BSc – Environmental Sciences

Environmental Sciences

Award: Bachelor of Science (BSc)

Duration: 4 years

Introduction

Environmental Science is a quintessential interdisciplinary scientific field with teaching and research goals of understanding Earth’s dynamic history and processes that integrate the four terrestrial spheres: lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere for responsible stewardship of the Earth and her natural resources. Environmental Science provides a quantitative and qualitative approach to the study of human-environment interactions and their impacts as well as the concept of sustainability.

Why is this Course for Me?

Environmental scientists work on subjects like the understanding of Earth processes, evaluating alternative energy systems, pollution control and mitigation, natural resource management, and the effects of global climate change. Environmental issues almost always include an interaction of physical and biological processes with human impacts and development. Environmental Scientists bring a systems approach to the analysis of environmental problems. Key elements of an effective environmental scientist include the ability to relate space and time relationships as well as quantitative analysis.

What Will I Study?

The programme will offer you analytical and practical skills in a range of areas including pollution and control, ecosystems, urbanization, population dynamics, environmental management and the management of biodiversity.

The Modules You Will Study Include:

• Introduction to Biophysical Environments
• Environmental microbiology
• Ecosystems ecology
• Environmental impact assessment
• Global Climate & Environmental Change
• Natural Resource Management
• Environmental pollution and remediation
• Remote Sensing & Geographic Information Systems
• Soils and geomorphology
• Climate modelling
• Water Resource and Hydrology
• Environmental law and policy
• Research methods
• Palaeopedology and Quaternary environments
• Waste management
• Research Project (final year)

Career and Graduate Study Opportunities

A degree in Environmental Science will pave the way for many careers opportunities both in academia and industry. These include jobs in Ecology Sustainability, Green Living, Atmospheric Science, Environmental Chemistry, Nature Conservation, Tourism as well as management of contaminated sites (e.g. illegal dumping sites, abandoned mines, mine tailings, etc.). As many countries move toward cleaner energy choices, and sustainable development, Environmental Science is a career field that is poised to grow larger and stronger with each passing year.