Environmental Science

Environmental science is the interdisciplinary study of how the natural world functions and how human activities are changing it. It draws on biology, chemistry, geology, physics, and the social sciences to address questions about pollution, climate change, biodiversity, resource use, and the management of natural systems. Where more specialised disciplines focus on one dimension of the environment, environmental science takes an integrative approach, recognising that environmental problems require understanding of the interactions between physical, chemical, biological, and human processes.

This breadth makes it directly relevant to the challenges of sustainable development that define the coming decades.

At the University of Reading, this three-year full-time degree includes a foundation year and a sandwich year with work placement opportunities. The foundation year provides a supported entry route for students who would benefit from additional preparation before the main degree content, while the sandwich year and placements give you extended professional experience in environmental organisations alongside your studies. You will develop knowledge of ecology and ecosystems, atmospheric and climate science, soil and water science, pollution monitoring and remediation, and the policy and regulatory frameworks governing environmental management.

Field and laboratory skills are central to the programme, and you will develop both the practical competencies and the analytical methods needed to address environmental problems in professional contexts.

Graduates work in environmental consultancy, the Environment Agency and Natural England, local authorities, conservation organisations, water companies, the energy sector, planning and development, and academic and government research. The sandwich placement provides direct professional experience that supports early career development in a sector where practical competence is as important as academic knowledge. Further study options include postgraduate degrees in environmental science, ecology, climate science, environmental management, and related disciplines.