About this course

Develop the advanced knowledge and skills needed to tackle present and future environmental issues. On our innovative and rewarding 4-year master's in Environmental Science you'll have more options for fieldwork and will produce an advanced research project. You'll also take a work placement with professional environmental practitioners.

The Environmental Science master's degree provides an interdisciplinary approach to solving our environmental challenges. It combines subjects, such as geography, ecology, law and oceanography and consists of theory with practical and project work.

At the start of the course, you'll choose one of 4 specialist pathways. This will give you control over your degree and career route. You can change your pathway at the end of the first year.

You can choose to specialise in:

Aquatic Environments and Resources
Environmental Change
Biodiversity and Conservation
Sustainable Environmental Management

Our wide range of fieldwork will give you the skills to collect and analyse data. Previous field trips have used drones for remote sensing and studied salt marsh vegetation.

As part of this course you can:

use computer-based geographical information systems
use specialist facilities including a purpose-built teaching lab and remote sensing equipment
learn to apply quantitative analysis and field research techniques
undertake advanced research projects
boost your skills and employability with a work-based learning module
join our award-winning Enactus society
choose to spend a year in employment

We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.

Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).

Accreditations

Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES)

Course location

This course is based at Highfield.

Awarding body

This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.

Download the Course Description Document

The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.

ODT

Download 2023-24 Course Description Document

Entry requirements

Academic year filter options

A-levels

AAB including one acceptable science subject

A-levels additional information

Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. An acceptable science is Geography , Biology , Chemistry , Physics , Mathematics , Psychology , Geology , Environmental Science (but not Environmental Studies)

A-levels with Extended Project Qualification

If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: ABB including one acceptable science subject and grade A in the EPQ

A-levels contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme: ABB including one acceptable science subject

or

International Baccalaureate Diploma

Pass, with minimum 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level to include one acceptable science subject at Higher Level scoring a minimum of 5

International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information

An acceptable science is Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Psychology, Geology, Environmental Science (but not Environmental Studies)

International Baccalaureate contextual offer

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement

Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.

or

BTEC

D in BTEC National Extended Certificate plus grades A A from two 'A' levels to include one acceptable science subject DD in BTEC National Diploma plus grade A from one acceptable science A-Level subject,

RQF BTEC

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

Additional information

BTEC qualifications must be accompanied by one acceptable science 'A' level. An acceptable science is Geography , Biology , Chemistry , Physics , Mathematics , Psychology , Geology , Environmental Science (but not Environmental Studies)

QCF BTEC

D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AA from two A-levels to include one acceptable science subject

We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.

or

Entry requirements filter options

Other requirements

GCSE requirements

Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) and Mathematics at minimum grade 4/C.

A-levels

This course is suspended for 2025/26 entry.

or

Entry requirements filter options

Other requirements

Got a question?

Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Course structure

You'll take both core modules in environmental science and specialist modules related to your chosen pathway.

Your specialist pathways options are:

Aquatic Environments and Resources - exploring how humans, water and aquatic ecosystems interact
Environmental Change - studying past and present environmental change, both locally and globally
Biodiversity and Conservation - focus on the diversity of living organisms and their relationship with the environment
Sustainable Environmental Management - discover the scientific principles, theories and methods used to resolve environmental problems in sustainable ways

In your third and fourth years, you'll specialise with more optional modules, a work placement and research projects.

Year 1 overview

All students will take compulsory modules and learn about:

the principles of environmental science
ecology and conservation
quantitative research methods
practical skills needed for fieldwork

Your remaining modules will depend on your chosen pathway. They include:

marine ecology and evolution
dynamic landscapes
earth systems

You'll also take a residential trip to boost your knowledge and critical skills, and help you bond with other students.

You can choose to change your specialism pathway at the end of the first year.

Year 2 overview

All students will take core modules and study:

pollution
how to assess environmental impact
geographic information systems (GIS)
literature review and research skills

For your specialist pathway module, you'll look at one of these topics:

population ecology
freshwater ecosystems
impact of global climate change
geohazards and earth resources

You'll choose your remaining modules from a wide range of options.

You'll take a UK-based residential field course to develop your research skills while avoiding the high carbon emissions associated with flying.

Year 3 overview

You'll complete a research project, with support from a supervisor in your chosen area. Previous projects have included:

Ecosystem services from coastal defence projects.
The effect of multiple microplastic types on plants and soils.
Evaluating best practice for reptile translocation programmes in the UK.
Autogeddon or urban heaven: environmental and social effects of the automotive industry from launch to present.
Green walls and urban biodiversity: Collins, R (MEnvSci student), Schaafsma, M and and Hudson, M. - The value of green walls to urban biodiversity, 2017, Land Use Policy , 64 , 114—123.
An investigation into the application of spent coffee grounds using waste-to-energy methodology: Mayson, S. (MEnvSci student) and Williams, I.D. (2021) - Applying a circular economy approach to valorize spent coffee grounds, 2021, Resources Conservation & Recycling, 172, 105659.
Consumer behaviours on the release of home entertainment waste electrical and electronic equipment into the circular economy: Wilkinson, A.Y. (MEnvSci student) and Williams, I.D - Why do (W)EEE hoard? The effect of consumer behaviour on the release of home entertainment products into the circular economy, 2020, Detritus, 12, 18-33.

