BSc (Hons) Environmental Sciences with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- F850
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Taught by world-leading researchers, this highly flexible degree programme will allow you to explore how the physical, chemical and biological components of the natural environment function and how they're impacted by, and affect, our society, politics and culture in this era of the Anthropocene.
Our BSc Environmental Sciences with a Placement Year programme explores questions such as: How can we tackle the climate and biodiversity crises? What are the best strategies for achieving Net Zero? How are our oceans and rivers changing? What physical processes drive our weather? What happens inside an erupting volcano? How can we transform our energy systems and achieve greater sustainability in our lifestyles? If these are the sort of questions that fascinate you, and you want to gain real-world industry experience in a placement year, then this degree is for you.
The environment supports all aspects of our daily life but is also the source of some of the most complex and wide-ranging challenges facing humanity. The need for environmental scientists who can help us respond to these challenges and ‘make a difference’ at local and global scale has never been greater. This degree will help you become one of these essential people.
At UEA, you’ll conduct experiments in our state-of-the-art laboratories, and develop highly valued transferable skills in data analysis, spatial visualisation and science communication. You'll also gain important field skills and have the exciting opportunity to embark on national and international fieldwork in places such as Greece, Ireland, Swaziland, or Peru. In your third year, you’ll have the chance to put what you’ve learnt into practice by spending 9 to 12 months working in industry, gaining invaluable work experience and building your industry contacts.
Upon graduating, you'll be a highly trained environmental scientist, well-equipped to take up rewarding positions across the public and private sectors where you can provide real-world solutions to today’s environmental challenges. Check out Ed’s story, who is now working as a Project Manager in whale and dolphin conservation, having graduated with a BSc in Environmental Sciences from UEA.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
Your third year will be spent on a placement of your choice. Not only will you see first-hand how your chosen field operates, but you’ll gain valuable contacts and insight. Many students also successfully base their final year project on their placement. We offer full support throughout the placement, from the application process right through to completion, with a UEA staff member as a mentor.
Accreditations
This course is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES).
Students enrolled on IES accredited programmes can apply for free Student Membership of the Institution. Look for the CHES accreditation logo which provides a mark of quality and indicates that an educational institute is planning the career paths of its students.
After graduating, you may choose to progress to a Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) or Chartered Scientist (CSci) status. This will demonstrate to employers your commitment to continuing to develop the knowledge and skills you gained on your degree.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your first year begins with a year of compulsory modules to establish your knowledge of essential topics. We’ll introduce you to the general physical, chemical, and biological principles that govern our environment, as well as key issues around sustainability and human society, and how they interact in some of the major global challenges facing us today. You’ll also develop skills in planning and carrying out research, working in the lab and in the field, and in statistics and mathematics at an appropriate level.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Our teaching is modular. The standard pattern is three modules per semester, but with some variation to accommodate self-contained summer field courses or year-long modules. Typically, a module will include one or two lectures per week plus related practical or seminar sessions where you'll engage further with the material to deepen your understanding. Reading and assessment work outside class further supports your learning. Teaching and assessment styles will vary by module, including the use of digital tools and innovative classroom techniques.
Year one has two year-long skills modules plus four semester-based topic modules, ensuring you develop the knowledge and skills you’ll need to support your module choices in years two and three. Our flagship residential field course during the Easter break will let you broaden your disciplinary knowledge and develop field skills, as well as strengthening community within the course.
Assessment
We use various assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. Coursework assessment methods may include essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations, posters, and blogs. We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work. All module credits contribute equally towards the mark for the year.
Structure
Having built a solid foundation in year one, in year two, you'll now enjoy the freedom to tailor your course around your interests. You’ll learn from research leaders in a range of modules across the broad areas of earth sciences, atmospheres and oceans, ecology, energy and social sciences – as well as interdisciplinary and skills-based modules. You may also request to take a complementary module from another School of the university. In the latter part of the year, you'll begin conceptualising your independent final year project with one-to-one support from an academic supervisor, with potential for summer data collection if appropriate.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Year two offers you full choice across our modules, allowing you to build a degree appropriate to your interests and intended career path. Optional international field courses are available but if you prefer the low carbon options, UK-based field courses are generally offered over Easter, while other modules may include local half-day field excursions.
Assessment
As for year one, assessment methods vary across modules, and coursework assessments range from essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations, posters, and blogs. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback before completing summative work. Years two and four are weighted 40:60 to determine your final degree mark.
