Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change

Our planet is facing an unprecedented climate crisis, along with threats to biodiversity, habitats and human development. The United Nations Learning Partnership highlights that children today will face the consequences of a changing climate, and a 2021 Lancet report found that 84% of young people report climate anxiety, and worry about their future on a degrading planet. However: these problems are not insurmountable. They simply require people willing to work to be part of the solution.

This course differs from traditional environmental science programmes in that its focus is on practical application of science and theory to finding and enacting solutions to the issues the planet faces. Our course team has a strong record in research across multiple environmental disciplines which allows coverage of contemporary environmental issues holistically from all angles. Key themes include ecology and biodiversity, climate change, sustainable development, natural resource management, coastal and marine science, and the use of industry-vital environmental technologies such as GIS and remote sensing.

This teaching is supplemented with strong industry engagement and frequent fieldwork to apply learning to real-world scenarios, build connections, and put theory into practice. You will develop skills that are highly valued by employers, such as critical thinking, the ability to understand and tackle complex issues, and the skill to present clear and logical arguments. Our high post-course employment rate, across many environmental disciplines, reflects the value of this more practical approach.

Join us to gain the knowledge and skills needed to tackle global environmental change. A sustainable future is possible; let us give you the tools to make it.

Modules

If you are passionate about preserving the environment and want to develop the knowledge and skills to do so, then this course is for you. Our approach combines theoretical knowledge with practical fieldwork, fostering a friendly, accessible learning environment led by research-active staff.

Our Swansea campus is ideally situated between the Gower Peninsula and Bannau Brycheiniog National Park – providing perfect study sites to put all the theory into practice.

Year 1

You will cover modules that will underpin your knowledge around the importance of the environment.  You will develop your understanding of environmental issues and enhance your digital proficiency and problem-solving skills.  This year prepares you for the remainder of your study and will give confidence on environmental issues within a professional setting.

Compulsory

• Learning in the Digital Era (20 credits)

• Contemporary Challenges: Making a Difference (20 credits)

• Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (20 credits)

• Climate Change and Visual Activism (20 credits)

• Field and Laboratory Skills (20 credits)

• Physical Landscape and the Geosphere (20 credits)

Year 2

You will delve into more detail on subject areas and begin to understand the legal underpinnings for the environment.  You will develop your research skills, as well as beginning to brand yourself for your successful future career.

Compulsory

• Changemakers: Creativity and Value Creation (20 credits)

• Changemakers: Building your Personal Brand for Sustainable Employment (20 credits)

• Coastal, Marine and Wildlife Conservation (20 credits)

• Environmental Legislation and Circular Economy (20 credits)

• Low Carbon Technologies (20 credits)

• Water Resources and Environmental Monitoring (20 credits)

Year 3

In your final year, you will engage with more advanced topics including, including Environmental Assessment, Management and Auditing, and Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing Technologies. Your Independent Project will allow you to conduct in-depth research on an area of personal interest.

Compulsory

• Environmental Assessment, Management and Auditing (20 credits)

• Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing Technologies (20 credits)

• Habitat Management and Building Resilience (20 credits)

• Independent Project (40 credits)

• Sustainable Urban Communities (20 credits)

https://www.uwtsd.ac.uk/programme-courses/undergraduate/environment-energy-and-sustainability/environment-sustainability