BSc (Honours) in Natural Sciences (Environmental Science)

Environmental science explores the complexities of the natural environment and our relationship with it. This specialist route, available in our BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences (Q64), takes a holistic approach to the science of our environment investigating topics such as global warming, water resources, pollution and conservation. Our environment is fascinating – but it’s under threat from climate change, biodiversity loss and resource depletion. Explore the consequences and implications of environmental change for sustainability from a scientific perspective, by learning about the processes, links and interactions operating in different environments.

Key features of the course

• Helps you explore the complex relationships between humans and the environment
• Develops your understanding of environmental issues, such as climate change, biodiversity, water resource use, waste management and renewable energy
• Develops your skills in thinking, analysis and problem solving applied to environmental issues and debates
• Gives you the opportunity to carry out practical environmental science projects including optional attendance at field schools

Accessibility

We make all our qualifications as accessible as possible and have a comprehensive range of services to support all our students. The BSc (Honours) Natural Sciences uses a variety of study materials and has the following elements:

• studying a mixture of printed and online material – online learning resources may include websites, audio/video media clips, and interactive activities such as online quizzes
• using mathematical and scientific expressions, notations and associated techniques
• undertaking practical work or using an online laboratory
• working with specialist reading material such as scientific journals
• using specialist software
• working in a group with other students
• using and/or producing diagrams and/or screenshots
• finding external/third party material online.

This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:

• Knowledge and understanding
• Cognitive skills
• Practical and professional skills
• Key skills

The level and depth of your learning gradually increase as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.

Course details

This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.

• Stage 1 with two 60-credit introductory science modules.
• At Stage 2 you’ll study a 60-credit environmental science module and choose a further 60 credits from a range of science modules.
• At Stage 3, you’ll study a 60-credit environmental science module, choose a further 30-credit module and complete your degree with a 30-credit project module.

Prepare for OU study with an Access module

We offer two starting points depending on how confident you are or how long it’s been since you last studied. Choose to dive straight in at Stage 1, or if you’d prefer some extra preparation, you can get started with an optional Access module.