resources as new materials, less waste generation in production and promotion of recycling. It is shown that economics can act as a powerful instrument for environmental protection, when economic incentives and disincentives are appropriately utilized. Throughout the course, students come to understand that economic policy instruments need to be complemented with environmental regulation and environmental education, which are collectively denoted as environmental management measures (EMM). After studying EMM, students can apply its main features in their own environments, and, by educating the community, further benefits the environment. 

 ENV3201 - Principle of Wastewater Treatment 

Rapid urbanization and industrialization have created a marked drop in environmental quality. Water pollution is a major aspect of environmental degradation. This course provides students with an overall view of the causes and characteristics of wastewater, the effects of water pollution, and possible solutions to wastewater problems. Students are introduced to both management and engineering aspects of this problem, gaining a broad understanding of wastewater pollution control and treatment processes. By the end of this course, students are familiar with wastewater pollution control methods and are able to apply their knowledge to real-life case studies and examples. 

 ENV3202 - Applied GIS and Remote Sensing 

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing are core tools for understanding and managing environmental systems by enabling the collection, visualization, analysis, and interpretation of spatial and satellite-based data over large areas. GIS supports applications such as land-use mapping, natural resource assessment, pollution analysis, hydrological modeling, environmental planning, and decision-making. Remote sensing provides timely Earth observation through satellite imagery for monitoring forests, water resources, agriculture, climate change, and natural hazards. Together, these technologies deliver accurate, repeatable, and cost-effective methods for assessing environmental change, ecosystem condition, and supporting sustainable resource management. They are critical to modern environmental research, policy development, and professional practice. 

Building on these foundations, this course introduces the core concepts and practical applications of GIS and remote sensing while developing hands-on skills across an environmental geospatial workflow. Students will learn spatial data management, coordinate system handling, geoprocessing and spatial analysis (including spatial interpolation), and map production, as well as satellite image processing techniques such as radiometric, atmospheric, and geometric correction, image enhancement, composition, and classification. Through integrated, application-based exercises, learners will develop the competencies required for careers in environmental assessment, conservation, planning, and disaster management. 

ENV3203 - Soil Erosion and Environment 

Soil Erosion and the Environment is a course that explores the major issues related to soil erosion and its significant impacts on the environment. This course discusses the causes, processes, and consequences of soil erosion, as well as strategies for its prevention and mitigation. Key topics covered in this course may include: Causes of soil erosion: understanding both natural and human-induced factors that contribute to land degradation, such as deforestation, overgrazing, and intensive agriculture. Erosion processes: examining the different mechanisms of soil erosion, including water erosion (for example, runoff and rill or gully erosion) and wind erosion. Environmental impacts: analyzing the harmful effects of soil erosion on ecosystems, water quality, biodiversity, and agricultural productivity. Prevention and mitigation strategies: discussing practical measures to control and reduce soil erosion, such as sustainable land management practices, erosion control structures, reforestation, and methods to improve soil strength through stabilization. In addition, the course helps students understand the relationship between soil conservation and long-term environmental sustainability. It emphasizes the importance of protecting soil as a vital natural resource that supports food production, water regulation, and ecosystem stability. Students will also learn how climate change, land-use change, and unsustainable development can accelerate erosion risks, and how scientific and engineering approaches can be applied to reduce these impacts. By the end of the course, learners are expected to gain both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of soil erosion problems and suitable solutions for environmental protection and sustainable land use. 

ENV3204 - Research Methodology and Practices 

The course is designed to provide students with a clear understanding of different types of research and the processes involved in conducting scientific studies. It introduces key concepts such as research design, data collection methods, data analysis, and interpretation of findings, enabling students to develop a systematic approach to research. The course is delivered over one semester (Year 3, Semester 2) and aims to build students’ foundational knowledge and skills in conducting academic and practical research. 

Teaching and learning combine theoretical instruction with practical activities, including lectures, student presentations, group discussions, and selected case studies to reinforce understanding. In addition, students are assigned research projects that allow them to apply the knowledge gained in class to real-world situations. These assignments help students develop essential skills in critical thinking, data analysis, academic writing, and effective presentation, while providing hands-on experience in conducting research. 

ENV3205 - Environmental Impact Assessment 

The tensions between economic development and environmental protection have been debated for several decades. Environmental Impact Assessments provide a system for understanding the context of proposed development projects, and generating relevant recommendations for environmental planning and management before approval for development is granted. This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), the EIA process and the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders. Students also learn practical environmental quality standard assessment methodologies, environmental monitoring and analysis standards, and are guided through the process of researching, preparing and presenting an EIA. 

ENV4101 - Sampling Design for Environmental Research and Data Analysis 

This senior-level capstone course prepares Year 4 students to transition from academic learning to professional environmental research. ENV4101 covers the critical methodologies required to design, execute, and analyze scientifically robust field sampling programs for water, air, and soil quality monitoring. Students learn how to minimize field bias and errors using probabilistic sampling strategies, manage data quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), and apply advanced statistical analysis software to interpret real-world datasets. The curriculum bridges field sciences with quantitative analytics, equipping graduates with the definitive skills needed for thesis execution and professional environmental consultancy. 

