Environmental Science
Environmental science is the multidisciplinary study of the natural world and the ways in which human activity affects it. Drawing on ecology, chemistry, biology, geology, and geography, it examines the processes that sustain ecosystems, the impacts of pollution, land use change, and climate change, and the scientific basis for environmental management and policy. At a time when environmental challenges are among the most pressing issues facing governments, businesses, and communities, environmental scientists are in increasing demand across a wide range of professional contexts.
At the University of the Highlands and Islands, this programme is offered on a part-time basis and includes a year in industry, making it accessible to students who need flexibility while also providing direct professional experience. UHI is uniquely placed to offer environmental science: the Highlands and Islands of Scotland are home to some of the most ecologically significant and scenically dramatic environments in Europe, from peat bogs and ancient woodlands to marine habitats and mountain ecosystems, and studying here means engaging with real environmental systems of remarkable complexity and importance. You will develop skills in ecological surveying, environmental monitoring, data analysis, GIS, and the interpretation and communication of environmental evidence.
The year in industry is a significant feature of the programme, giving you direct experience of working in an environmental science or management role and developing the professional skills that employers expect. This combination of academic learning and professional experience is particularly valuable in an applied field. Graduates go on to careers in environmental consultancy, conservation, ecology, environmental regulation, land management, water quality monitoring, and policy.
Further postgraduate study in environmental science, ecology, or conservation biology is also a well-established route for those who want to develop specialist expertise or progress into research.