Environmental Sciences with a Year in Europe

The Environmental Sciences with a Year in Europe program at the University of East Anglia offers a comprehensive and immersive study experience for students passionate about understanding the complex interactions between the natural environment and human activity. This undergraduate degree is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in environmental science principles, including ecology, geology, atmospheric sciences, and environmental policy, while also providing the international perspective crucial in today’s globalized world.

Throughout the course, students will engage in rigorous scientific training, developing skills in data analysis, fieldwork, laboratory techniques, and computer modeling to analyze environmental issues critically. The inclusion of a year abroad in Europe allows students to gain valuable international exposure and firsthand experience of diverse environmental systems and policies across different European countries. This year enhances cultural awareness, language skills, and understanding of regional environmental challenges and solutions.

The program emphasizes practical learning through field trips, research projects, and placements with environmental organizations. These opportunities enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, such as climate change, pollution management, conservation, and sustainable development. The curriculum also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating natural sciences, social sciences, and policy studies to foster a holistic understanding of environmental challenges.

graduates of the program will be well-prepared for careers in environmental consulting, research, policy-making, conservation, and sustainable business. They will possess the critical thinking, scientific skills, and international outlook necessary to contribute effectively to addressing global and local environmental issues. The program’s combination of rigorous academics, practical experience, and international perspective makes it an excellent choice for students aspiring to make a meaningful difference in protecting our planet.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

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

Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 240 ECTS
Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time Intensity Flexible

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.

Year Abroad

At the School of Environmental Sciences, UEA, Norwich we can offer you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend a year of your studies abroad. The year abroad degree programmes are four years in duration. You will spend your first two years at UEA, Norwich. The third year is spent at a university (of your choice) abroad and the fourth and final year is spent back at UEA, Norwich. The overseas placement is subject to satisfactory academic performance during Years 1 and 2. Students on an exchange programme will be expected to pay 15% of their annual tuition fee to UEA during their year abroad and we will pay the overseas university.
The chance to spend a year abroad can be an experience of a lifetime as well as providing you with:

• Travel opportunities
• The opportunity to learn a second language
• The chance to experience different cultures
• The chance to study topics that we cannot provide here at UEA

Students on the European exchange programmes have the option to spend one year of their studies in either France, Spain or Sweden. We currently exchange with the below institutions and these are reviewed regularly. We will do our best to place you at the exchange university of your choice, however if the demand for a particular university exceeds the places available, you will be placed elsewhere. Language training will be provided for you during your second year at UEA, prior to the year in Europe, therefore we do not expect you to obtain a language A-level for admission. We do however ask that all applicants have a GCSE language at Grade B or above (not necessarily French, Spanish or Swedish).
The European universities that students from the School of Environmental Sciences currently visit include:

• Aix-Marseille II University, France
• Josef Fourier University Grenoble, France
• University of Granada, Spain
• Umea University, Sweden
• Uppsala University, Sweden

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL iBT® test : 78

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

take an IELTS test. More About IELTS

Requirements

• A Level: ABB
• International Baccalaureate: 32 (incl 2 HL subjects at grade 6)
• Scottish Highers: AABBB
• Scottish Advanced Highers: ABB
• Irish Leaving Certificate: AABBBB
• Access Course: See below
• European Baccalaureate: 75% 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, Economics, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics.
General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
Students who wish to study at a European university will be required to have achieved a GCSE grade B or above in the language of instruction for the year abroad.

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 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 Science credits. GCSE Grade B in an appropriate Language.

GCSE Offer

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

Students who wish to study at a European university will be required to have achieved a GCSE grade B or above in the language of instruction for the year abroad.

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 Sciences at the University of East Anglia offers a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the natural environment and the human impact on it. The course integrates various disciplines, including ecology, geology, atmospheric science, and policy studies, to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex environmental challenges. The program emphasizes practical experience through fieldwork, laboratory research, and project-based learning, fostering a hands-on approach to environmental problem-solving. Students gain access to state-of-the-art facilities, such as specialized laboratories and research centers, which support advanced investigations into climate change, conservation, and sustainable development. The curriculum is structured to include core modules covering fundamental scientific principles, along with optional modules allowing students to specialize in areas like renewable energy, environmental policy, or marine environments. The university’s strong links with industry and environmental organizations provide excellent opportunities for placements, internships, and collaborative research projects. The program aims to produce graduates capable of working in various sectors, including government agencies, environmental consultancies, non-governmental organizations, and research institutions. Additionally, the course encourages international perspectives, offering opportunities for overseas field trips and exchange programs, enhancing students’ understanding of global environmental issues. The university’s research output in environmental sciences is highly regarded, and students benefit from exposure to cutting-edge research and participation in ongoing projects. Graduates of the program often proceed to postgraduate study or enter the workforce equipped with a robust scientific background, practical skills, and an understanding of policy and management issues affecting the environment worldwide. Overall, the Environmental Sciences with a Year in Europe at UEA provides a balanced education combining theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and real-world experience, making it an excellent choice for students passionate about making a positive impact on the environment.