You'll study environmental law and management, and learn advanced quantitative methods.

You'll also choose modules from a wide range of options, with topics like:

marine fisheries
human-caused global change
glaciers and glaciation
sustainability as a profession

Year 4 overview

You'll also complete a work placement of at least 4 weeks, where you'll work with professional environmental practitioners. Recent placements have included NGOs such as WWF, and businesses such as Ramboll.

The experience will show you how to apply the theory you've learnt in your first 3 years. The timing of the placement is flexible.

You'll complete an advanced research project, and receive training in how to design, implement and report a substantial piece of research.

This will give you transferable skills in:

experimental design and development
laboratory and fieldwork
data analysis and interpretation
technical writing and reporting

You'll also choose advanced optional modules to develop your knowledge in your specialist area.

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Modules

The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.

For entry in academic year 2024 to 2025

You must study the following modules in year 1:

Earth and Ocean System

An introduction to the fundamental processes which determine the environment of the Earth and the general functioning of the Earth as a system.

Ecology and Conservation

This module introduces students to the main branches of ecology by considering the various levels at which the subject may be studied: individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems. The aim of the practical sessions is to demonstrate how profession...

Environmental Field Techniques and Applications

This module is designed to provide you with hands-on experience of a wide range of contemporary environmental issues and techniques, and an understanding of how we make use of data to answer environment related research questions. The module is primarily ...

Environmental Science: Concepts and Communication

This module focuses on environmental issues across a range of themes and provides a focal point for the first year of the undergraduate Environmental Science programmes, in terms of knowledge and understanding, and study skills. The module considers knowl...

Exploring Urban and Natural Environments

Explorers visit and observe different places in order to further understand the physical and cultural phenomena they encounter. This module will introduce you to methods enabling you to explore physical and human environments, in order to collect data wh...

Geographies of Risk

The module will explore risk, hazard, exposure, vulnerability, resilience, and sustainability, all in the context of climate change: how these concepts relate to the Earth's physical and ecological systems, and to cultural and socio-economic structures of...

Introduction to Marine Ecology and Evolution

Quantitative Methods

You will be introduced to a number of key statistical concepts and data presentation formats. Beginning with exposure to a variety of data types defining the nature and properties of data you are likely to encounter. Emphasis is placed on distinguishing b...

The Earth System

The module will look at the challenges posed to human societies living on a dynamic planet and how these societies adapt (or not) to a range of environmental and socio-economic hazards. Pre-requisite for GEOG2006 One of the pre-requisites for GEOG...

Learning and assessment

The learning activities for this course include the following:

lectures
classes and tutorials
coursework
individual and group projects
independent learning (studying on your own)

How you'll spend your course time:

Study time

Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:

31%

Scheduled learning & teaching

69%

Independent learning

How we'll assess you

coursework, laboratory reports and essays
creative projects
debates
design and problem-solving exercises
developing websites
dissertations
individual and group projects
oral presentations
module journals
written and practical exams

Your assessment breakdown

Year 1:

63%

Written exam

26%

Coursework

11%

Practical exam

Academic support

You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.

Course leader

Simon Kemp is the course leader.

Careers

As an MEnvSci in Environmental Science graduate, you'll have many career fields available. These could include:

carbon management
biodiversity
water management
environmental consultancy
sustainability strategy and policy
nature conservation
waste management

Recent graduates are pursuing a career in environmental science at organisations including:

DEFRA
Environment Agency
Natural England
Ordnance Survey
Ramboll
Universities, in environment and sustainability roles
Wildlife trusts
WWF

Throughout your degree, you'll benefit from guest speakers from industry, government and environment groups. We have connections with many organisations such as the Environment Agency, DEFRA, AECOM and The Wildlife Trust. Together we will help you build your networks and prepare you for your next steps after graduation.

Our students play an important part in the University's award-winning Enactus society. It is a global non-profit organisation that helps improve the lives of people around the world.

Careers services at Southampton

We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:

work experience schemes
CV and interview skills and workshops
networking events
careers fairs attended by top employers
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.

Work in industry

This degree includes a placement with an environmental organisation between the third and fourth year.

However, you can also boost your employability by spending a paid year in employment in the industry of your choice between years 2 and 3, or between years 3 and 4.

This is a great opportunity to:

apply your skills and knowledge in a real industry setting
try out a potential career
demonstrate personal development to future employers

Fees, costs and funding

Tuition fees

Fees for a year's study:

UK students pay £9,250.
EU and international students pay £27,400.

Your fees will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and standard exams.

Find out how to:

Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.

Explore:

Bursaries, scholarships and other funding

If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.

If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.

Get in touch for advice about student money matters.

Scholarships and grants

You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies.

We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.

Support during your course

The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.

Funding for EU and international students

Find out about funding you could get as an international student.

How to apply

When you apply use:

UCAS course code: F902
UCAS institution code: S27

Apply for this course

What happens after you apply?

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

predicted grades
academic achievements
personal statement
academic reference

We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000

Related courses

Environmental Science (MEnvSci) is a course in the Geography and environmental science subject area. Here are some other courses within this subject area:

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BSc