Environmental Science

Environmental Science is a broad subject area, incorporating aspects of both physical geography and human geography. Here’s our pick of some of the best courses in a rapidly growing subject choice

---

What is Environmental Science?

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary subject, and will draw on different fields to develop your understanding of the processes that shape our earth and environment. Core elements involve studying atmospheric sciences, ecology, environmental chemistry and geosciences. It pulls together elements of physical geography and human geography (which we’ve also put together degree recommendations for).

What specialisms can I choose with Environmental Science?

There are many sub-disciplines in Environmental Science. Atmospheric sciences will build your understanding of the chemistry and physics of our atmosphere and the impact changes can have on ecosystems around the world. Meteorology focuses on how our atmosphere can cause changes in weather conditions, and in turn shape ecosystems and the environment. Ecology focuses on the interactions between organisms and the environment, connecting social sciences and biology. Environmental chemistry centres around the impact humans have on the environment and how contamination happens; its consequences and prevention approaches. Lastly, geoscience is a broad field that focuses on the natural processes that have shaped the physical earth.

How is Environmental Science studied?

Environmental Science pulls together many different academic approaches to studying the environment. Remote sensing and Geographic Information Science will be a key feature, as will fieldwork and laboratory work.

Environmental Science develops a wide range of transferable skills that are useful in the job market. Many universities register a high employment rate for environmental science – a field that is rapidly growing.

---

Geographical’s pick of the courses

The courses below are listed in order of entry requirements, highest to lowest:

The University of Edinburgh – BSc Ecological and Environmental Sciences (4 years)

The facts:

• In the world’s top 40 and the UK’s top 10 universities for natural sciences, environmental sciences, earth and marine sciences (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024)
• 85 per cent of students in work or doing further study after completing BSc Ecological and Environmental Sciences at The University of Edinburgh (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• Edinburgh is ranked the 6th best student city in Europe and 13th in the world (QS Best Student Cities, 2025)

The breakdown:

Ecological sciences study how organisms interact with each other and their physical, chemical and biological environments. Environmental science is an integrated science. We apply biological, chemical and physical sciences to understand the natural environment and how it is changing. Understanding both is important for managing changing environments for a more sustainable future.

In Year 1 we will introduce you to fundamental aspects of ecology. This involves both theoretical and practical studies. You will explore the diversity of living organisms and the evolutionary forces that created them. In Year 2 you will learn how aspects of nature are connected. We will give you insights into the diversity, distribution and abundance of life on planet Earth.

You will start Year 3 with a week-long summer field course. Through fieldwork, you will learn different measurement and evaluation techniques. Your coursework will focus on specialised aspects of your degree, learning at the cutting edge of different ecological and environmental disciplines.

In Year 4, your main focus will be on your dissertation. This is an independent, original piece of research in your chosen specialist field. Recent honours dissertation titles have included: Does cacao drive deforestation in Amazonian Peru?, Carbon payback times of wind farms on the Isle of Lewis, A critical review of land reform polices in devolved Scotland.

The place:

The University of Edinburgh is at the heart of the city of Edinburgh. Scotland’s inspiring capital will be the backdrop to your studies and is regularly voted as one of the most desirable places to live in the world. The University of Edinburgh is also home to one of the largest and most successful groupings of geographers and geoscientists in the UK.

Entry:

SQA Highers: ABBB

A Level: AAA–ABB

IB: 34

Open days: To find more information about upcoming Open Days at The University of Edinburgh, click here.

---

London School of Economics – Environment and Sustainable Development BSc (3 years)

The facts:

• 80 per cent of students were satisfied with the quality of the Environment and Development BSc course at LSE (National Student Survey)
• 91 per cent of students go on to work and study (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• 75 per cent of students find their current work meaningful (Graduate Outcomes Survey)

The breakdown:

Unlike many environmental courses, LSE focus on the subject of environment and sustainable development from a social sciences perspective, rather than a natural science perspective. You will explore the nature, drivers and politics of sustainable and unsustainable development, building critical understanding of environmental change and the relation with human wellbeing and development.

In your first year, you will take two courses which deal with the natural environment and with global issues relating to environmental change and sustainable development, and a third course on contemporary geographical issues. You can then choose an additional course from within the department, or an approved option from another subject.

In your second year, you take an international development course, an environment course and an environmental economics course. You will also take another course from an approved list of geography and environment and outside options.

In your third year you can choose a broad range of geography and environmental options. Like other environmental science courses you’ll completea dissertation on a subject of your choice.

The place:

The environmental science course is based at LSE’s central London campus. Many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised to give a localised community feel. The broader city is vibrant, needless to say. It’s also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students.

