Environmental Science BSc
Study of how the natural world works and how human activity affects it - combining biology, chemistry, and earth science to solve environmental challenges.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Want a broad understanding of environmental issues
Enjoy science and geography
Are interested in climate change and sustainability
Like problem-solving
Want flexible career options
Popular Career Fields
Environmental Consultancy
Research & Academia
Government & Public Sector
Corporate Sustainability
Your Personality Might Be:
Scientifically curious
Research & Academia
Interdisciplinary thinker
Field-ready
What is it?
What Is an Environmental Science Degree?
Environmental Science explores the physical, chemical, and biological processes that shape our planet. You’ll learn how ecosystems function, how pollution and climate change affect the Earth, and how science can help protect the environment.
Why Study Environmental Science?
This degree is ideal if you enjoy science and want to apply it to real-world issues like climate change, conservation, and sustainability. It offers a balance of laboratory research, fieldwork, and data analysis.
Course Summary
Study of how the natural world works and how human activity affects it - combining biology, chemistry, and earth science to solve environmental challenges.
What you'll study
Most Environmental Science degrees cover:
Ecology and biodiversity
Earth systems and geology
Environmental chemistry and pollution control
Climate change and sustainability
Hydrology and soil science
Environmental data analysis and modelling
Environmental management and policy
Later in your course, you can often specialise, for example, in marine science, conservation, renewable energy, or environmental technology.
Skills You'll Gain
An Environmental Science degree helps you build a mix of scientific, analytical, and professional skills, including:
Environmental Monitoring – measuring air, water, soil, and ecological conditions in natural and built environments.
Scientific Fieldwork – collecting samples, conducting surveys, and using environmental instruments.
Data & Lab Analysis – analysing environmental samples using chemical, biological, and geospatial methods.
Climate & Ecosystem Understanding – interpreting environmental change, biodiversity, and sustainability challenges.
Environmental Problem-Solving – developing solutions to pollution, conservation, and resource-management issues.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Environmental Science graduates are employed across a wide range of industries, including:
Environmental consultancy and management
Conservation and sustainability
Climate change research and policy
Energy, water, and waste industries
Education, communication, and research
Work Experiences & Placements
Many universities offer:
Placements or sandwich years with environmental consultancies, government agencies, or conservation organisations.
Field courses both in the UK and overseas, providing experience in environmental monitoring and research.
These opportunities help you apply your scientific skills in real settings and explore different environmental career paths.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent typically including one or two Science subjects (such as Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geography, or Physics).
Personal Statement Tips
Show your enthusiasm for science, nature, and environmental protection.
Mention fieldwork, volunteering, or projects that demonstrate your curiosity about the planet.
Reflect on how you want to use science to tackle global challenges.
Include examples like research projects, teamwork, or analytical work.
What to do Next
Compare courses to find those focusing on areas you enjoy, such as climate, ecology, or sustainability.
Attend open days or virtual sessions to explore laboratories and field facilities.
Volunteer with environmental groups or citizen science projects.
Follow environmental research and climate news to stay informed about global issues.
Wider Reading
The Sixth Extinction by Elizabeth Kolbert – A powerful look at biodiversity loss and climate change.
How to Avoid a Climate Disaster by Bill Gates – Science and solutions for a sustainable future.
There Is No Planet B by Mike Berners-Lee – A practical guide to sustainability and environmental change.
Earth: An Intimate History by Richard Fortey – The story of our planet’s evolution through geology.