BSc (Hons) Environmental Science

Entry year:
2025/26
Start date:
September
Study mode:
Full-time
Course duration:
3 years FullTime, 4 years Placement year
Campus:
City
UCAS Code:
SENS
Grades/points required:
BCC-BBC (104-112)

Why study Environmental Science at LJMU?

  • The course covers the major challenges currently facing the environment and solutions to tackle them
  • Fieldwork, completed both in the UK and overseas, is integral to the course, with field trips to Greece, the Lake District, North Wales and the North West coast included in fees*
  • Access to state-of-the-art computing facilities and analytical equipment
  • Prepares you for a career in the expanding green jobs employment sector, with excellent employment opportunities 
  • Taught by experienced research-active staff across the School of Biological and Environmental Sciences
  • Focus on skill acquisition via practical workshops and field learning
  • Options to undertake work placements of 4-6 weeks and/or a 12 month sandwich year
  • Options to study abroad for part of the degree with support from the Go Citizen Scheme
  • This degree is available to study following a foundation year
This course is also available as a Foundation Year
99% of graduates are in full-time work within a year
Study abroad at 100+ partner universities worldwide
2,000+ PCs and loan laptops on campus

About your course

The environment is currently facing major challenges, such as climate change, pollution and decreasing biodiversity. Studying the BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science will allow you to investigate the challenges we are facing and learn how to tackle these pressing issues for future populations.

Exploring the way in which our physical environment develops and how humans affect natural processes and interact within the world form the basis of the course. This is a highly practical programme that provides you with ample background and practical knowledge for understanding environmental processes and interactions. It also offers plenty of opportunities to apply your knowledge in practical contexts. Fieldwork, completed both in the UK and overseas, is integral to the course, with field trips to Greece, the Lake District, North Wales and the North West coast included in fees.

This programme will provide you with the skills and knowledge to address these issues, and prepare you for entry into the expanding green jobs employment sector. You will acquire skills and knowledge through practical learning and use of LJMUs state-of-the-art facilities, such as Geographical Information Systems facilities and analytical equipment.

Course modules

What you will study on this degree

Further guidance on modules

Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.

Core modules

Ecology
20 credits

This module provides you with a basic understanding of ecology and ecological characteristics of a range of habitats. You will study basic concepts, such as species and succession, communities and ecosystems, biotic and abiotic elements, nutrient cycling, populations and diversity and adaptations of organisms to their environment. Part of this will be achieved through field visits to a range of habitats.

Methods Skills and Careers 1
20 credits

The aim of this module is to provide you with practical experience in the methods employed by geographers to collect, statistically analyse, present and interpret primary and secondary data. You will develop quantitative and qualitative practical skills, as well as observational skills and be introduced to self reflection on personal and academic development.

Earth Systems
20 credits

This module will provide you with an introduction to the Earth from a geographical perspective and explores how the various global systems are linked and interact with one another.

Hazards
20 credits

This module introduces a range of natural, anthropogenic and cascading hazards, including pollution, flooding, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, wildfires, pandemics, heatwaves and human conflicts, etc. The causes and impacts from these hazards to the physical and human environment are explored, along with the latest adaptation and mitigation strategies used.

Environment Society and Sustainability
20 credits

Within this module, you will examine the relationship between environment, society and sustainability in the context of increasing concerns about human impacts on the environment. You will focus on issues in relationship to population, economic growth, resource use and distribution and social welfare in order to outline different scientific, technological, social and political approaches to handling 'real world' issues.

Methods Skills and Careers 2
20 credits

This module will provide you with practical skills in the methods used by geographers to collect, present and interpret primary and secondary data. You will develop both quantitative and qualitative practical skills and field based observational skills.

Core modules

GIS and Employability
20 credits

This module aims to inform research, inquiry and communication through development of geographical skills and provide you with increased professional and subject specific understanding. It will also introduce you to Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and key methods of data and database management.