Entry:

A Level: AAB

Open days: For more information on open days click here

---

Exeter University – Environmental Science BSc (3 years)

The facts:

• 79 per cent of students were satisfied with the quality of the Environmental Science BSc course at Exeter University (National Students Survey)
• Average earnings of £24,000 15 months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• 80 per cent of graduates go on to work and or study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• 76 go on to highly skilled work 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• Exeter ranks 7^th in the UK for Geography and Environmental Science (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide)

The breakdown:

Exeter’s Environmental Science BSc degree will give you the skills you need to address the world’s greatest challenges in climate change, such as biodiversity, sustainability and environmental decision-making.

Your first year will provide you with scientific grounding in themes of integrated environmental science. Core modules in subjects from earth systems, to environmental data will prepare you for research. Optional modules include genetics, ecology and conservation. On the more geographical side, there’s the ‘Geography of Cornwall’ course, or ‘Society, Environment and Energy’.

Year two brings more flexibility to explore your interests. Core modules focus on analytical and research skills in environmental science, while optional modules allow you to hone in on the subjects that you are interested in.

There’s an option to do a placement year, studying abroad or a professional placement. This can be a vital time to broaden your horizons and build key employability skills.

In your final year, you will gain specialist training in the skills necessary to acquire jobs in the environmental sector. You will have an opportunity to specialise in your preferred subjects through an independent research dissertation and a choice of optional modules. Another highlight is the residential field course, where you will be immersed in a new environment and taught how to understand its environmental and cultural challenges from multiple geographical perspectives.

The place:

Exeter’s Environmental Science course is based at the Penryn campus in Falmouth, Cornwall. Four beaches sit on your doorstep, with surfing, paddleboarding and sailing hotspots close by. Few universities in the UK offer as much natural space for you to clear your head and relax.

Entry:

A Level: AAB–ABB

Open days: For more information on open days click here

---

University of East Anglia – Environmental Sciences MSci (4 years)

The facts:

• University of East Anglia (UEA) was awarded Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2017–21
• 90 per cent of students were satisfied with the teaching quality of the Environmental Sciences MSci course at UEA (National Student Survey)
• £23,000 average earnings 15 months after the course for Environmental Science MSci graduates (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• 95 per cent of students graduating the course go on to work and or study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey)

The breakdown:

In Year One you’ll be taught a range of compulsory modules that will set the groundwork for your degree. Research and field skills; sustainability, society and biodiversity; global environmental challenges; and understanding the dynamic planet all form part of the first year. You’ll also be able to choose two optional modules in mathematics and quantitation, as well as atmosphere and oceans.

From Year Two you can really tailor your choices in one of the most flexible environmental science courses out there. Optional modules are broad-ranging, from subjects like field ecology, applied geophysics to weather applications – there are lots to choose from.

In Year Three you’ll undertake your independent research project using the skills you’ve picked up. There are many further options for optional modules, as well as a Spain field trip in either geosciences or sustainable development. In year four, you’ll use the skills from your independent research project for an expanded research training project, which you will use to demonstrate your preparedness for a career in environmental science.

The place:

The University of East Anglia has acres of parkland, distinctive architecture and a vibrant, welcoming culture. For sports fans, there’s a £30 million Sportspark, a 24/7 library, an arts and music scene, and plenty of green space on campus. Nearby Norwich is rich in culture, history and heritage, while the Norfolk Broads have some beautiful beaches to visit.

Entry:

A Level: AAB–ABB

Open days: For more information on open days click here

---

University of Hull – Environmental Science BSc (3 years)

The facts:

• University of Hull ranked in the top three UK universities for research impact (REF 2014)
• 93 per cent of students were satisfied with the quality of the Environmental Science BSc course at University of Hull (National Student Survey)
• Average earnings of £20,000 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• 88 per cent go on to work and or study within 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• 63 per cent are in highly skilled work 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes Survey)

The breakdown:

Your first year will give you a complete overview of Environmental Science subjects. You’ll study ‘Diversity of Life’, ‘Exploring the Worlds Around Us’, ‘Practical Ecology’, ‘Interpreting Environments’, with options to undergo scuba diving training as part of your degree.

Second year has compulsory modules in Geographic Information Systems and key aspects of ecology and life in the Anthropocene. You’ll be able to select from a diverse range of optional courses to suit your interests in environmental science, ranging from geomorphology, to environmental change, sustainable futures and more.

An environmental science dissertation comes in your final year. You’ll also study environmental impact assessments and monitoring approaches, with a range of optional modules in environmental science. You have the option to take field trips to Malaysia and Brazil, to do a teaching or environmental consultancy project.

The place:

Hull is part of the East Riding of Yorkshire, meaning the bustling city is a stone’s throw from the Yorkshire Dales. A marina and fruit market have become the cultural heart of a city rich and varied in heritage. Hull is voted the UK’s second friendliest city – the perfect backdrop to make new friends and launch your career.

