A Level - Environmental Science
BackCourse Information
What does the course involve?
The course consists of the following topics across the 2 years of study.
- The Living Environment: life on Earth; life processes; biodiversity and conservation in ecosystems and biomes
- The Physical Environment: the atmosphere and hydrosphere; mineral resources and biochemical cycles – with links to climate change and global warming
- Energy resources: their impact; importance and future; sustainability and energy security
- Pollution: the properties of pollutants and strategies for their control and management
- Biological resources: agriculture; aquatics and our forests
- Sustainability: energy and material cycles and carbon footprints
Research methods underpin the course, where we will consider scientific methodologies and practical applications throughout.
Is it for me?
If you are interested and recognise the importance of contemporary environmental issues or want to develop the necessary skills to engage in making our world a more sustainable place, then this is the course for you.
We are looking for students who have an inquisitive scientific mind-set as well as thinking critically about how we can care for our planet. In addition, you should be able to analyse; solve and present scientific data effectively and have a passion for decision-making and sharing your own viewpoints and solutions.
How will I be assessed?
Two 3-hour written exams each worth 50% of the qualification.
Paper 1: The Physical Environment; energy resources; pollution and research methods.
Paper 2: The Living Environment; biological resources; sustainability and research methods.
Papers consist of multiple choice; short answer and extended writing/essays.
Where can this course take me?
The course is multi-disciplinary, so would naturally allow progression onto a variety of higher education courses or employment opportunities. Environmental Science is a course which could lead to specialist areas such as marine biology; environmental health; animal science; environmental management and ecological science. However, the course may lead students into employment opportunities where environmental experts are greatly needed such as urban landscape design; planning and policymaking; conservation and sustainability consulting.
Entry Requirements
Standard entry requirements, plus:
- Grade 5 in GCSE Maths
- Grade 5 in each Science or 55 in Combined Science
- Grade 5 in GCSE English Language or a written based subject such as Geography, History, Philosophy, Sociology
Additional Costs
There will be additional costs for day trips/residential fieldtrips which are linked to the course. Scientific research is a fundamental part of Environmental Science therefore students must undertake fieldwork which meets the minimum requirement of the exam board.
Additional qualifications
Geography; Biology; Chemistry and Maths are all subjects which would complement the Environmental Science A-Level. No previous study of Environmental Science is required but a general interest in environmental studies is important.
UCAS tariff points
A* - 56 points
A - 48 points
B - 40 points
C – 32 points
D - 24 points
E - 16 points
