Start Date
- September 2024, Full Time
Summary
If you love geography or biology at GCSE or have a keen interest in sustainability, then studying A level Environmental Science will appeal to you. This course will deepen your understanding of the complex relationship humans have with the natural world, such as their need for resources like food and minerals but the finite nature of these and how modern technologies could help produce more sustainable lifestyles.
Entry Requirements
GCSE English Language, GCSE Maths and either GCSE Biology or GCSE Chemistry must have been achieved at a minimum of grade 5. If the trilogy GCSE Science has been taken, then a minimum of 5,5 must have been achieved.
Applicants should also meet the overall Sixth Form entry requirements.
Learning Outcomes
Year 1
The Living environment – you will learn how conditions on Earth allowed life to develop and survive, how these conditions have changed and how these are monitored. You will also study the biodiversity of different environments from the coral reefs and mangroves to Antarctica, the threats to these environments and how they are conserved.
The physical environment – this unit focuses on human interactions with the environment. You learn about renewable and non-renewable resources; from the atmosphere to the hydrosphere, how these resources are exploited and how they could be managed in a more sustainable way
Year 2
Energy resources – you learn about how energy sources, like coal, are important in economic development, the challenges created as energy resources change and how developments in renewable technology will increasingly provide more sustainable energy.
Pollution – you learn about different pollutants and how they cause environmental change. You will learn how we can minimise current problems and reduce future ones.
Biological resources – you will develop an understanding of the challenges of providing food, fuel and energy and how this could be done sustainably.
Assessment
This is a 2 year course assessed through 2X3 hour exams at the end of the second year. There is no coursework. Students can also expect weekly homework and regular assessments. Feedback is given to support students’ progress.
Progression
Physical and biological sciences are among the 10 most popular courses at UK universities; the UEA being among the top 5 universities for environmental science research. This course would provide a good foundation for further study in the subject or other sciences. Furthermore, Environmental Science is accepted as one A-level for many degree level courses in biological sciences field. This subject could combine well with a wide range of other courses from science and geography to law and business.
Career Progression
Environmental science can lead to a variety of careers including conservation or environmental management or education.
Fees
If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16-18 on the 31st August before the start of your course, tuition fees are free. If you are aged 19 and over please contact the Advice Shop.
