Environmental Science

Explore the processes which impact the wide range of ecosystems and environments on Earth. You can tailor your degree to suit your interests and focus on specialisms such as climate change, conservation, sustainability and environmental quality and technology.

Become a specialist in this vital international discipline, and lend your expertise to combat the climate crisis.

One of the first degree programmes to be established in the subject, Sheffield remains at the leading edge of environmental science – as you’ll see, when you experience our blend of research-led teaching in the field and in the lab.

From the essentials in geography, earth science and biology, you’ll forge your own path in years two and three. Your study will take you to a range of far-reaching research specialisms such as climate change, conservation, sustainability and environmental quality. You’ll also develop specialist skills including earth observation and geospatial data analysis.

Practical work and field classes are an essential part of the course. Third year students carry out an independent dissertation using the skills and knowledge gained from the first and second year of study. Many students choose to carry out fieldwork and/or lab work - the school has scholarships to help support fieldwork expenses.

With environmental science now a rapidly evolving, in-demand discipline, you’ll find there is no shortage of careers in industry, research, conservation and ecology – to name a few.

Our current courses are accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) and the Committee of Heads of Environmental Sciences (CHES) until 2026. Accreditation means that our courses are of high quality and provide excellent standards of professional development. Students are eligible to become student members of the IES - the first step toward achieving Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) status.

Why study this course?

We cover field trip costs: To ensure everyone has the chance to carry out fieldwork, all costs for the core residential field classes are met by the school. This includes the costs of travel, accommodation and food during your residential stay.

Fully accredited: Both the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) and the Committee of Heads of Environmental Sciences (CHES) have accredited this course. You'll also be eligible to become student members of the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) – the first step toward achieving Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) status.

1st in the Russell Group for academic support and student voice: Our environmental science courses rank first in the Russell Group for academic support and student voice, according to the National Student Survey (NSS) 2024.

Student life: Get involved in EnviroSoc, the student society for environmental science students run by environmental science students. You can also join GeogSoc and become part of one of the biggest societies at the University of Sheffield. Over 400 members enjoy socials, spending time in the Peak District, career and academic support, volunteering, sports and more.