Environmental Science (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

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Course overview

New technological and environmental approaches are needed to conserve the planet's natural resources, and change economic, political, and social policies to mitigate the impact before it’s too late.

You explore multiple disciplines (physical geography, geology, atmospheric science, environmental chemistry, biology, and ecology) in classroom, laboratory, computer, and field-based learning environments. You gain key skills in quantitative analysis, geographic information system mapping and spatial data analysis, as well as field and laboratory techniques for monitoring environmental and ecological impacts. This diverse skillset empowers you to address environmental challenges and identify innovative solutions for a sustainable future through an environmental science career.

The academic team brings a broad range of relevant expertise to this course, from academic research to professional consultancy. You benefit from our connections with industry, government agencies, NGOs, and research networks as well as the real-world case studies that we embed in our practice-led teaching. You can complete an optional work placement year as part of your course at no extra cost.

Teesside University is in the Tees Valley, an industrialised area that is pioneering new environmental technology and policies such as net-zero emissions. Surrounding the campus is a wide variety of national parks and exceptional coastal ecosystems. This unique mix of industry and nature gives you a wealth of learning opportunities.

As an environmental science graduate, you can play a significant part in making the world a better place to live.

This course includes a foundation year - ideal if you need additional preparation or if you don't have sufficient grades to join Year 1 of a degree.

Top reasons to choose Teesside

Diverse, research active staff with a wealth of experience

Interdisciplinary approach to complex societal challenges

Vibrant learning environments

International fieldtrip to a world class destination

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Program Outline

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Environmental Science (with Foundation Year), BSc (Hons)

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Degree Overview:

This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges and contribute to a sustainable future. It emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, combining physical geography, geology, atmospheric science, environmental chemistry, biology, and ecology. Students gain expertise in quantitative analysis, geographic information system mapping, spatial data analysis, and field and laboratory techniques for monitoring environmental and ecological impacts.

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Outline:

• Year 1 (Foundation) covers core concepts in environmental science, the role of science and technology in addressing environmental challenges, and the multidisciplinary nature of sustainability.
• Year 2 explores the impacts of human activities on environmental systems, including monitoring, minimizing, and managing these impacts.
Students study sustainable resource use, energy and waste management, and remediation approaches.
• Year 3 focuses on innovative technologies and solutions for addressing environmental problems.
Students delving into areas like geographic information systems to identify, analyze, and address environmental issues and inform policy. This year includes an international field trip or a sustainability project and a major individual research project.

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Modules:

• Big Data explores the use of big data in environmental science, its applications, and ethical considerations.
• Chemical Science and the Environment provides an overview of fundamental chemistry concepts and their application in environmental and life sciences.
• Experimental Methods for Life Science focuses on practical laboratory skills for studying life sciences.
• Global Grand Challenges examines how science can address global challenges in areas like health, environment, and technology.
• Life on Earth explores the diversity of life on Earth and the concept of evolution.
• Life Science studies the human body's systems and their interaction with the environment.
• Animal and Plant Biology focuses on the physiology, ecology, and diversity of animals and plants.
• Biodiversity and Evolution explores the evolution of biodiversity and the relationships between species.
• Earth Systems examines the fundamental systems that shape Earth's environment.
• Energy Systems introduces energy generation, storage, distribution, and environmental consequences.
• Global Environmental Issues explores various environmental challenges and potential solutions.
• Physical Geography and Geology Field Work provides practical field skills in physical geography and geology.
• Cities and Sustainable Futures investigates the relationship between urban spaces and sustainable futures.
• Earth Observation and GIS teaches remote sensing and geographical information systems for environmental management.
• Ecology and Biodiversity explores the interaction of species, ecosystems, and biodiversity conservation.
• Practical Conservation focuses on practical approaches to biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management.
• Renewable Energy explores renewable energy technologies and their impact on the energy market.
• The Anthropocene examines the impact of human activities on the planet and potential solutions for a sustainable future.
• Biodiversity and Ecosystems explores the benefits of natural ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity conservation.
• Biogeography and Conservation investigates the distribution of species, conservation practices, and biodiversity loss.
• Environmental Resource Management evaluates sustainability models, energy policies, and technologies.
• International Fieldtrip provides an opportunity to apply skills and knowledge in a foreign environment.
• Sustainability Project focuses on teamwork, problem-solving, and developing sustainability solutions.

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Assessment:

Assessments include a combination of formal exams, laboratory reports, computer-based assessments, problem-solving exercises, data interpretation, case studies, oral presentations, technical interviews, essays, literature reviews, collaborative projects, poster presentations, and project reports.

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Teaching:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, field work, laboratory work, and computer laboratory-based sessions. Students receive support through the virtual learning environment (VLE) site, which provides access to course materials, additional resources, and online communication tools.

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Careers:

Graduates can pursue careers in environmental consultancies, governmental agencies, NGOs, and other organizations involved in environmental solutions, including:

• Land management
• Water resources management
• Air quality management
• Waste management
• Biodiversity and natural assets conservation
• Ecosystem services provision
• Environmental impact assessment
• Environmental audits
• Environmental education
• Public perception of the environment
• Energy strategies
• Environmental management systems

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Other:

• The program welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds and accepts a variety of Level 3 qualifications.
• English language and mathematics requirements are typically at the GCSE grade 4 level.
• International students can find information about qualifications and visa requirements on the university website.
• RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) may be available for students with relevant work or life experience.

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Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• UK applicants: £9,250 a year
• International applicants: £17,000 a year