Environmental Pollution
20 credits

This module will introduce the processes that drive the functioning of two major (terrestrial and marine) environments of the Earth with a view to their deeper understanding, evaluation and management. You will develop an appreciation and assessment of capabilities of the environmental impact of humans (e.g. pollution, deforestation, ocean acidification) on natural environments and ecosystems. You will develop skills in acquiring, processing and interpreting environmental data.

Optional Modules

Ecology Field Skills
20 credits

In this module you will examine different standardised methods used for ecological censuses and surveys in the UK. Field experience is provided and different sampling techniques are dealt with in depth during lectures and during fieldwork, with the aim of explaining the quantitative framework on which they are based in addition to providing practical experience of their execution in the field. You will also learn how to digitise spatial data and produce maps using GIS which you will then use to analyse spatial data on habitat and vegetation features.

Wildlife and Ecosystem Management
20 credits

This module is an advanced course in general ecology and wildlife population management and seeks to draw linkages between populations and biogeochemical cycles. This is placed within the context of applied wildlife and ecosystem management by using a mix of case studies, workshops, and fieldtrips to a site managed and restored for wildlife or wider ecosystem functioning.

Conservation Practice
20 credits

This module introduces you to conservation practice and management through largely field based activities on sites of conservation protection or importance. The module is developed to work alongside conservation practice organisation. You will gain knowledge on development and implementation of conservation management plans, protected area designation and other conservation practices such as habitat restoration and agri-environment schemes.

Marine and Freshwater Biology
20 credits

This module provides a broad introduction to fundamental aspects of marine and freshwater biology, including basic oceanography, limnology and productivity in the marine and freshwater environment. Different marine and freshwater habitat types found in various parts of the world are introduced, and their biological (e.g. ecology, animal behaviour) and physical characteristics are discussed. The exploitation and conservation of these ecosystems are also considered.

International Environments
20 credits

The aim of this module is to facilitate your understanding and evaluation of processes in global environments through an international field class examining, recording, interpreting and evaluating field evidence in a range of natural and anthropogenic landscapes. It will also provide an opportunity to identify the diversity of culture in the wider international context. You will be able to develop an understanding of spatial and temporal variation and themes around sustainability across geographical studies.

Environmental Science Sandwich Year
120 credits

This module will enable you to carry out an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give you the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to your programme of study as well as the attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment.

Study Semester Abroad - Environmental Science
60 credits

This module allows students to replace one semester of their LJMU programme with a semester of full-time study at an approved overseas partner institution

Study Year Abroad - Environmental Science
120 credits

This module aims to provide you with an additional year of study at an approved overseas partner that will complement your programme at LJMU.

Cryosphere, Catchments and Oceans
20 credits

This module will provide students with an appreciation of fundamental processes that operate in(and link) the cryosphere, catchments, riverine, coastal and marine environments in relation to climate change. To equip the students with the necessary skills and techniques that are used for monitoring and comprehending these changing environments.

Responding to Climate Change
20 credits

This module will examine the social and political responses to climate change, through both mitigation and adaptation strategies, via examination of specific topics and case studies at different scales. To highlight how climate change and responses to climate change are associated with (sustainable) development processes and challenges. It will also provide you with an appreciation of how climate change is subject to different interpretations and solutions.

Impact of Climate Change on Biological Processes
20 credits

This module enables you to examine the key biological processes that are affected in plants and animals due to climate change driven biotic and abiotic stresses. This will include examining from biochemical to organismal processes and their link to the environment.

Global Issues, Local Challenges
20 credits

This module aims to provide you with a clear understand of the key issues facing the world, including geographical, biological, ecological, economic, and social threats. You will have the opportunity to analyse a wide variety of quantitate and qualitative data to develop an understanding of the localisation of these issues.

Core modules

Dissertation
40 credits

The Dissertation provides you with the experience of investigating a research topic under the guidance of an academic tutor.

Environmental Modelling and GIS
20 credits

The aim of this module is to provide you with a critical understanding of different environmental modelling techniques and to develop skills in the selection and application of appropriate models to investigate a range of environmental phenomena.

Environmental Change
20 credits

Within this module, you will examine, interpret and evaluate the evidence for Quaternary environmental change using appropriate proxy techniques and dating methods.