Open days: Next virtual open days will take place on 27 and 28 November. Click here for more information on open days.

Entry:

A Level: BBB

Aberystwyth University – Environmental Science BSc (3 years)

The facts: 

• 92 per cent student satisfaction from students at the Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, Aberystwyth University (National Students Survey)
• Top 10 in the UK for Geography and Environmental Science subjects (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019)
• 97 per cent of Environmental Science BSc graduates were in work or further study within six months (HESA)

The breakdown:

The Environmental Science course at Aberystwyth gives you a detailed insight into geography, biology and the environment. You’ll develop a deeper understanding of environmental challenges, including climate change and biodiversity loss.

Compulsory modules in year one place a focus on fieldwork and research skills, as well as foundational knowledge of earth systems, biogeography, and environmental pressures. Optional modules range from ecology to microbial diversity. In year two, a greater range of optional modules are available; from geohazards, the frozen planet, to freshwater biology, to wildlife management.

In year three you’ll conduct your dissertation on a subject of your choice. You can choose to compliment your dissertation subject choice with optional modules, or diversify your pathway into environmental science.

The place:

Aberystwyth University is set on the coast of Cardigan Bay, surrounded by beautiful marine, moorland and mountain environments. Perfectly suited then, for one of the UK’s best geography and earth science departments.

Entry:

A Level: BBB­–CCC

Open day: An online open day will run on Wednesday 25 November. Further information can be found here.

---

University of Plymouth – Environmental Science BSc (3 years)

The facts:

• 98 per cent of students were satisfied with the teaching quality of the Environmental Science BSc at University of Plymouth (National Students Survey)
• £20,000 average earnings 15 months after completing the course (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• 80 per cent of graduates enter employment or study within 15 months (Grauet Outcomes Survey)

 
The breakdown:

The Environmental Science BSc course at Plymouth is designed to build your understanding of climate change, biodiversity, conservation and sustainability in marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

In your first year, you’ll establish the foundations across a range of scientific, legal and economic subject areas. Field and laboratory work are key, and a residential field course allows you to learn and exercise your research and team skills.

Year two covers core themes including economics and resources, sustainable development, environmental law and policy. A field trip to Malaysia, Malta or Cornwall will develop your research skills. You’ll also be able to select modules, allowing you to study: biodiversity and conservation; climate change; marine conservation; environmental management and more.

There is an optional placement year for your to gain workplace experience from research institutes. Previous placements include the Marine Biological Association (marine ecology), Pell Frischmann (environmental consultancy), the National Trust and Kew Royal Botanic Gardens.

In the final year, you will develop an understanding of the concepts and practice of environmental impact assessment. You’ll learn how to debate and evaluate contemporary environmental issues, and your research project will see you working alongside world-leading scientists in state-of-the-art facilities. A choice of modules across four pathways allows you to pursue interests within the areas of climate change, environmental management and sustainability, biodiversity and conservation, and marine conservation.

The place:

Plymouth is a rich setting for study, work, play and discovery. The location is hard to beat for outstanding natural beauty. A waterfront city on the South Devon coastline boasts pristine seas, beaches and walking, giving you the freedom to explore the UK’s beautiful coast.

Entry:

A Level: BBC

---

Kingston University – Environmental Science BSc (4 years)

The facts:

• 92 per cent of students were satisfied with the quality of the Environmental Science BSc course at Kingston University (National Student Survey)
• £23,000 average graduate earnings 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
• 95 per cent of graduates go on to work and or study within 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes Survey)

The breakdown:

Year one introduces key environmental science concepts and methods of scientific investigation. Compulsory modules will give you fundamental fieldwork and laboratory skills you need. You’ll cover physical geography and environmental hazards, digital earth and spatial analysis, understanding the environment, as well as research and fieldwork methods.

Year two builds knowledge of environmental systems, and develops your analytical science skills through the collection, analysis and interpretation of environmental data. Core modules include: cartography, remote sensing and spatial analysis; land, water and the environment; ecology and conservation; and design and management of environmental projects. After year two, you have the option for a sandwich year where you can go on work placement of international exchange.

Your final year will build on your environmental science skills, allowing you to apply knowledge to investigate contemporary environmental science challenges. An independent research project will reflect your personal environmental interests, helping you develop employability skills. You can also choose to work in South Africa as part of your final year.

The place:

Kingston upon Thames offers the bustle of city life without the hustle. It’s right on the doorstop of the capital. The university’s four campuses are found in around the town centre. The lively student-friendly location is right on the Thames, neighbouring historic Hampton Court Palace and two royal parks.

Entry: CCC

Open day: For more information on open days click here