BSc (Hons) in Earth and Environmental Science with Placement Year, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

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About this course

This degree emphasizes the crucial role of geoscientists in addressing world challenges such as climate change and natural hazards. It provides a broad understanding of both natural and man-made environments, exploring factors that control today's environment, how it has evolved, and potential future changes. The program incorporates expertise from staff specializing in volcanology, geophysics, hydrogeology, and glaciology, offering students options to focus on areas like geological hazards, soil science, environmental radioactivity, or glacial systems. The course combines thematic modules on atmosphere, weather, climate, geology, biogeochemical cycles, environmental challenges, and water management with practical fieldwork, laboratory, and computer modelling projects. A distinctive feature is the optional placement year, supported by the Careers and Placements Team, providing opportunities for work experience in science or non-science roles, which enhances employability and practical skills for tackling environmental issues.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is highly valued for its strong practical focus, including field trips to unique locations like Mount Etna, the Lake District, and Croatia. It combines theoretical knowledge with real-world experience through fieldwork, laboratory, and computer-based projects. The course is accredited by the Community for Environmental Disciplines in Higher Education (CEDHE), ensuring high standards and excellent professional opportunities. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in environmental consultancy, conservation, hydrology, and many other sectors, benefiting from transferable skills like data analysis, communication, and problem-solving. The optional placement year significantly boosts employability, giving students professional experience and industry insight, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to make a meaningful contribution to solving environmental challenges.

Specialisation

Students can tailor their degree as they progress, with focus areas including geological hazards, soil science, environmental radioactivity, or glacial systems. In the second year, core modules prepare you for your third-year dissertation project, which you can choose to conduct with substantial fieldwork, laboratory work, or computer modelling. The course offers optional modules such as volcanic processes, glacial systems, hydrogeology, remote sensing, and environmental chemistry, allowing you to deepen expertise in specific topics aligned with your interests and career goals.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

31.48L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should typically have ABB at A-level, including a science subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Computing, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Human Biology, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology. Other qualifications accepted include BTEC, IB, Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers, T levels, and the IELTS requirement is an overall score of 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component. Specific modules on chemistry and mathematics may be needed if not previously studied at A-level, such as the 'Introduction to Environmental Chemistry' or 'Numerical Skills' modules, which support students without prior qualifications in these subjects.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates find roles across environmental consultancy, natural hazard management, water resource management, conservation, and research. Popular positions include Field Scientist, Strategic Planning Manager, Junior Volcanologist, Sustainability Consultant, and Hydrogeologist, among others. The median starting salary is approximately £24,347. Many graduates continue in academia or move into sectors like climate change consultancy, government agencies, or private environmental firms. The degrees also prepare students for professional registration as a Chartered Environmentalist or Chartered Scientist, especially through the CEDHE accreditation, which provides eligibility for membership in professional bodies and enhances career development.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

Typically, ABB at A-level, including at least one science subject from a specified list, with English and Mathematics GCSEs at the required grades. Other qualifications like BTEC, IB, or Scottish Highers are also considered, and IELTS score of 6.5 overall is needed for non-native English speakers.

Is there a placement year?

Yes, students have the opportunity to spend the third year on a full-time placement in science or non-science roles, supported by the careers team, providing valuable professional experience before graduation.