Environmental Science

Environmental science is concerned with understanding the natural systems of the planet and the ways in which human activity is altering them. It is an inherently interdisciplinary field, drawing on ecology, chemistry, geology, hydrology, atmospheric science, and human geography to examine questions that range from local pollution and habitat degradation to global climate change and biodiversity loss. At a time when environmental issues are at the top of policy agendas worldwide, well-trained environmental scientists are in growing demand across government agencies, consultancies, research organisations, and NGOs.

At the University of Northampton, this programme is offered with a foundation year, making it a four-year degree in total. The foundation year provides a structured and supported entry into higher education, developing the academic skills and scientific foundations needed to engage fully with the degree curriculum. This is particularly helpful if you are approaching university from a non-traditional educational background or want additional time to develop your confidence before tackling the full degree content.

As you move through the programme, you will study the physical and biological aspects of environmental systems, environmental chemistry, ecology, environmental impact assessment, sustainability, and the policy and management frameworks through which society tries to protect and restore natural environments. Northampton's East Midlands location gives access to a range of natural environments, from waterways to farmland and urban green spaces, that provide contexts for fieldwork and applied study.

Graduates in environmental science go on to careers in environmental consultancy, government agencies such as the Environment Agency and local authority environmental teams, conservation organisations, water and waste management, renewable energy, environmental monitoring, and education. Some pursue postgraduate study in environmental science, ecology, sustainability, or environmental management. The combination of scientific understanding, analytical skills, and awareness of environmental policy that the degree develops is valuable across a wide range of roles in the growing green economy.