University of Adelaide

What you'll study

The Environmental Science major is built around core scientific principles and practical skills. Early years emphasise foundational topics such as ecology, chemistry, earth systems, statistics and scientific communication. As you progress you choose specialised streams and elective units to suit your interests, such as conservation biology, climate science, hydrology, soils and land management, pollution and remediation, and environmental policy.

Typical components of the degree include:

• Core science units: introductory biology, chemistry, earth and atmospheric science, and quantitative methods including statistics and data analysis.
• Environmental science units: ecology and biodiversity, environmental chemistry, geographic information systems (GIS), environmental monitoring and assessment, and environmental modelling.
• Applied and professional practice: fieldwork and laboratory techniques, a capstone project or research project (independent or team-based), and industry-linked placements or internships.
• Interdisciplinary options: modules in environmental policy and law, sustainability science, resource economics, and indigenous environmental knowledge to provide broader context for scientific solutions.

The programme emphasises hands-on learning: regular field trips, use of analytical laboratories and training in spatial, statistical and modelling tools used by professional environmental scientists. There is a pathway to Honours or postgraduate research for students who wish to pursue research careers.

Entry requirements

Entry is competitive and based on academic achievement plus meeting English language requirements. Standard entry pathways include domestic secondary school completion (or equivalent) and recognised international qualifications. Typical preparation and selection considerations are:

• Strong background in science and mathematics at secondary level is recommended (for example biology, chemistry, earth science/geography and mathematics).
• Meeting the University of Adelaide's general admission criteria for undergraduate science degrees or equivalent tertiary qualifications.
• International applicants must meet recognised English language proficiency standards (e.g. IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent accepted by the University).
• Alternative entry pathways and bridging programmes are available for applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements; selections may also consider relevant work experience or preparatory study.

Applicants should consult the University’s official admissions pages for specific entry pathways and up-to-date information on prerequisites and supporting documentation.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science) are prepared for a range of roles across government, industry, consultancy and non-government organisations. Common career paths include:

• Environmental scientist or consultant conducting environmental impact assessments, site investigations and remediation planning.
• Conservation and biodiversity officer working with parks, reserves and conservation programs.
• Water and catchment management roles, including water quality monitoring and hydrology support.
• Environmental compliance and policy roles in local, state or federal government agencies.
• Sustainability and environmental management positions in industry, including corporate sustainability officers and resource management advisors.
• GIS and spatial analyst roles applying mapping and remote-sensing to environmental questions.
• Further study leading to research positions, environmental law, urban planning or postgraduate specialisations (Honours, Masters, PhD).

The degree emphasises transferable skills — scientific literacy, quantitative analysis, field and laboratory techniques, report writing and stakeholder communication — that are sought after across sectors addressing environmental challenges.

Why study at University of Adelaide

The University of Adelaide offers an Environmental Science education grounded in active research and applied teaching. Students benefit from access to well-equipped laboratories, GIS and modelling facilities, and local field sites that support hands-on training. The University’s strong disciplinary links across earth sciences, biological sciences and environmental policy enable an interdisciplinary approach to complex environmental issues.

Additionally, the University has established connections with industry, government agencies and research institutes, supporting opportunities for placements, collaborative projects and networking. Studying in Adelaide provides proximity to diverse landscapes — coastal, agricultural and arid regions — that serve as living laboratories for environmental study and practical experience.