Structure
Your placement year is not formally taught but offers a wealth of learning opportunities. You’ll reflect on what you gain over the course of the year with support from an academic mentor. Typically, you’ll spend 9 to 12 months working for an employer, gaining real-life experience of a field within or allied to environmental sciences. Example employers include environmental consultancies, local or national government departments and agencies, research institutions, charities and commercial organisations. We have well-established connections throughout the UK and beyond and will support you through highly competitive application processes to secure you the best possible placement. Positions are usually paid, but the amounts vary.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Your placement year is not taught but offers a wealth of learning opportunities. You’ll reflect on what you gain over the course of the year with support from an academic mentor. You’ll spend 9 to 12 months working for an employer, gaining real-life experience of a field within or allied to environmental sciences. Example employers include environmental consultancies, local or national government departments and agencies, research institutions, charities and commercial organisations. We have well-established connections throughout the UK and beyond and will support you through highly competitive application processes to secure you the best possible placement. Positions are usually paid, but the amounts vary.
Assessment
Your placement year is assessed on a pass-fail basis by reflecting on a project portfolio of the skills and knowledge that you’ve developed and does not count to your final mark.
Structure
Your final year is partly devoted to your independent project, taking up the equivalent of one module per semester. As a student-led project, this allows you to develop highly desirable skills in project management as well as acquiring in-depth knowledge and, where relevant, field and lab skills, all with support from your academic supervisor. As with year two, you’ve full choice for your remaining modules from a range that includes applied and interdisciplinary options such as environmental consultancy, biodiversity conservation and land and water processes. Within this, you’ve the option of taking one second year module if there was something you couldn’t fit into the previous year, and again there is the option to request a relevant module from another School of study. Field courses are self-contained and run in the summer before the academic year.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Year four is partly devoted to your independent project, taking up the equivalent of one module per semester. As a student-led project this allows you to develop highly desirable skills in project management as well as acquiring in-depth knowledge and, where relevant, field and lab skills, all with support from your academic supervisor. Many placement year students base a very successful project on an aspect of their placement. As with year two, you’ve full choice for your remaining modules. Third-year field courses are self-contained and run in the summer either before or after your placement.
Assessment
As for previous taught years, assessment methods vary across modules, and coursework assessment methods may include essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations, posters, and blogs. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback before completing summative work. Aside from the fourth-year independent project, there is no structural difference in assessment across the years of the degree, with any variation stemming from your choice of modules. Years two and four are weighted 40:60 to determine your final degree mark.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Contextual offer: BBC including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation, Countryside Management or Animal Management.
Contextual offer: DMM in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation, Countryside Management or Animal Management.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD plus grade B at A level including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics OR DD in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus grade B at A level.
Contextual offer: DD plus grade C at A level including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics OR DD in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus grade C at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus grade BB at A level including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics OR D in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Forensic & Criminal Investigation plus grade BB at A level. The Extended Certificate in Countryside Management is not accepted, however, we will consider the Foundation Diploma in Countryside Management with D alongside A level grade BB.
Contextual offer: D plus grade BC at A level including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics OR D in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Forensic & Criminal Investigation plus grade BC at A level. The Extended Certificate in Countryside Management is not accepted, however, we will consider the Foundation Diploma in Countryside Management with D alongside A level grade BC.
NOTE: For Animal Management we accept Extended Diploma only as content not acceptable for other BTEC suites.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.Access to HE Diploma
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in either Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Science and Design, Surveying & Planning for Construction.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as - https://www.uea.ac.uk/course/undergraduate/bsc-environmental-sciences-with-a-foundation-year
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in either Geography, Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches), Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Scottish Highers
AAABB including grade A Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
ABB including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in either Geography, Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches), Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
The optional residential field courses in the second and third years require a student contribution. You can find details for individual field courses in the module information.
You’re eligible for reduced fees during your placement year. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees pages. There may be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your placement year, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
Employability is embedded in all our modules, helping you develop your career aspirations throughout your course. We work closely with UEA’s Careers Service to help you track and reflect on your activities via the UEA Award. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet employers (including alumni), explore your career options, speak to industry mentors, and apply for internships, volunteering, and exciting graduate jobs.
Our degrees lead to a range of specialist environmental careers in areas such as sustainable environmental management, biodiversity conservation, renewable energy, carbon reduction, catchment management, weather forecasting, geophysics, natural hazard analysis, risk management, and teaching and education.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Environmental consultant
- Land surveyor
- Conservation officer
- Meteorologist
- Environmental policy advisor
- GIS technician
Discover more on our Careers webpages.