BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

36 Months

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About this course

Environmental Science at Lancaster offers a flexible program that combines multiple scientific disciplines to suit your interests and career goals. You will explore how different parts of the Earth system—like the atmosphere, aquatic, and terrestrial ecosystems—interact and how human activities influence these natural environments. Throughout your studies, you'll learn from renowned academics and utilize advanced laboratories for practical experience. The first year introduces fundamental themes such as hydrology, weather, and climate, while the second year emphasizes applying knowledge through fieldwork modules and opportunities in various environments including the Lake District, Switzerland, and Devon. As you progress, you’ll select modules aligned with your interests like energy or remote sensing, culminating in a dissertation project. Transferable skills such as communication, data handling, and research methods are heavily integrated to enhance employability.

Why this course is highly recommended

Lancaster’s program is well-regarded for its practical focus and accreditation by the Community for Environmental Disciplines in Higher Education (CEDHE), guaranteeing high standards and strong links to industry. The course offers a wide range of fieldwork opportunities, both in the UK and abroad, providing hands-on experience that employers value. The professional placements and skills modules deepen your practical knowledge and employability. Graduates benefit from excellent career prospects, with many moving into roles like environmental consultancy, water management, conservation, and policy advisory, often earning competitive starting salaries.

Specialisation

The degree allows students to specialise beginning in the second year, choosing modules in areas like energy, ecology, or remote sensing, based on interests. Additionally, students can tailor their third-year dissertation project to focus on a specific topic, like fieldwork, lab research, or computer modeling, aligned with their career aspirations.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

31.48L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should have ABB at A level, including a science subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, or Physics. Additional qualifications like BTEC, IB, or Scottish Highers are accepted with specified grades, and GCSE requirements include Mathematics grade 5/B and English Language grade 4/C. For those lacking A level Chemistry or Mathematics, foundational modules are provided in the first year. English proficiency requires an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of Lancaster’s Environmental Science course enter diverse roles, including Environmental Consultant, Hydrologist, Conservation Officer, Sustainability Consultant, and more. Many pursue further research, such as PhDs, or roles in government, industry, or NGOs. The program’s accreditation and practical experience give students an edge in a growing global job market focused on addressing environmental challenges. Graduates have secured positions at organizations like AECOM, Natural England, and Carnival Corporation, with an average starting salary around £24,347.

FAQs

What practical learning opportunities does Lancaster offer?

The course includes numerous field trips such as to Carrock Fell in the Lake District, Switzerland, Cork, and Devon, providing firsthand experience in environmental research and data collection.

Can I participate in a placement year?

Yes, optional placement years allow you to work full-time in relevant sectors, often enhancing employability and clarifying career goals.