COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc Environmental Science degree at Aberystwyth University combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to prepare students for addressing the environmental challenges of today and the future. In the first year, students gain foundational knowledge in earth surface environments, fieldwork techniques, genetics, evolution, microbial and plant diversity, and planetary processes, alongside developing essential research and data analysis skills. In the second year, students build on this foundation with modules in research design, data visualisation, and applied environmental topics such as aquatic botany, climate change impacts on plants and animals, environmental geochemistry, wildlife surveying, marine biology, and microbiology, allowing them to develop both scientific expertise and professional skills. The third year focuses on applying knowledge through an independent dissertation and offers options including environmental management, biogeochemistry, climate science debates, regulation and consultancy, biodiversity conservation, freshwater and marine field courses, sustainable land management, urban resilience, and volcanic hazards. The degree emphasizes hands-on experience in field and laboratory settings, enabling students to observe, measure, and analyse ecological and geological systems. Graduates acquire scientific understanding, research competence, and transferable skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, equipping them for careers in environmental consultancy, conservation, policy-making, research, and sustainability-focused roles across diverse sectors.