Environmental Science BSc (Hons)

Undergraduate

This course offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, combining scientific knowledge with practical skills in sustainability and environmental management.

Year of entry

2026-27

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich

Course code

F900

Start date

September 2026
November 2026
January 2027
March 2027
May 2027
July 2027

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

Course overview

Passionate about the environment and making a difference in the world? This course is designed to give you a deep understanding of the environment and the skills to tackle real-world challenges.

In your first year you will dive into the basic principles of environmental science and explore current issues like climate change and conservation.
In the second year, dig deeper into key concepts, theories and debates that shape the field.
Final year study involves applying what you've learned to real-world problems, developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The course also explores the ethical considerations of working in this field, especially in research and fieldwork.

Rated Gold Overall

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2026

Why you should study this course

Environmental scientists can help to combat the emerging environmental crises by understanding the physical world and taking a multidisciplinary approach to develop new ways to forge a more sustainable planet.

This course covers both scientific theory and the development of practical, technical and transferable skills, such as fieldwork, data analysis and teamwork. These skills may help you prepare for a range of roles in the environmental sector.

Sector-leading research and cutting-edge knowledge: benefit from our environmental research, enabling you to engage with the latest scientific discoveries and innovations. Develop a deep understanding of the universal principles and theories that underpin environmental science, preparing you to contribute to the field at a high level.
Experienced academic and industry experts: learn from experienced academic staff with strong ties to industry, government and non-governmental organisations. The course is designed to provide insights into both academic research and real-world applications, ensuring that you are learning the most current and practical approaches to environmental challenges.
Broad grounding in environment and sustainability: this course offers a comprehensive foundation in environmental science and sustainability, covering essential theories, concepts and techniques. Illustrate the practical value of environmental science in various contexts, equipping you with the versatility to work in different sectors.
Practical skills and research experience: develop subject-specific skills by engaging with field-based research and diverse techniques for collecting, analysing and communicating environmental information. This course emphasises practical skills throughout the research process, from design to execution, to support your development as a researcher able to explore complex environmental issues.
Common first year – interdisciplinary learning: learn alongside students in related fields in your first year. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a broad understanding of environmental issues and enhances your ability to apply knowledge across multiple sectors.
Placement year opportunities and industry connections: our strong links with industry offer you access to placement opportunities, which can provide real-world experience in applying environmental science principles and research skills.² This hands-on experience ensures that you graduate with the technical and transferable skills employers are looking for.

What you'll study

The common first year enables you to study alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first-year courses

Ecology and Conservation BSc (Hons)
Environmental Science BSc (Hons).

Modules

Field and Research Skills for People and Environments – 30 credits

Learn essential fieldwork, research and data analysis skills to investigate the environment and society. Engage with academic research, evaluate data sources and apply ethical considerations to data collection. This involves collecting and analysing quantitative and qualitative field data, working with secondary datasets and using basic descriptive statistics to summarise findings.

Develop spatial analysis skills by integrating field data with GIS and remote sensing techniques. Learn how to apply these skills in real-world geographical and environmental scenarios.

Compulsory

Dynamic Earth and Society – 30 credits

This module introduces you to the intricate and dynamic relationships between the natural world and human activity. Investigate the rates and drivers of environmental and societal change, beginning with the origins of the universe and progressing through time, with a focus on the Anthropocene and future trajectories.

Collect evidence to understand environmental change and degradation, examining both natural processes and human-induced factors such as climate change, land-use change, biodiversity loss, pollution, population pressures, global inequality and resource depletion.

The module emphasises the importance of multi- and interdisciplinary approaches in understanding and managing environmental change. It fosters critical engagement with contemporary environmental, socio-cultural and political issues and should equip you with a comprehensive understanding of these complex issues.

Compulsory

Principles of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health - 30 credits

This module introduces the basic principles of biological organisation, species diversity, and classification. It explores key processes in living organisms, including genetics, natural selection, and evolution. Examine ecological interactions, the value of biodiversity, and how human activities impact ecosystems. Cover topics such as conservation and ecosystem services.

Key environmental policies and legislation impacting biodiversity and ecosystem management will be introduced, along with sustainable practices to preserve biodiversity and maintain ecosystem health. Case studies will illustrate the application of biological principles in environmental science, such as the restoration of degraded ecosystems or the management of invasive species.

