Environmental Scientists are needed more than ever by industry, government and society. This environmental science degree course brings together information from a wide range of subjects to explore some of the most important environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, conservation, and food security.

A broad base and a solid foundation

This environmental science degree is broadly based with its roots in biology (giving you an understanding of organisms, their environments and their communities), chemistry (providing an understanding of many natural environmental processes and pollution), earth science (giving you a background in global processes), and land and water resource management. A combination of such subject areas, combined with many practical sessions and field trips, creates a degree that is both fascinating and rewarding.

We use a wide variety of teaching methods ranging from lectures, practicals and fieldwork to seminars and tutorials. The fieldwork and practicals give you the skills that employers look for in graduate Environmental Scientists. Seminars and tutorials concentrate on problem-solving, study skills development and reinforcing material taught in lectures; their relaxed and informal atmosphere also encourages lively discussion of current environmental issues.

You will study 120 credits in each year, through a range of modules. Some modules are compulsory, others are optional, allowing you to expand your studies into new areas or develop specialisms that interest you.

Courses are assessed using a variety of methods, with an average split of 60% coursework and 40% examination. We develop your skills in crucial areas such as presentations, report-writing, and interviews; helping to prepare you for employment. Modules make extensive use of the University’s ‘Blackboard’ virtual learning environment, which provides direct access to learning resources, course documents and lecture notes. We regularly invite guest speakers to give lectures, and you will also meet potential employers during fieldtrips.

What will you study on this course?

Year 1 & 2

During this time, you will come to understand the foundations of Environmental Science and deepen your understanding of the topic. A range of interesting and exciting modules will bring alive this fantastic subject for you! You will see and hear first-hand about world-leading research projects being conducted at our school as we integrate research into our teaching.

Year 3

You will be able to choose a wide range of topics to study in your modules, meaning you can follow your interests in Environmental Science. The highlight is when you complete your Honours Project; an individual research project on a topic of interest to you, possibly in conjunction with an outside organisation.

The options include a field course to Tenerife, where we study the many different environmental pressures facing the island, and how they can be mitigated.

Modules for the current academic year

Module listings are for guide purposes only and are subject to change. Find out what our students are currently studying on the Environmental Science Modules page.

Course content is for guidance purposes only and may be subject to change.

You will have access to fantastic facilities to support your learning:

• Our own University farm, Henfaes Research Centre, where we conduct fieldtrips and you can run your own large-scale experiment for your project
• Renovated, bespoke labs for teaching and research
• A very large range of analytical kit, so that you can learn how to analyse environmental samples both in the field and in the lab
• Our very own geology collection – regarded as one of the best in the country
• Computer laboratories for you to develop your skills in key areas such as digital mapping and environmental modelling
• One of our best facilities is the environment on our doorstep – you will get the chance to visit so many different places on our fieldtrips, which will cement your learning and understanding of topics.

Bangor is a great location for studying and researching environmental issues as we are minutes away from a huge diversity of landscapes and environments. You will benefit from first-hand interaction with staff that are at the forefront of their field.

The broad base of this Environmental Science degree and the range of skills you will develop means that there will be considerable career opportunities. You can expect to find employment in a wide range of advisory agencies, regulators, consultancies, local government, and in research and development, both locally and overseas. In terms of industries, the ‘green economy’ is rapidly growing, and there will be opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, waste management, nuclear, construction, agriculture, and transport. The course also provides a good basis for teaching and work in the media. You may consider postgraduate study e.g., a professional MSc course, or research leading to a PhD. Graduates of Environmental Science from Bangor University can be found in excellent jobs all over the world.

Opportunities at Bangor

The University’s Skills and Employability Service provides a wide range of resources to help you achieve your graduate ambitions.

The Bangor Employability Award (BEA)

With the BEA, you can gain recognition for your extra-curricular activities (e.g. volunteering, clubs and societies, part-time work, etc.)

Internships

Bangor University runs a paid internship scheme within the university’s academic and service departments.

Student Volunteering

Volunteering widens your experience and improves your employability. Find out more about the volunteering on the Students’ Union’s website.