Optional Modules

Frontiers of Ecology
20 credits

This module enables you to examine a diverse range of important contemporary research topics linked to ecology. These will be placed in a broader context by examining conflicting issues and ideas arising from ecological considerations.

Contemporary Issues in Conservation
20 credits

This module enables you to examine a diverse range of important contemporary research topics linked to conservation biology, drawing on the research interests of the teaching staff.

Work-Based Learning
20 credits

This module provides relevant, stimulating and career-orientated experiential learning to encourage you to develop transferable skills relevant to the work environment and to foster initiative and independence of thought.

Coastal and Marine Management
20 credits

The aim of this module is to understand the main sustainability issues surrounding coastal and marine environments. You will study the scientific principles necessary to the efficient and sustainable management of coastal and marine environments and their application in a wide range of local, national and international contexts. You will also be able to develop the practical skills and knowledge required by professional environmental regulators and consultants working in coastal and marine management.

River Monitoring and Management
20 credits

The aim of this module is to introduce and analyse the main water-related legislative and management frameworks that environmental regulators and consultants work within. You will study the application of scientific principles to the management of contemporary river management issues and evaluate the methodologies used to investigate, monitor, manage and improve river environments.

Cold Environments: Processes and Change
20 credits

The aim of this module is to provide you with an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills gained in previous lecture-based modules to a new geographical setting, by carrying out detailed data-collection. You will critically evaluate the importance of field-based observations and analyses within the context of the wider literature and develop a wide range of transferable skills in measurement technique, research design, effective communication and group work.

Renewables and Low Carbon Futures
20 credits

Within this module, you will examine the relationship between energy systems, society and contemporary environmental challenges and how a low-carbon energy future can be achieved. The module will aid your understanding of the environment and social benefits and limitations of different kinds of energy generation resources and technologies. It will also outline the key factors in moving to a 'low-carbon' energy future in a way that is socially equitable and sustainable.

Your Learning Experience

Excellent facilities and learning resources

We adopt an active blended learning approach, therefore teaching includes classroom, laboratory and field-based learning. A fully hands-on approach is taken, with emphasis on the development of practical skills across a wide range of subjects alongside substantial knowledge development. GIS and development of computer literacy is an important component.

Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support

All students are allocated a personal tutor to provide academic support and pastoral guidance throughout all years of study. Tutor groups typically have 5-8 students, and meet for regular (fortnightly) tutorial meetings discussing course material linked to academic and transferable skills with fellow students.

The school is fully committed to promoting a learning environment that supports a culture of equality, diversity and inclusivity (EDI) and has a Disability Support Coordinator, an EDI Coordinator and a School EDI Working Group. Personal Tutors also play a vital role in promoting awareness of support services for students.

Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.

Assessment varies across the course and is scheduled across the semesters. The assessment types will be varied and include in-class tests, essays, scientific reports, oral presentations, poster presentations, blogs, presentations and more. Feedback will be provided following standard university procedure and will include bespoke marking criteria for each assessment type.

Where you will study

What you can expect from your School

You will study at the Byrom Street site in the university's City Campus in the heart of Liverpool. You will have access to first class teaching facilities, laboratories and study areas. The Avril Robarts library is within easy walking distance and here you'll find all the information you need to support your studies.

We are living in a world threatened by climate change, pollution and decreasing biodiversity. We need Environmental Scientists to help us tackle these issues

Course tutors

Career paths

Environmental Science graduates have a broad range of career prospects in the expanding green jobs employment sector.

Graduate opportunities include all areas of environmental monitoring, management, as well as consultancy roles in the water, resources and sustainability sectors. Example roles include working as Environmental Consultants operating in multi-national consultancies and operational government authorities such as the Environment Agency and Natural England. Beyond the directly applied career opportunities, graduates can gain employment in teaching, the civil service and a range of Geographical Information Systems and analyst-related roles across non-environment employment sectors.

Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service

A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course, to ensure our students experience a transformation in their career trajectory. Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose.

Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's suite of online Apps, resources and jobs board via the LJMU Student Futures website.

Fees and funding

Tuition Fees:

Home fee:
£9,535
Placement year:
£1,905

Fees

The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:

  • library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
  • access to programme-appropriate software
  • library and student IT support
  • free on-campus wifi via eduroam

Additional costs

Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:

  • accommodation and living expenditure
  • books (should you wish to have your own copies)
  • printing, photocopying and stationery
  • PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
  • mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
  • field trips (travel and activity costs)
  • placements (travel expenses and living costs)
  • student visas (international students only)
  • study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
  • academic conferences (travel costs)
  • professional-body membership
  • graduation (gown hire etc)

Funding

There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you'll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.

International fee:
£18,250
Placement year international:
£3,830

Courses_UG_Fees_Funding_Subheading_International

Liverpool John Moores University is committed to supporting international students by providing a range of scholarships and flexible payment plans to help students manage their tuition fees.

Scholarships

LJMU provides a variety of scholarships to support international students. Scholarships are available to self-funded students who have accepted their offer and met all the conditions outlined in their offer letter. Students must also demonstrate that they can cover living costs, travel, and other expenses associated to studying at the university. Postgraduate scholarships include tuition fee reductions and are often offered in partnership with external funding organisations.

All self-funded international students are eligible for an automatic scholarship worth up to £4,000. For more details and to view our full list of scholarships, visit the international scholarship webpages.

Deposit

All students must pay a £5,000 deposit before they can receive their CAS letter.

For more information view our deposit page.

Tuition Fee Payment Plan

After paying their £5,000 deposit, students have the option to pay their fees in full or in three equal instalments minus any internal scholarships and discounts. There are two payment options available for international students. You can either pay your tuition fees in full before enrolment or opt for a payment plan. With the payment plan, you can pay your fees in three instalments after making your £5,000 deposit. The first instalment is due before enrolment.

All payments should be made through Flywire. Full details can be found in the How to Pay Guide.

Early Bird Tuition Fee discount

We are excited to introduce a £500 Early Payment Discount to all self-funded international students. Eligible self-funded students who pay their fees by the required deadlines will get a discount which will be automatically deducted from the 1st year of tuition fees.

To see the required deadlines please visit the webpage

* Practical and field activities underpin all programmes in the School. PPE is provided for all necessary practical work. There are no costs for day field trips for core and optional modules. Residential field trips associated with core modules are subsidised and include travel and half-board accommodation costs. Any residential field trips for optional modules will have costs involved. Locations may be subject to change and also subject to national and international travel restrictions. A DBS check is not required for your application, however a DBS may be required for modules where there is a work based learning placement option. Work based learning placements that do not require a DBS check are available.

Entry requirements

Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements

Grades/points required from qualifications: BCC-BBC (104-112)

Work out how many UCAS points your qualifications are worth using the UCAS Tariff Calculator.

Qualification requirements

GCSEs and equivalents

Grade 4 or grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics/ Numeracy.

GCSE Equivalences accepted:
• Key Skills Level 2 in English/Maths
• NVQ Level 2 Functional skills in Maths and English Writing and or Reading
• Skills for Life Level 2 in Numeracy/English
• Higher Diploma in Maths/English
• Northern Ireland Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
• Wales Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number

A levels

BBC-ABB Minimum Number of A Levels: 2
Maximum AS UCAS Points: 20

Geography or related Social Science Grade C or above

BTECs

Extended Diploma: DMM

Access awards

Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications

Pass overall with a minimum of 104 points

International Baccalaureate

Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications

OCR Cambridge Technical

Extended Diploma: DMM

Irish awards

Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications

T levels

Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications.

You need to obtain the required UCAS points from a related subject area.

International requirements

IELTS

6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, taken within two years of the course start date.

https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/courses/international-entry-requirements

Find your country

Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.

How to apply

Securing your place at LJMU

UCAS is the official application route for our full-time undergraduate courses. Further information on the UCAS application process can be found here https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate-students/how-to-apply.

Your student experience

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