Newcastle University

Environmental Sciences (Agricultural and Environmental Science) MEnv Honours
UCAS Code: F8D4 (4 Years)

• Course Overview
• Modules
• Entry Requirements
• Careers
• Finance

Environmental science is the study of the whole environment so involves both biological organisms and our physical environment, and the interactions between them.

This degree gives you a firm foundation in environmental science before you go on to specialise in agricultural and environmental science in your final year.

In the first three years, you will develop your knowledge in biology, geography, geology, policy-making and law, to help you understand the processes within ecosystems and how we can manage our natural resources more effectively. In order to promote conservation and sustainability in every day life, you will also learn about the role of social and economic factors, ethics and public perception in environmental management.

In the final year you receive an interdisciplinary training in the scientific principles necessary to understand the interactions of agriculture with the environment, with an emphasis on sustainability and the ecological consequences of unsound management.

Teaching and assessment

Research-informed teaching shapes the content of our undergraduate degrees and makes sure that you have the chance to cover the most up-to-date theories and discoveries in your subject. This degree is taught within the School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development. Research in the School covers two key areas:

• Rural society and enterprise

• Sustainable agricultural and food systems

The School also hosts a number of research centres and institutes whose work will feed directly into your study programme including:

• Centre for Rural Economy

• Newcastle Institute for Research on Sustainability

Throughout the degree you will learn and develop the skills needed to conduct your own research both as an individual and as part of a group, which may involve scientific research or consultancy-based investigations. Project work gives you the chance to consolidate essential skills in planning and carrying out research, as well as being an opportunity to explore a topic of interest in more detail.

In the final year you will study modules at postgraduate level and undertake a major research project. This can be carried out as a piece of consultancy work for a company or might contribute to on-going research work.

Teaching and assessment methods may vary from module to module, more information can be found in our individual module listings. Further information can be found on our undergraduate web pages about the approach to teaching and learning at Newcastle University.

Flexible degree structure

All of our MEnv degrees – and our BSc Environmental Science – share the same first three years, giving you the chance to build a strong foundation in all aspects of the environmental sciences before selecting your specialism. You will have the opportunity to learn all about the different specialisms available to you via optional modules before you make your final decision, and can transfer between degree programme up until Stage 3. To progress to Stage 4 of this degree you must have an overall average of 55 across all modules taken at Stage 3, with no more than 20 credits lower than 50.

Field visits

You will have the chance to take part in a wide variety of field visits exploring the varied landscapes and habitats and rugged beauty of Northumberland, County Durham and Cumbria. In Stage 2, you take part in a field-based module, developing field observation skills and data collection. You also take part in a week-long residential field course in Stage 3, further consolidating your skills of planning and undertaking a field investigation.

Study abroad

UK and EU students have the opportunity to broaden their academic experience by taking part in a study abroad exchange. Find out more on our Study Abroad webpage.

Facilities

The University offers first-class facilities to support your practical work, including:

• two University farms, which operate as viable farming businesses
• an experimental station providing field laboratories for evaluation and testing of ecologically friendly pesticides and biocontrol agents
• collections of tropical and desert plants in our botanic gardens

School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development

As an agriculture student at Newcastle you will be part of the School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development.

The School's main teaching and laboratory facilities are located on campus in the Agriculture Building.

You also have the chance to join the student-led Agric society, which is responsible for fostering a close community spirit within the School.