Environmental Earth Science with a Year in Australasia

Environmental Earth Science with a Year in Australasia at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive understanding of the critical natural processes that shape our planet. This undergraduate program combines the core principles of geosciences, environmental studies, and earth sciences to prepare graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, resource management, conservation, and scientific research. Throughout the course, students will explore topics such as geology, climate change, sustainability, hydrology, and geophysics, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through fieldwork, laboratory investigations, and project work. An integral part of the degree is the opportunity to spend a year studying in Australasia, a region renowned for its unique geological features, diverse ecosystems, and environmental challenges. This international placement enhances students’ global perspective, intercultural awareness, and understanding of environmental issues in a real-world context. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, encouraging students to develop critical thinking, data analysis, and problem-solving skills necessary to address complex environmental issues facing society today. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and expert academic staff, students are supported throughout their studies to achieve their academic and professional goals. The combination of rigorous coursework, practical applications, and international experience makes this program ideal for those passionate about understanding and protecting the Earth's environment for future generations. Graduates leave with a solid foundation in earth sciences, an awareness of global environmental challenges, and the skills required to make a positive impact in a rapidly changing world.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 10560 Year (EEA)
• EUR 17480 Year (Non-EEA)

UK/EU £9,000; International £14,900

• English

Course Content

Year 1

You will develop your basic scientific skills with compulsory modules covering mathematics, research and field skills, in addition to Earth science, providing you with a solid foundation to the honours years of your degree.

Year 2

You will develop your Earth science skills through a compulsory research skills module. In addition, you will choose a number of optional modules from the range available. Some options outside the School may be taken, for example a foreign language or, international development studies. Please note that the Year Abroad and Year in Industry are taken between years 2 and 3

Year 3

In the third year you will undertake an independent project under the supervision of a member of faculty which will involve collecting and analysing data, collating and interpreting results and presenting them in oral and written form. Previous students have conducted projects on a vast range of different topics including, for example: volcanic ash, British beaches, earthquake hazard and risk assessment, sandstone variability, sedimentary geochemistry, hydrogeology, and palaeoclimatology. The transferable skills this develops is invaluable in future careers. Alongside this you will have the opportunity to choose modules in your preferred area of the environmental Earth sciences from the wide range available.

Year 4 (MSci only)

During the final year of the integrated Masters programme you will study advanced Masters level modules chosen from the optional range and undertake a substantial piece of independent research under the supervision of a research active member of faculty. MSci projects may include topics such as:

• Palaeohydrology of the Yare River Valley
• Relationships between land use, surface runoff and sediment transport in the Blackwater sub-catchment of the River Wensum
• Fracture patterns in lavas
• Seasonal variation in spring water chemistry
• Quantifying and explaining variation in chalk cliff erosion rates
• A sheet sandstone – record of a catastrophic Jurassic flood?
• Modelling volcanic dome collapse.

Please note that course profiles may be reviewed and changed for future years of study.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 78

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A Level: AAA
• International Baccalaureate: 34 (incl 3HL subjects at grade 6)
• Scottish Highers: AAAAA
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAA
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAAAA
• Access Course: See below
• European Baccalaureate: 85% overall

Students for whom English is a Foreign language

We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:

• IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
• TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
• PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).

If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

Applicants are asked to have at least one science based A2-level or equivalent. Acceptable science subjects include: Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics.
General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 45 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 Science Credits.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of East Anglia.

Environmental Earth Science with Year in Australasia at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive understanding of the Earth's physical processes, environmental challenges, and sustainable solutions. The program combines core scientific principles with practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, resource management, conservation, and policy-making. The course covers essential topics such as geology, meteorology, oceanography, climatology, and environmental monitoring, providing students with a solid foundation in earth sciences. Its distinctive feature is the year spent studying or gaining experience in Australasia, a region known for its unique ecosystems and environmental concerns, which broadens students’ global perspective and practical skills. During this year abroad, students have opportunities to participate in fieldwork, internships, or research projects, engaging directly with local environmental issues in countries like Australia or New Zealand. These experiences enhance understanding of biodiversity, environmental management, and climate change impacts, offering valuable insights that complement classroom learning. The program emphasizes developing analytical skills, scientific writing, data interpretation, and environmental decision-making. Students also learn about the legal, ethical, and social aspects of environmental management, aligning scientific knowledge with real-world applications. The degree prepares graduates for the rapidly evolving environmental sector, supporting careers in environmental assessment, sustainable development, and environmental policy. It also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study or research in earth sciences or related fields. The course is delivered through a blend of lectures, practical sessions, field trips, and independent research, with an emphasis on experiential learning. Connections with industry partners and research organizations offer additional opportunities for placements and networking. Overall, the program aims to produce well-rounded environmental scientists with a global outlook, equipped with the skills to address pressing environmental issues and contribute to sustainable development efforts worldwide.