Environmental Management is the planning and implementation of actions geared to improve the quality of the human environment. The postgraduate programs in environmental management at the University of Queensland are multidisciplinary programs designed to enhance the skills and technical expertise of graduates working in all facets of the environmental arena. The programs aim to produce managers able to address the many issues in the highly complex and changing area of environmental management. At Masters Level the degree may be taken in a range of fields. Fields of study Conservation Biology Conservation biology is an integrative discipline that focuses on the problems of restoring and maintaining viable populations of animal and plant species, and natural and managed ecosystems. The program aims to provide core theoretical and practical training in conservation biology. Graduates with little tertiary training in conservation biology can access within the program courses that provide prerequisite knowledge. Conservation and Natural Resource Management Conservation and Natural Resource Management is a field of study addressing a world-wide demand for people with the understanding and skills to manage natural resources (land, water, forests, minerals, marine resources, and biodiversity), often in conjunction with the use of land for production enterprises. Environmental Management in Mining Extraction and processing of mineral and energy resources generates a range of environmental impacts that must be managed and minimized to meet global demand for these resources. Growing global population coupled with increases in urbanization and industrialization ensures an ongoing demand for skilled professionals in environmental management in mining. This field of study will introduce students to the unique environmental challenges presented by mining environments and strategies for managing these environmental impacts. Resource and Environmental Economics This field provides environmental managers with the theory and analytical tools needed to explore the economic dimensions of natural resources and the environment. It is designed for students with little or no background in economics who are prepared to rapidly acquire the necessary tools to undertake applied economic analysis of resource and environmental issues ranging from protected areas through productive rural landscapes to the urban and industrial environments. Sustainable Development This field is designed for students who wish to solve environmental problems. It emphasizes the importance of a healthy environment as the basis of sustainable jobs and industries. Students gain the skills and knowledge to work towards sustainable development. Courses explore strategies ranging from cleaner production for individual industries, and better environment design, to regional and national environmental policies and plans.