Environmental Science

Environmental science is the interdisciplinary study of the natural world and the ways in which human activity interacts with and transforms it. It draws on biology, chemistry, earth sciences, ecology, and social science to address questions that are among the most pressing of our time: how do ecosystems function and how are they being degraded, what are the mechanisms of pollution and what can be done about it, how does climate change affect different environments, and how can land, water, and biodiversity be managed sustainably? It is a degree with both scientific rigour and genuine urgency.

At Hull this four-year full-time programme includes study abroad, giving you the opportunity to engage with environmental science in a different ecological and regulatory context and to develop an international perspective on the environmental challenges that require global cooperation. The programme is accredited by the Institute of Environmental Sciences, a professional recognition that attests to its quality and relevance to environmental practice. You will develop practical, field, and analytical skills alongside the theoretical knowledge needed to understand and address real environmental problems, including fieldwork in the varied environments accessible from Hull, laboratory analysis, data interpretation, and the communication skills needed to present findings to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Environmental science graduates work in environmental consultancy, the water industry, local authorities, national parks, environmental charities and NGOs, government agencies, and research institutions. Roles include environmental consultant, ecological surveyor, environmental scientist, policy adviser, and sustainability manager. The accreditation by the Institute of Environmental Sciences supports professional development and recognition.

Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in environmental science, ecology, conservation biology, climate science, or environmental management, deepening their expertise in a particular domain.