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Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Environmental Science with Foundation Year
Environmental scientists tackle global challenges. Gain skills to address issues like climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss. With hands-on lab and field training, you’ll graduate ready to lead in conservation, sustainability and more.
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
Out in the field
From your very first month, you’ll be out in the field applying what you learn to real-world environments. Through hands-on fieldwork across the UK and overseas, you’ll explore diverse landscapes and tackle local and global environmental, social and geographical issues – turning theory into impactful, practical experience.
50 years of impact
Join one of the UK’s longest-running and most respected programmes in the field. Since 1973, over 6,000 graduates have gone on to shape impactful careers – proof of a degree built on practical learning, innovation and a legacy of real-world influence.
Real-word experience
Combine theory with hands-on learning in labs and the field. Choose a 6-week or 6–12 month placement in the UK, EU, or beyond to gain experience, boost confidence and grow your network through our strong alumni, employer and research connections.
you don’t currently meet the entry requirements or have been out of education for a while
you’re passionate about understanding and addressing today’s most pressing global challenges
you want to gain specialist and transferable skills that are in high demand across a range of sectors
you're interested in gaining hands-on fieldwork experience
Details
Progression routes
After successful completion of your Foundation Year, you will have the choice of progressing onto:
These are standard progression routes but other routes may be considered.
Foundation year
Your Foundation Year will equip you with the study skills and knowledge to successfully progress onto your chosen degree programme. You will gain an understanding of core concepts in environmental science, chemistry, biology and mathematics. Working alongside an interdisciplinary cohort of students, you will explore the global challenges that we face as society today. Teaching will consist of a combination of hands-on practical work, lectures, small-group learning and fieldwork.
Core modules
FYM001
Becoming a Successful Global Scientist
30 credits
This module will introduce learners to some of the major global environmental challenges facing society today and how science has a role in tackling them. It will help enable learners to adapt to the Higher Education Learning Environment by the development of a more independent, reflective and self-managed approach to study, learning, scientific writing, time management and mathematical skills for the study of science.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
FYM002
Essentials for Physical and Environmental Sciences
30 credits
This module introduces learners to the study of physical and environmental science. It covers the very small scale from atoms to large scale global systems. This module teaches the fundamental concepts and analysis methods for chemical, environmental and earth system sciences. No prior knowledge is assumed. Emphasis is placed on building understanding of core principles and confidence in essential practical techniques.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
FYM004
Our Changing Planet - Chemical and Geo-environmental Processes
30 credits
This module builds on the core ideas introduced in its partner module in the first semester (FYM002), introducing a range of additional physical, earth and environmental concepts. There will be a strong emphasis on applying scientific principles to a wide range of topics in earth, environmental and chemical sciences.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
FYM006
Sustainable Development Project
30 credits
This module will introduce the learners to group work. As part of a group, they will investigate one of the global environmental challenges facing society today. Each global environmental challenge will be investigated through its impact(s) in and around SW England. The learners will be guided in their investigation and present their findings at an end of year conference. This will be followed by an individual reflection upon the group work process.
50% Practicals
50% Tests
Core modules
GEES1302
Soils, Water, Climate
20 credits
Join us on a journey to discover Earth’s essential natural resources, such as minerals, soils and water. Through engaging laboratory experiments and insightful data analysis, you will explore geochemical cycles and processes to gain a deep understanding of the linkages between Earth systems and our changing climate.
70% Remotely delivered assessments
30% Tests
GEES1303
Our Ecological Planet: Biodiversity and Ecological Change
20 credits
Explore Earth's ecosystems in this hands-on, interdisciplinary module! Dive into ecology, biodiversity, and conservation through fieldwork and case studies. Learn taxa identification, habitat dynamics, and key ecological processes. Build real-world skills to tackle global challenges and kickstart your career in environmental science and management.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
GEES1304
Our Polluted Planet
Dive into the world of environmental chemistry and uncover the science behind pollution and its impact on the environment through the source-pathway-receptor framework. Develop essential scientific research skills with real-world fieldwork, cutting-edge data analysis, and problem-solving skills that will empower you to tackle some of today’s biggest environmental challenges and drive real change.
60% Practicals
40% Coursework
GEES1305
The Environmental Manager's Toolbox
20 credits
Discover the essential tools, strategies and concepts you’ll need to tackle the biggest environmental challenges. Learn from industry experts and explore how our modern economy drives these challenges. Study how laws, governance, corporate responsibility, and sustainable practices are being used in imaginative ways to protect our planet. This module will equip you with the knowledge and skills to be a future-fit leader.
70% Coursework
30% Tests
GEES1106
Our Digital Planet
20 credits
Explore the biggest challenges facing our planet today and discover how data analysis and visualisation can drive real-world solutions. You will be introduced to data analysis, GIS, and cartographic techniques through engaging, hands-on examples. You will develop essential skills while tackling pressing issues. You will receive personalised support from your tutor to help you excel at university-level study.
50% Coursework
50% Tests
GEES1105
Sustainable Futures
20 credits
Explore critical global sustainability challenges and solutions at local, national and international scales. Learn about core sustainability principles and their application to energy, biodiversity, land management, marine, travel, and personal behaviour. Sustainability sector experts share their experience, and students develop knowledge and teamwork skills through a tutor-supported group research project.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Environmental science is a fantastic interdisciplinary course; I never thought I would learn about environmental law, ecological economics, marine science, climate change and soil in the same week!
Oleta Ford
Environmental Science graduate
Environmental Science graduate
Fieldwork to exciting destinations
We believe the most powerful learning happens beyond the classroom – through direct experience and exploration. That’s why our fieldwork programme is designed to immerse you in hands-on research, tackling key social and environmental challenges across diverse landscapes and cultures.
From the dynamic coastlines of the southwest to destinations across the UK and abroad – including past adventures in Greece and Sweden – you’ll gain practical skills, confidence and deep insight into geographical research methods that prepare you for a meaningful career.
Facilities to support your learning
As an environmental scientist at Â鶹´«Ã½, you will have access to a range of
cutting-edge resources and facilities
to support your learning in the field and in the laboratory.
You might find yourself identifying microfossils, pollen, microplastics and more in our
5G interactive microscope laboratory
. You'll analyse diverse digital data using specialist software and develop skills in remote sensing and Geographical Information Science (GIS.
Key resources and opportunities include:
- Drones: Available for use in final research projects.
- Handheld sensors: Collect and analyse your own air quality data.
-
LABplus Resource Centre : A flexible learning space offering access to equipment and bespoke samples to support your studies and practical skills. -
Laboratory for Environmental Observations (LEO) : Use sensor data gathered from around the South Coast for your final year projects. -
Paleomagnetic Laboratory : Equipped for magnetic analysis of rocks, sediments and environmental materials for research projects.
The main reason I chose to study environmental science at Â鶹´«Ã½ was the high amount of contact time and the significant amount of practical elements on the course, together with the enthusiasm and passion of the lecturers.
Steph Rooke
BSc (Hons) Environmental Science graduate
BSc (Hons) Environmental Science graduate
HSE Professional SCUBA diving course
Â鶹´«Ã½ is unique in offering you the opportunity to gain the HSE Professional SCUBA certification alongside your degree – qualifying you as a professional diver and opening doors to careers in marine and environmental science.
Scientific diving skills can be enhanced via an optional academic module and getting involved in research projects.