A level Environmental Science

A multi-disciplinary approach to learning about the threats, management and sustainability of our planet

New for 2023, Environmental Science is an exciting and hugely relevant course that provides a detailed picture of our planet and our relationship with it: the living and physical environment, its biological and natural resources, and how these are interconnected.

About the Course

In studying Environmental Science A level, you will explore the key challenges facing our planet, learning how the environment supports us; how we threaten these support systems and how we can embrace technologies and strategies that deliver a more sustainable lifestyle. By studying wildlife conservation, resource management, energy use, pollution and food production, you will develop an in-depth understanding of the problems the planet faces and the solutions.

We will look at the many aspects of the world around us, including conservation methods, land use conflict, global climate change, pollution, energy resources, sustainable biological resources, evolution, biotechnology, ecosystems and population dynamics. You’ll gain important knowledge about how society makes decisions about environmental issues and how these contribute to the success of the economy and society: a key 21st-century skill set!

Opportunities unique to this course

This is a new course at Hills Road starting in 2023. We are currently working hard to put together some exciting opportunities for Environmental Science students to learn more about the world around us; this will include talks from expert speakers, and trips and opportunities to see environmental and social policy impacts in action both here and in Europe.

The course provides a multi-disciplinary approach to learning based on the key scientific principles of the subject. The following topics are included:

• The living environment: life on Earth, life processes, biodiversity and conservation
• The physical environment: the atmosphere and hydrosphere, mineral resources and biochemical cycles
• Energy resources: their impact, importance, future and sustainability, energy security
• Pollution: pollutants and strategies for control and management
• Biological resources; agricultural, aquatic and forests
• Sustainability: in energy and materials cycles
• Research methods: scientific methodologies and practical applications

Two written exam paper (3 hours, 120 marks each). A combination of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.

You need to be qualified by both the relevant Admissions Score AND the predicted GCSE grade for each A level you apply for.

Please go to the College website to find the most up-to-date entry requirements for each A level that we offer: https://www.hillsroad.ac.uk/study-with-us/a-level-subjects

You can also visit www.hillsroad.ac.uk/apply to find out more about making your application.

Students wishing to study this subject at degree level may also consider the following: zoology, marine biology, biotechnology, animal science, sustainable civil engineering, journalism and urban landscape design. Environmental experts are needed in business, industry and government as well as estate management, land reclamation, countryside management and conservation.

For more information and to read the FAQs for this subject visit www.hillsroad.ac.uk/environmental-science