Compulsory

Natural and Environmental Resources - 30 credits

Learn the principles of ecological integrity, the environmental impacts of land use and change, and the exploitation of natural resources. This involves understanding how human activities impact ecosystems at a range of scales and how sustainable practices can enhance environmental health.

During the module, you will explore the life cycle of materials and water resources, from extraction and production to use and disposal. Gain insights into minimising negative environmental effects throughout these processes. The module covers the transition to renewable energy sources and their role in promoting environmental sustainability.

Compulsory

Modules

Advanced Geospatial and Field Techniques – 30 credits

Advance your ability to design and conduct independent research using more advanced fieldwork, statistical, laboratory and geospatial techniques. Engage with academic research, justify methodological choices and apply advanced data analysis methods. This includes statistical testing and the integration of quantitative, qualitative, and spatial data. GIS and Remote Sensing skills will also be developed, with a focus on processing, analysing and evaluating spatial data within broader analytical frameworks.

Assess the effectiveness of geospatial techniques and produce high-quality outputs to support research and decision-making in environmental and social contexts.

Compulsory

Climate Change: Science, Society and Solutions – 30 credits

Explore climate change as both a scientific phenomenon and a societal challenge through topics like enhanced greenhouse effect, future climate projections, and impacts on human, natural and managed systems, with a focus on sustainability. Evaluate mitigation and adaptation strategies alongside the role of policy, governance and market-based mechanisms in shaping global responses. Investigate climate change communication, such as media influence on public opinion and consumer behaviour, and societal and health impacts, such as economic challenges, climate justice and social equity.

The module combines scientific, technological, policy and community-led approaches to tackling climate challenges. It aims to equip you with the analytical skills to assess and contribute to effective, evidence-based solutions for a sustainable future.

Compulsory

Pollution and Mitigation – 30 credits

Explore the sources, pathways and impacts of environmental pollution and the responses required to monitor and manage their effects.

This module explores the sources and impacts of water, air, and soil pollution across urban, rural and industrial environments. Examine strategies for pollution prevention and remediation, including policies and practices such as the NPPF, Countryside Stewardship, Catchment Sensitive Farming, Nitrate Sensitive Areas, and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). The module also introduces regulatory frameworks and monitoring techniques, supported by practical fieldwork.²

Compulsory

Hazards of the Environment – 30 credits

Explore the complex and diverse range of environmental hazards beyond those traditionally classified as natural hazards. Examine the underlying physical, biological and technological processes that drive these hazards, considering their variability across different spatial and temporal scales. Emphasis is placed on understanding the interconnected nature of environmental risks and the cascading effects that can arise from system failures. Develop analytical skills to assess and interpret diverse hazard types, fostering a scientific approach to investigating and assessing environmental threats in a dynamic and changing world.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement² can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2027/28 will pay £1,500 if they are paying UK fees, or £1,800 if they are paying international fees.

Modules

UK Work Placement – 0 credits

This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

This module ² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

Modules

Quaternary Environments - 30 credits

Develop a critical awareness of future global climate change. Understand how studying the past helps predict changes in society and the environment. Study different types of evidence to understand when and how environmental changes and human activities occurred during the Quaternary period. Paleoenvironmental data is key to climate model development, which in turn is used to simulate Earth’s climate and the forces that affect it. Learn how to appraise the evidence used to develop and evaluate these predictive climate and environmental change models.

Compulsory

Environmental Geoinformatics – 30 credits

Advance your skills in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and computational modelling and gain the skills needed to analyse complex spatial data.

Study the environment using geospatial technologies and theoretical frameworks. Learn how to build on using spatial data processing, analysis and visualisation.

Additionally, you will learn advanced techniques in geostatistics, automation, programming and modelling. Develop your analytics skills and ability to assess data accuracy. Take part in practical sessions, field data collection and engagement with published research.² Learn how to address environmental, ecological and sustainability challenges using geospatial technologies, preparing you for research or professional roles.

Compulsory

Environmental Geosciences - 30 credits

Explore the interactions between Earth systems and human activity and gain an understanding of how Earth materials (such as minerals, rocks, and soils) form, their global distribution, and how we can move toward sustainable utilisation.

