Environmental Sciences

An Environmental Sciences degree at Brighton prepares you to understand and address the complex interactions between people and the planet. You’ll study the science behind climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental degradation, and learn how to develop solutions for a sustainable future.

At Brighton, you’ll gain practical experience through fieldwork, laboratory sessions and real-world projects. You’ll explore topics such as ecology, environmental chemistry, pollution control and sustainability, and develop technical skills in GIS, remote sensing and data analysis for environmental monitoring and planning.

Brighton graduates go on to careers in environmental consultancy, conservation, sustainability management, water and waste industries, and government agencies. Many progress to postgraduate study or specialise in areas such as environmental assessment, renewable energy or climate adaptation.

Top reasons to choose this course

• Gain a degree with professional accreditation from the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES), recognising its quality and relevance to industry standards.

• 100% of students on this course who filled out the National Student Survey 2025 said that teaching staff are good at explaining things; 95% said that they make the subject engaging and that the course is intellectually stimulating and challenged them to achieve their best work.

• Brighton’s sustainability commitment – study in a city with strong environmental initiatives and access to the South Downs National Park and The Living Coast UNESCO Biosphere.

• Fieldwork every year – learn practical skills on day trips and residential field trips, with options to study diverse environments in the UK and overseas.

• Travel and accommodation included for mandatory residential trips to locations such as Wales and Sicily (see Fees and costs section for details).

• Boost your CV with work experience – take advantage of an optional placement year, funded internships and community volunteering opportunities.

• Build professional skills in geospatial data analysis, environmental impact assessment and planning, all highly valued across environmental sectors.

• Strengthen transferable skills in time management, teamwork, communication, presenting, designing solutions and software proficiency to prepare for your career.

• Contribute to cutting-edge research in areas such as environmental change, conservation management, geohazards, climate systems and aquatic environments.

• Study at a university with impact – 100% of our research impact is rated ‘outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’ for reach and significance (REF 2021).

Why Brighton is a great place to study Environmental Sciences
Our Moulsecoomb campus puts you at the heart of one of the UK’s most ecologically diverse regions. Just minutes from the South Downs National Park and close to coastal habitats, you’ll have easy access to woodlands, wetlands and marine environments for fieldwork and research.

Brighton is a vibrant, creative city with strong environmental networks and conservation organisations, offering opportunities for volunteering, placements and community projects. Excellent transport links make it simple to reach local nature reserves, national parks and employer events, ensuring field trips and industry engagement are part of everyday learning.