Environmental scientists are involved in tackling issues such as global climate change, pollution, use of land and water resources and changes in wildlife habitats. It involves an understanding of scientific principles, economic influences and political action.
This course provides a broad and up to date selection of ideas relevant to the central position of environmental science in society. You will investigate key areas of the living environment such as biodiversity and interdependence.
The skills that you learn while studying Environmental Science, such as investigating, critical thinking, project management and survey techniques, are valuable in a wide variety of industry sectors including renewable energy, forestry and environmental conservation and agriculture.
Career Pathways
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Information, Culture and Heritage
Entry is at the discretion of the school or college but you would normally be expected to have:
The course consists of three areas of study.
Living environment
Topics include: Investigating ecosystems and biodiversity; interdependence; human influences on biodiversity.
Earth’s resources
Topics include: The geosphere; the hydrosphere; the biosphere; the atmosphere.
Sustainability
Topics include: Global challenges; food; water; energy; waste management; anthropogenic climate change.
The course assessment has three components totalling 140 marks:
For the assignment component, you will research and report on a topic which should involve experimental work/field investigations. Your research should include data/information gathered from the internet, books, journals or maps.
Both the question papers and the assignment are set and externally marked by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).
The grade awarded is based on the total marks achieved across course assessment.
The course assessment is graded A-D.
Further study, training or employment in:
