Newcastle University

Environmental Science BSc

• UCAS Code: F850
• Course duration: 3 years

Environmental Science is the study of the whole environment - so involves both biological organisms and our physical environment, and the interactions between them. It focuses on the processes within ecosystems and how we can manage our natural resources more effectively. Conservation and environmental ethics, social and economic factors, are all part of environmental science.

The environmental impact of human society, how we manage natural resources, sustainability and the decreasing biodiversity of our planet are major concerns. This degree programme teaches a broad foundation of science-based skills, equipping students for careers in the full range of environmental professions, particularly in areas relating to environmental protection. Our teaching team has a strong research base and is at the forefront of research at the agriculture-environment interface and in global environment and development issues.

Programme Description

This degree equips you with an understanding of contemporary issues in environmental management, knowledge of the interactions between processes operating in the physical environment and ecosystems, together with an awareness of the legislative and ethical framework within which environmental scientists operate. At Stages 2 and 3 you choose one of two streams specializing further in either environmental science or environmental policy.

Stage 1: Ensures a firm foundation across the full spectrum of disciplines necessary to practise environmental science including:

• soil and land resources,
• ecology,
• global environmental systems,
• quantitative analysis and
• field techniques.

This includes laboratory and fieldwork, individual and team problem-solving and the study of contemporary issues in environmental management. There is an emphasis on good study practice, with particular modules focusing very much on developing understanding rather than just facts.

Stage 2: Builds on stage 1, and comprises compulsory modules addressing:

• the practice of environmental science,
• terrestrial ecosystems,
• climate and environmental change,
• conservation issues,
• environmental assessment and design

It also includes optional modules chosen from one of the programme's two study streams. In the science stream you can study land, freshwater and marine environments, pollution and the ecology of natural and managed systems, while the policy stream focuses more on the economic, political and legislative framework for environmental management. There is considerable choice of additional optional modules within both streams.

Stage 3: Continues with core modules consolidating and developing field skills, studying tropical environments, biological conservation, ecosystems management and sustainability assessment, together with optional modules from one of the two study streams. At Stage 3 all students undertake a project, which may involve a scientific investigation or liaison with local agencies to produce an analysis of a contemporary environmental issue. Previous topics have included: an investigation of links between ecotourism and sustainable development in Sabah , Malaysia ; and a survey of changing attitudes and behaviour towards recycling.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching is by combination of lectures, seminars, project work and practical classes. Field observation, report writing and reflection on collated data and case studies also aid the development and understanding. Practical aspects of the subject, including laboratory and field work can at times account for 50% of your study time.

Assessment methods also vary from formal exams which can take the format of multiple choice, short answers, essays; coursework, group work, you may also complete a dissertation, possibly based on your placement experience.

Entry Requirements

A Levels : ABB/BBB preferably including two science subjects (one of which may be Geography). GCSE Mathematics (minimum grade C) required if not offered at a higher level.

Scottish Highers: AABBB/BBBBB including at least two sciences (which may include Geography). Mathematics required at Standard Grade (or Intermediate 2) if not offered at Higher Grade. Combinations of Highers and Advanced Highers accepted.

International Baccalaureate: Minimum of 30 points with a science subject at Higher Level grade 5 or above. Mathematics should be offered at Standard Level grade 5 or above if not offered at Higher Level.

Irish Leaving Certificate: AABBB/ABBBB at Higher Level, to include two science subjects (Geography or Mathematics included).

Access Qualifications : For applicants offering Access to HE courses, modules in Mathematics are essential and Geographical, Environmental or Biological Science are desirable (three modules at Merit grade for HEFC).

BTEC Higher National Diploma: BTEC Higher National Diploma in a science-related subject to include at least eight units at Merit grade, including Physical or Biological Sciences at Merit grade and Mathematics at Pass grade.

BTEC National Diploma: BTEC National Diploma in a science-related subject at overall DMM/MMM, to include Physical or Biological Sciences and Mathematics units.

Further information

For additional information contact about BSc Environmental Science, contact:

Dr Elizabeth Stockdale
Degree Program Director
School of Agriculture Food and Rural Development
Newcastle University
Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 7RU
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 (0) 191 222 6915
E-mail: e.a.stockdale@ncl.ac.uk

For more general enquiries please email: afrd-enquiries@ncl.ac.uk