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Environmental Science

There has never been a more important time to study Environmental Science. In this A Level you will understand the natural forces which shape our planet and the ways in which human actions have affected these processes. From habitat conservation to climate change mitigation, you will gain vital knowledge needed to progress into further study or employment in the ever-expanding Green Economy.

Students who enjoy a multidisciplinary approach to learning, with a range of practical and academic skills, and have a keen interest in the sustainability of our planet will find this course engaging and thought provoking.

You will gain an understanding of the physical and biological environment, as well as exploring topics such as pollution, climate change and energy. As an environmental scientist you will develop research skills in the lab, analyse data and carry out practical fieldwork across four day trips in the local area.

This course combines well with Geography or Biology and may also appeal to you if you are taking Politics, Business or Social Sciences, or if you just want to develop your understanding of environmental issues.

TOPICS COVERED
  • The living environment
  • The physical environment
  • Energy resources
  • Pollution
  • Biological resources
  • Sustainability
  • Research methods

Course Essentials

Courses Available

A Level

Entry Requirements

Plus:
Grade 4 in two GCSE Science subjects,
Grade 4 GCSE Maths
GCSE Geography is useful

How The Course is Assessed

100% exam

Career Pathways

Students go on to degrees in related subjects such as Earth Sciences, Sustainable Development, Conservation or Environmental Science itself. There are a range of careers in the environmental field such as conservation, ecology, disaster management, planning, farming, forestry and horticulture, water management and eco-tourism.

Transferable Skills

Research and lab skills, teamwork; quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques; understanding a range of environmental issues and their political context including the climate crisis.

Other Information

This is a Science A Level, but it is accessible to a wide range of students. You can turn your learning into action by joining the college Climate and Environment Action Group, and broaden your learning by attending regular additional talks and lectures. There are four days of fieldwork for which there will be costs of around £70 plus opportunities for optional overseas trips. Previous destinations have included North America and Iceland.

Enquiries To

Emma-Jayne Hanner: ehh@varndean.ac.uk

What are the Standard Entry Requirements?

CourseGeneral GCSE Grade minimum entry requirements
IB Diploma or 4 A levelsA mixture of at least 7 GCSEs at Grades 9 – 6 including English, Maths and Science.
3 A LevelsA mixture of at least 6 GCSEs at Grades 9 – 4 including English.
A mixed programme at Level 3, to include at least one vocational courseA mixture of at least 5 GCSEs at Grades 9 – 4 including English.
Foundation Level (Level 2)At least 4 GCSEs at Grade 3, including English. At least one GCSE should be at Grade 4 or above.
Any student who has not achieved a grade 4 or C in GCSE English and/or Maths must include further study of these subjects in their programme.