Course overview

Course overview

The world is under huge environmental threat. From climate change and depletion of resources to species extinction - we need to find solutions to counter the devastating impact humans are having on the planet. Our applied programme will provide you with an understanding of environment and sustainability from both the natural science (scientific theories that explain how the world around us works) and social science (e.g. politics) perspectives. This will ensure you have a broad knowledge base and are conversant with strategies to move sustainability forward in many different contexts.

Year one

The first year of the programme is carefully designed to bring together the diverse learning experiences across the cohort, enabling common understanding of environment and sustainability issues. Core first year modules will examine topics such as the environmental and social responsibilities of organisations to green their operations, the politics of sustainability and the causes and impacts of climate change. To ensure you have the appropriate skills to succeed on this programme, we have embedded a 'core skills' module into your first year. To support your theoretical learning you will gain general study skills and subject-specific practical skills - including fieldwork in both laboratory and field-based environments.

Year two

In year two you will develop an understanding of more advanced topics such as human impact on the environment and the structure of rules, practices, and processes used to direct and manage a company.

Work placement

Employability is at the heart of our curriculum and we aim to equip you with the necessary theory and practice to support your graduate journey. You will spend your third year gaining first-hand experience of the work place environment in a role highly relevant to the degree. Work experience in your area of interest will not only demonstrate your commitment and passion, but will also enable you to make meaningful connections by networking with experts in the field. You may source your own placement to suit future career aspirations and interests, or take advantage of our links with placement providers.

Year three

Your studies will culminate with the opportunity to unleash your creativity and apply the techniques you have acquired during your studies. You will work on a real-world sustainability project, final year dissertation, clean technology research and have the flexibility to personalise your learning and degree title with a variety of optional modules.

Fieldwork

From mapping habitats and sampling invertebrates to social science approaches, fieldwork and engaging with outside people's perspectives is embedded into core modules throughout your studies to ensure you graduate with key sustainability research skills.

Fieldwork activities may include:

• Environmental survey design
• Plant and invertebrate identification
• Water quality assessment
• Soil assessment
• Sample collection and preservation
• Social science research techniques

Learn from our campus - our own 'living laboratory'

Our unique 600-acre campus offers a fantastic experimentation environment to perform fieldwork, test new ideas and discover solutions to real-world problems. From our lake system and extensive woodlands to the mining and industrial heritage of the local area, there are many opportunities to study in an authentic environment whilst practicing sustainably. 

Support

We offer a multi layered support structure to help you meet your academic and personal needs. Our open-door policy enables you to engage with us directly, meaning you can seek support, gain feedback or discuss any matters on a regular basis. You will also benefit from the support of an assigned academic mentor and a member of staff from Keele's Student Experience and Support team.

Societies

We have a wealth of student-led societies at Keele which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society related to the field, is a great opportunity to continue to develop your skills away from your studies. This is another excellent way of demonstrating your genuine interest for the area and can be beneficial when it comes to applying for graduate roles.

Related Courses

This programme is available as either a Single Honours or Combined Honours degree.
If you're interested in the Combined Honours route through Environmental Science, you may also consider taking Environmental Science through our BSc/MSci Natural Sciences programme.
This allows you to combine your interests in environmental science, multiple additional sciences, and interdisciplinary practice within the structure of a Single Honours degree programme.