 ENV4102 - Waste Economy 

Not all waste is worthless, although, in many cases, its value is not recovered. This course introduces students to the concept of a waste economy, and its underlying principles. Students are acquainted with formal integrated solid waste management strategies, before exploring the importance of the informal sector in waste management, especially the roles of women and children. The course concludes with an investigation of decentralized community-based waste management systems, and their potential problems and benefits. 

ENV4103 - Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation 

This senior-level course equips Year 4 students with the strategic, technical, and policy tools required to address the dual challenges of global climate change. ENV4103 explores the scientific drivers of anthropogenic climate disruption alongside its localized impacts on water resources, agriculture, and urban ecosystems. Moving beyond problem identification, the curriculum focuses on actionable solutions: evaluating mitigation strategies to lower greenhouse gas emissions—such as renewable energy transitions and sustainable urban transport solutions—while designing robust adaptation frameworks to build community and ecosystem resilience. This course prepares future environmental professionals to draft climate action plans, navigate international policy agreements, and lead sustainable development initiatives. 

ENV4104 - Project Management, Planning and Implementation 

Project management and planning are crucial for the successful implementation of development projects. This course teaches students the fundamental concepts of project management processes, from planning to implementation. Students explore the process of project planning, scheduling, implementation, and monitoring, with a focus on implementing environmental impact assessments. Students also research case studies of successful project planning, management and implementation, taken from several national and environmental contexts. By deconstructing the success of these projects, students add to their knowledge and skills in project management, building their capacity to manage environmental projects themselves.  

ENV4105 - Thesis/Research Proposal Development 

This course prepares students to successfully develop a thesis or research proposal, to be implemented in the following semester. Students familiarize themselves with the required formats of research proposals and research reports, before being introduced to the necessary elements of a research proposal, including problem formulations, stated goals and objectives, literature review, research methods, scheduling and budgeting of research, data processing, analysis and report writing. This course is offered in parallel with the course Problem Based Learning, and studentsí final proposals will be a synergistic result of both courses, preparing them for the research report or thesis they undertake as part of their final semester. 

ENV4106 - Water Resource Systems and Management 

As world populations grow and develop, the demand for water increases. The sustainable management of water as a resource is therefore of the utmost importance. This course introduces trains students in the appropriate management of this essential resource. As part of this, students discuss central concepts in water resource planning and policy, including water demand analyses, environmental and socio-economic analyses and optimization techniques, modeling concepts, approaches and applications, water resource project planning issues, and policy and legal frameworks for water resource management. Students also discuss the potential issues of water resource management arising in the future. After successful completion of the course, students will understand the fundamental concepts underpinning water resource systems and their management, in preparation for employment in relevant projects. 

ENV4201 - Environmental Policy and Regulation 

Addressing environmental problems requires good planning and management, with strong policy and regulatory systems. This course introduces students to environmental policies and regulations, focusing on the need to tailor policy programs to the socio-economic and environmental conditions of particular regions or nations. Students explore different types of environmental management, environmental policy characteristics and instruments, and environmental laws and regulations around the world, with a specific focus on Cambodian environmental policy and law. International laws and conventions are also briefly discussed. Upon completion of this course, students should be comfortable in their knowledge of environmental policy in Cambodia and around the world, allowing them to work with matters of environmental policy in their future careers. 

ENV4202 - Environmental Safeguard 

This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, processes, and practical applications of environmental and social safeguard measures in development projects. It focuses on how to identify, assess, and manage environmental and social risks and impacts associated with infrastructure and development initiatives and environmental and social instruments required by the project .The course introduces key safeguard frameworks, including environmental and social screening, Environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA), risk mitigation strategies, stakeholder engagement, and monitoring and compliance mechanisms. It is delivered over one semester (Year 4, Semester 2) and aims to prepare students to apply safeguard principles in real project contexts. 

ENV4203 / ENV4204 - Group Research / Thesis 

To fulfill the requirements of the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science degree, students are required to conduct original research during their final semester. The research program or thesis allows students to build their research skills and experience, further preparing them for the job market. The majority of students undertake small group research, valued at 9 credits, and complete two additional courses, to the value of six credits. Outstanding students are invited to write an individual thesis, valued at 15 credits. 

Admission

Prospective students can enter the program through two distinct pathways:

🎓 Scholarship

  • Overview: Government-sponsored scholarship awarded to top-performing students with a strong foundational background in Biology and Chemistry.

  • Selection: Based on the national high-school diploma exam (Bac II) results .and selection determined by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport.

  • Number: 30 Students per academic year

💼 Fee-Paying

  • Overview: Self-funded students for the qualified applicants.

  • Requirements: Admission is subject to passing our Departmental entrance examination, which features Environmental-Chemistry as a core subject.

  • Tuition Fee: $500/Year.

  • Number: 50 Students

Contact Details

Address

Room 112A, First floor, Main Building A

Phone

Phone not available.

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