Course content

During your Biology and Environmental Science degree, you’ll learn how humans relate to the natural environment, and how to address some of the biggest threats to the world’s environmental and ecological systems.

You’ll consider the complexity of biological processes and mechanisms at molecular, cellular, organismal and ecosystem levels, exploring related philosophical and ethical issues.Through the Environmental Science course you will supplement your biology background with a foundation in the sciences of geology and chemistry and their application to environmental management. You’ll sample, record and analyse data in the field and in our excellent labs, developing practical and field work skills in different environments, as well as experience in utilising Geographic Information Systems. At the same time you will learn how biology and environmental science can help to improve the quality and sustainability of life.

Topical environmental issues (such as conservation, habitat management, biodiversity loss and climate change) require a strong understanding of how humans interact with the natural environment, and how we impact on different ecosystems. You’ll explore aspects of science such as biodiversity, evolution and biological processes, but you will also consider debates around genetic crop modification, nutrient loss and food security.

This programme is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES). Students enrolled on IES accredited programmes may apply for Student Membership of the institution. This programme is also accredited by the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment (IEMA). Students on IEMA accredited programmes may apply for free Student Membership of the IEMA which provides a range of benefits.

Variations to 2020/21 courses

Entry requirements

The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the likely offer or range of offers which would be made to candidates along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate’s application. Read more about our undergraduate entry requirements for United Kingdom, European Union and International students.

A Level requirements

• A Level requirement ABC/BBB
• To include 1 science A level (Biology, Human Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Geography, Environmental Science, Applied Science, Statistics, Sports Science and Psychology)

If you don't think you'll meet the entry requirements specified, you may be able to gain entry to this course with 64 UCAS points via a Foundation Year.

GCSE requirements

• Maths at C (or 4)
• English C (or 4)

BTEC

• BTEC requirements DDM in a Science based subject. You must also have taken sufficient Science credits, please contact us for advice.

If you don't think you'll meet the entry requirements specified, you may be able to gain entry to this course with 64 UCAS points via a Foundation Year.

International Baccalaureate

• 32 points to include Higher Level Science at 6 or above.

Access to HE Diploma requirements

• Obtain Access to HE Diploma with 122 UCAS Tariff points including a minimum of 30 L3 credits at Distinction. You must also have taken sufficient Science credits, please contact us for advice.

Please note

*     Reformed GCSE grades for England are stated in brackets
**   Science practical only required from applicants taking reformed A level Biology, Chemistry or Physics in England
*** If applicant has not had opportunity to sit AS level in England, please contact the Admissions team

PREPARATION PROGRAMMES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

International students who do not meet the direct entry requirements for this course have the opportunity to study an International Foundation Year programme.

These courses are designed to prepare international students to enter into Keele University undergraduate degrees.

Foundation year

You may choose to study this course via foundation year.

If you’re returning to education following a break, wish to study a new subject or don’t have the grades or sufficient equivalent experience for direct entry to this course, a foundation year may be a good option for you.

Following successful completion (including any additional progression requirements) of the foundation year you can progress on to this course.

The foundation year offers September starts across all subjects, and January starts across all science, humanities, social sciences and business routes.

The January intake excludes the Veterinary Medicine and Surgery degree with Foundation Year and other health-related foundation Year degree

For more details visit our foundation year webpages.

Foundation year

Foundation year content

Fees and funding

Going to university can be a daunting as well as an exciting experience. It can be difficult to understand the true costs of being a student, as well as the financial support that is available to help you meet those costs.

We can help you to manage your funds, create a budget and ensure that you receive any funding for which you may be eligible. We also offer financial support such as the Keele University Hardship Fund and emergency loans.

For more information visit our money, advice and guidance section.

Career prospects

96% of Keele graduates were in a job or further study within six months of graduating (DLHE, 2017)

Environmental Science and Biology are interrelated disciplines which are highly relevant to many of the issues facing society today. This means that graduates with this blend of skills are in demand from a wide range of employers. You could choose a career in conservation, or in environmental management or consultancy. Alternatively you might decide to work as a research scientist or to continue your studies at postgraduate level.

With a degree in Biology and Environmental Science you will be in an excellent position for employment in environmental consultancy and regulation, water resource management, geospatial analysis, conservation, quality control in the food industry, the pharmaceutical industry or as a scientific writer, research scientist or teacher. The programme also provides excellent training for further postgraduate study and research. If you take our work placement year, you’ll graduate with the advantage of a significant level of work experience in biology, or the environmental sector, to take to potential employers.

To make sure you’re prepared for a range of work, the course utilises real world case studies including environmental impact assessments and technical reports mimicking work in different areas of employment.

Accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences.

Recent employers

Our graduates have gone on to work at:

• Boots
• Higher Education Providers
• ESF Consultants
• LGC
• Bentley
• NHS
• United Utilities
• Education First
• Mott MacDonald Bentley
• LGSS

Regardless of which career you pursue after Keele, employers will want evidence of the range of skills and personal qualities you possess and which are required for the job. Your degree is clearly important in this respect but don’t forget the extra-curricular activities, positions of responsibility, jobs and voluntary work you may have been engaged in while studying at Keele. These activities allow you to demonstrate the skills and personal qualities required by employers and will be vital in your attempts to secure graduate employment.

It is estimated that 60% of jobs are open to graduates of any discipline. This demonstrates the flexibility of many graduate employers when setting out their academic requirements and that students are not necessarily restricted to careers related to their degree.

Find out more about our careers and employability services, including career planning, alumni mentoring, jobs, internships, starting your own business and much more.