Keele University

What you'll study

The programme covers core topics in environmental processes, pollution, ecology, hydrology and environmental management, taught through a mix of lectures, practical laboratory classes, fieldwork and independent research. Early years emphasise foundational science and methods—ecology, earth systems, chemistry for the environment, statistics and GIS—while later years develop specialist skills in areas such as environmental monitoring and assessment, contaminant transport, climate change impacts, conservation management and environmental policy.

• Core modules typically include ecology and ecosystem processes, environmental chemistry and pollution, hydrology and water resources, and quantitative methods for environmental science.
• Technical skills modules cover laboratory techniques, environmental sampling, GIS and remote sensing, data analysis and modelling.
• Applied and policy modules examine environmental law and governance, sustainable development, environmental impact assessment and risk management.
• Fieldwork and project components include day and residential fieldcourses in local and regional landscapes and an independent final-year research project or dissertation that develops practical research skills.
• Optional routes may allow specialisation in areas such as conservation science, pollution and remediation, or climate change adaptation, and many students take modules from related disciplines such as geography, biology or environmental social science.

Entry requirements

Typical entry expects completed secondary school qualifications with a strong science or maths background. Successful applicants usually hold A-levels (or equivalent) including at least one science subject such as Biology, Geography, Chemistry or Environmental Science; other qualifications such as BTECs and the International Baccalaureate are also considered. GCSE-level competence in English and Mathematics is normally required.

Keele considers mature students and applicants with relevant work or vocational experience; admissions may also require a personal statement and, for some applicants, an interview. International applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide variety of careers in the public, private and third sectors. Typical roles include environmental consultant, conservation officer, environmental monitoring technician, GIS analyst, water-sector scientist, sustainability officer in business, policy advisor in government or NGOs, and research roles leading to postgraduate study.

The degree provides practical laboratory and field skills, data analysis and report-writing experience valued by employers, and many students complete placement years or internships to build workplace experience. Keele’s careers service supports CV development, employer engagement and networking opportunities specific to environmental and earth-science sectors.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-based student experience with easy access to a range of nearby environments for fieldwork, from woodlands and rivers to upland areas, supporting hands-on learning. Teaching is delivered in relatively small groups which allows close contact with academic staff and opportunities for supervised research projects.

The School’s teaching emphasises an interdisciplinary approach, integrating natural science techniques with policy and management perspectives. Students benefit from well-equipped laboratories, dedicated GIS and computing facilities, regular field trips and options for a placement year or study abroad to gain professional experience. Links with local authorities, environmental consultancies and conservation organisations provide pathways into employment and applied research.