The module enables the evaluation of methods to remediate and rehabilitate polluted or degraded environments, including soil remediation, phytoremediation (using plants to clean up pollutants) and habitat restoration.

Compulsory

Undergraduate Research Project – 30 credits

Develop your research and investigative skills by scoping, designing and conducting an independent research dissertation under the supervision of academic staff experienced in the field.

Module content aims to improve your understanding of problem identification, reviewing literature and research design, and the development and implementation of appropriate methods. You will be supported to conduct research independently and to plan, manage, and conduct research within an appropriate context.

This includes the development of an understanding of:

research design and methodology
ethical considerations of research
health and safety concerns (including, where appropriate, risk assessments)
research methods for technical, scientific and social science investigations
project management
data collection, interpretation and analysis
report writing.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

You will be taught by current experienced, qualified teaching staff who bring professional and research expertise into their teaching (staff are subject to change).

The mandatory field trips provide an opportunity to contextualise classroom-based learning and develop practical skills through real-life application. These mandatory trips occur in each year, they could be in the UK or abroad, but incur no extra cost to you. Additionally, we aim to give you opportunities to undertake a range of optional day and UK-residential trips to gain practical experience of applying your knowledge² (see the 'Fees and funding' section for more information).

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. You will normally study one 30-credit module at a time. A typical 30-credit module requires a total of 300 hours of study made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary depending on your year of study and selected modules. During your first year, you can expect 12-15 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend additional sessions, including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learned and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module.

Assessment methods may include:

formal examinations
phase tests
essays
group work
presentations
reports
projects
coursework
exams
individual assignments.

The Coventry University assessment strategy aims to ensure that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

Requirement	What we're looking for
UCAS points	112
A level	BBC
GCSE	5 GCSEs at grade 4 / C or above including English and Mathematics.
BTEC	DMM
IB Diploma	29 points
Access to HE	The Access to HE Diploma to include 30 Level 3 credits at Merit. Plus GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 4 / C or above.

Other qualifications and experience

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team who will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.

Contextual/Fair Access Offers

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Offer, you could automatically receive a contextual offer which is 16 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Offer.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

IELTS: 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	TBC per year	Not available
EU	TBC per year with EU Support Bursary TBC per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	TBC per year	Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2027/28. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Wave tank

Our wave tank can recreate multiple wave formations for different experiments, but in a controlled environment. This allows you to work on projects and test scenarios related to coastal management. Practical applied experimentation will help you test your theoretical learning in real-world scenarios.

three people stood in the simulation room

Simulation Centre

Our Simulation Centre uses an interactive screen and real-life scenarios to create a ‘virtual’ training environment. Role-play exercises are part of the course to help prepare you for situations in the workplace.

Superlab

The SuperLab can hold up to 250 students, making it one of the largest educational laboratories in the UK. It is well-equipped with the latest industry-standard equipment including facilities for microscopy, cell culture, haematology, DNA analysis, chemical analysis and forensic testing.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Careers and opportunities

With access to sector-leading research, experienced faculty, and strong links to industry, you should be well-prepared to tackle real-world environmental challenges. We offer access to a placement year, which could provide hands-on experience. The course also emphasises fieldwork, research and transferable skills to help you prepare for a variety of roles in sustainability.

Graduates are well-suited for careers in:

environmental consultancy
policy-making
environmental management
academia and research.

This also includes working in the water, waste and land sectors.

Further study

You could choose to continue your studies at Coventry University with the Sustainability and Environmental Management MSc or Disaster Management and Resilience MSc. You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

Two students sat at a desk working on a laptop

Discover Phoenix+

Phoenix+ brings you together with other students to learn, experience and develop essential knowledge and skills. Whatever destination you choose, it's about preparing you for life after university.

Learn more about Phoenix+

How to apply

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time students can apply for this course through UCAS. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If this course has a part-time option you will need to apply directly to the university.

Apply via the portal

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

International students

International codes:
EESU096

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International mini guide for an overview of study options and why you should study with us.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

ioadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations, partnerships and memberships

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply. See the relevant body website for more details). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships are subject to successful renewal in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. If the accreditation, recognition or membership of this course changes, we will seek to notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2025/2026 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2026/2027 contract will apply for the 2026/2027 intake. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.