Environmental Social Sciences

Study mode:On campus Study type:Full-time Languages: English
Local:$ 9 k / Year(s) Foreign:$ 12.5 k / Year(s) Deadline: Jan 15, 2026
StudyQA ranking:10292 Duration:36 months

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The BSc in Environmental Social Sciences at the University of Kent offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationships between humans and the environment. This programme provides students with a comprehensive education that integrates social sciences, environmental studies, and sustainability principles, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address pressing environmental challenges in diverse social contexts. Throughout the course, students will explore key topics such as environmental policy and governance, social theory and environmental justice, climate change, conservation, and the socio-economic factors influencing environmental decision-making. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, encouraging critical thinking, analytical skills, and innovative problem-solving. Students have opportunities to engage in research projects, fieldwork, and internships, fostering experiential learning and real-world understanding. The programme also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and project management, preparing graduates for careers in environmental consultancy, policy development, non-governmental organizations, and international agencies. With access to a vibrant academic community and state-of-the-art facilities, students are encouraged to critically examine the intersections between society and the environment, and to develop sustainable solutions for global and local issues. The programme is suitable for those passionate about environmental sustainability, social justice, and making a positive impact on the world. Graduates will be well-equipped to pursue further study or careers where they can contribute to creating more sustainable, equitable societies worldwide.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee
  • GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
  • GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)
Start date September 2015 Credits (ECTS) 180 ECTS
Duration full-time 36 months Languages Take an IELTS test
  • English
Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Part-time, Full-time Intensity Flexible Part-time variant Flexible More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

DI304 - Economic and Environmental Systems

DI305 - Biodiversity

SA303 - Environmental Issues: Social Science Approaches

SE308 - Skills for Anthropology and Conservation

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

SO539 - Environmental Policy and Practice

SO602 - Social Research Methods

DI528 - Conservation Social Science: Methods and Research Design

DI531 - Human Wildlife Conflict and Resource Competition

EC532 - Environmental Economics, Institutions and Policy

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

SE542 - Human Ecology

SO525 - Environmental Politics

SA519 - The Social Politics of Food

You have the opportunity to select wild modules in this stage

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification Typical offer/minimum requirement

  • A level:ABB
  • GCSE:Mathematics Grade C
  • Access to HE Diploma:The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.
  • BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma):The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.
  • International Baccalaureate:34 overall or 16 at HL including Mathematics 4 at HL or SL

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

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 Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to assist eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 financial support package includes a £6,000 cash bursary spread over the duration of your course. For Ts&Cs and to find out more, visit our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

The Environmental Social Sciences program at the University of Kent offers students an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex interactions between human societies and the environment. This degree explores how social, political, economic, and cultural factors influence environmental issues and how societies can develop sustainable solutions. The program combines coursework in environmental policy, social science theory, human geography, and environmental management, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of environmental challenges from multiple perspectives.

Students engage with a diverse curriculum that addresses pressing topics such as climate change, biodiversity conservation, environmental justice, urban sustainability, and resource management. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical applications, equipping graduates to work effectively in environmental policy, consultancy, advocacy, and research roles. Throughout the course, students have opportunities to participate in fieldwork, seminars, and workshops, enhancing their practical understanding of environmental issues within social contexts.

The program often includes modules that focus on the role of community participation, stakeholder engagement, and governance in environmental decision-making processes. Students are encouraged to critically evaluate current policies and to develop innovative solutions to environmental problems that are socially inclusive and ethically sound.

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies towards specific interests within the environmental social sciences. It may include options for electives and interdisciplinary projects, fostering a broader understanding of global environmental issues and local solutions. Additionally, the program supports research initiatives and offers pathways into postgraduate study or careers in environmental NGOs, governmental agencies, or private sector organizations focused on sustainability.

The University of Kent’s location and network also facilitate collaborations with local communities, environmental organizations, and government bodies, providing students with valuable practical experience and networking opportunities. Career support services and alumni networks further assist graduates in transitioning into relevant employment sectors.

Overall, the Environmental Social Sciences program at the University of Kent prepares students to become informed and effective agents of change, capable of addressing complex environmental challenges through social inquiry, policy analysis, and community engagement. It fosters an understanding of the interconnectedness of social and environmental issues and promotes sustainable development principles that can influence positive societal change on both local and global scales.

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