Environmental Sciences with a Year Abroad

Environmental Sciences with a Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education focused on understanding the natural environment and addressing the complex environmental challenges faced by society today. This programme combines core principles of ecology, geology, chemistry, and environmental policy, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for a career in environmental management, research, conservation, or policy-making. The inclusion of a mandatory year abroad allows students to gain international experience, immerse themselves in different environmental contexts, and develop global perspectives on sustainable development and environmental issues. Throughout the course, students will engage in fieldwork, laboratory research, and data analysis, complemented by opportunities to participate in environmental projects and placements with partner organizations worldwide. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, preparing graduates to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and to contribute meaningfully to tackling environmental challenges. UEA’s strong links with research institutes and industry ensure that students have access to cutting-edge scientific developments and professional networks. The programme also encourages inquiry-based learning, allowing students to explore topics such as climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution control, renewable energy, and environmental policy frameworks. Graduates leave equipped with a solid foundation of scientific understanding, practical skills, and international experience, making them well-positioned for employment in environmental consultancy, government agencies, NGOs, research institutions, and international organizations committed to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The university’s vibrant campus, dedicated academic staff, and excellent facilities support students throughout their academic journey, fostering a dynamic learning environment where future environmental professionals can thrive.

Detailed Course Facts

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

UK/EU £9,000; International £14,900

• English

Course Content

Year 1

This year is designed to demonstrate that the major global environmental challenges facing mankind can be understood and managed only with a broad foundation extending across the physical, biological and social sciences. This multi-subject approach will be an opportunity for you to sample new subjects, to help you decide which topics to pursue later in your degree. It will also develop your scientific and numerical skills.

Year 2

You will have considerable flexibility to tailor your degree according to your interests. You will choose from the substantial range of modules that are spread across thematic areas, including: Earth Sciences and Natural Hazards; Atmospheric and Marine Pollution; Ecology and Conservation; Environmental Management.
Please note that the Year Abroad and Year in Industry are taken between years 2 and 3.

Year 3

Those students on the BSc programme will carry out some original research involving
fieldwork into an environmental topic of their choice, under the supervision of a faculty member who will be an expert in your specialist area of the environmental sciences. This can be one of the most exciting and challenging parts of your degree.

Year 4 (MSci only)

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

• Exploring consequences of biochar incorporation into agricultural soils
• Examining risk communication strategies for natural disasters
• Examining the effects of climate change on coastal biodiversity.

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: AAB
• International Baccalaureate: 33 points
• Scottish Highers: AAABB
• Scottish Advanced Highers: AAB
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AAAABB
• European Baccalaureate: 80%

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.

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, Economics, 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.

The BSc Environmental Sciences with Year Abroad at the University of East Anglia offers students a comprehensive understanding of the natural environment and the challenges it faces in the modern world. This programme is designed to equip students with a broad scientific foundation, combining aspects of biology, chemistry, geology, geography, and environmental management. Through this multidisciplinary approach, students gain insights into ecological systems, environmental processes, and human impacts on the planet.

A distinctive feature of this programme is the Year Abroad component, which provides students with valuable international experience. During the year abroad, students typically have the opportunity to study at partner universities in various countries, engage in fieldwork, or undertake internships related to environmental sciences. This experience enhances cultural awareness, language skills, and professional networks, ultimately enriching the academic journey and improving employability prospects.

The curriculum includes core modules such as environmental chemistry, biodiversity and conservation, climate change, and sustainable development. Students also have the flexibility to choose from a range of optional modules, allowing them to tailor their studies to specific interests like renewable energy, pollution management, or urban environmental planning. Practical skills are emphasized throughout the programme, with lab work, field trips, GIS (Geographical Information Systems), and data analysis integral to the learning experience.

Research plays a key role in the programme, with students encouraged to participate in ongoing projects and collaborate with local environmental agencies. The university’s strong links with industry and the environment sector provide opportunities for placements, work experience, and networking that can be invaluable after graduation.

The teaching approach combines lectures, seminars, tutorials, and practical sessions, supported by the university’s modern facilities, including labs and field stations. Assessment methods include coursework, presentations, exams, and a final year dissertation, which allows students to develop independent research skills.

Graduates of the Environmental Sciences with Year Abroad programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in environmental consultancy, conservation, policy, research, or further postgraduate studies. The programme’s international dimension and practical focus ensure graduates are prepared to address complex environmental issues both locally and globally.

This course benefits from the university’s strong reputation in environmental research and its commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise needed to make a positive impact on the environment.