Course Overview
Please note: you will make your selection of three A Levels once you have progressed into the application process.
Environmental Science covers a wide variety of topics, from how life on Earth evolved to new technologies in the energy sector. You will gain an understanding of how humans rely on natural systems and learn about how global challenges such as climate change can be addressed. If you enjoy a multi-disciplinary approach to learning and have a keen interest in the sustainability of our planet, this is the course for you!
Topics may include:
- Conservation of biodiversity
- The physical environment (the atmosphere, hydrosphere, minerals, and soils)
- Energy resources
- Pollution
- Biological resources (agriculture, fisheries, and forestry) & sustainability.
Assessment Methods
Your A Level grade will be decided by two 3-hour exams in your second year. There will also be regular internal assessments to monitor your progress. You will have the opportunity to undertake practical work both in the lab and in the field throughout your course, and these practical skills will be tested in the exams.
Progression Options
Many universities offer Environmental Science as a degree discipline and several of our students each year choose to study the subject at degree level.
Many also go on to study related subjects such as Marine Biology, Conservation and Ecology or Agriculture. Some students have been successful in gaining degree apprenticeships, such as an Environmental Protection Officer.
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English Language, maths and a science. Grade 5 maths is preferred as 10% of the exam marks are for mathematical skills, so you must be comfortable with data analysis and calculations.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply directly on any of the UCS College Group websites, whether you wish to study at Bridgwater College, Cannington College, Strode College, or Taunton College. Simply use our “Find a Course” feature and follow the on-screen instructions – be sure to have your important information to hand.
We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.
The Student Experience Team can mentor and signpost students who are struggling with a range of issues that are negatively impacting their day-to-day life. The Student Experience Team works closely with the Safeguarding & Lifestyle Teams to promote proactive wellbeing enrichment sessions. The team can refer on to counselling when appropriate.
We provide top-quality workshops and teaching areas across our Colleges for subjects such as art, design and media, hair and beauty, catering, automotive engineering and construction. You can review our campus facilities by navigating to the “College Life” section of our websites.
For us, the success of our students always comes first. By investing in our built environment, we are investing in your future.
All of our students will have a personal tutor to support them with their academic progress and personal development. The tutorial programme consists of 1:1 support, group tutorials and guest speakers, plus targeted online resources which complement the UCS College Group Advantage scheme.
The Safeguarding Team can offer advice and guidance on anything that may be affecting your young person and their studies – no problem is too big or too small!
Please email our Safeguarding team at staysafe@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk. If you query is urgent, please come to the College Reception and ask to speak to a Safeguarding Officer.
If you cannot find an answer to your question in this FAQ section, you can ask us a question by visiting our Contact Us page.
