Use your scientific skills to solve environmental problems.
Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary field of study that integrates natural and physical sciences in studying the environment and solving environmental problems. The importance of the environment, and the increasing focus placed on it through processes such as global change, continue to emphasise the importance of Environmental Science.
- Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.
- * Estimated tuition fees are based on 2025 rates. Refer to international fees for more information.
- Not all majors/minors and elective options are available at every campus. You should refer to the What Can I Study tab, and the proposed study sequence for your chosen campus and intake for further information.
Environmental Science is an interdisciplinary field of study that integrates natural and physical sciences in studying the environment and solving environmental problems. The importance of the environment, and the increasing focus placed on it through processes such as global change, continue to emphasise the importance of Environmental Science.
This program allows you to combine broad studies in science with areas such as plant and animal ecology, chemistry, hydrology, Earth sciences, weather and climate, geospatial sciences and resource economics.
Study natural and human managed marine and terrestrial environments and gain skills in environmental management, conservation and restoration ecology and catchment processes. Gain essential practical skills through field trips, or earn credit and practical experience through an industry-based placement.
The suite of courses (subjects) in Environmental Science can be enhanced by selecting minors in environmental management, climate change adaptation, geospatial analysis, restoration and conservation, animal ecology, environmental geography, journalism, coastal and marine environments or one of the science minors such as biology or chemistry.
As a graduate, you’ll have the scientific base required to make valid judgments on the preservation and use of Australia’s natural ecosystems and resources. You’ll also qualify for associate membership of the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ). There are excellent opportunities to further your studies and undertake research in USC’s research strengths of genecology and sustainability.
Career opportunities
Careers as an Environmental Scientist generally involve work in one or more of the areas, these include: Environmental management and protection, parks and wildlife, resource management, waste and pollution control, catchment management agencies, local councils, environmental consultancies.
Membership
Australian Network for Plant Conservation; Australian Water Association; Ecological Society of Australia; Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand; Australian Marine Sciences Association.
Program structure
For students commencing in the current semester. All other students please refer to previous handbooks.
Introductory courses (6)
COR109 Advanced Theoretical Issues in Psychology
ENS103 Professional Practice of Psychology
SCI102 Ethical and Professional Issues In Psychology
SCI105 Research Dissertation A
SCI110 Research Dissertation B
SET111 Communication and Thought
Advanced courses (12)
ENS221 Earth's Surface Processes, Materials and Soils
ENS222 Biodiversity and Ecology
ENS242 Chemistry
ENS253 Science Research Methods
ENS254 Environment, Technology and Sustainability
ENS300 Plant Diversity and Ecology
ENS305 Terrestrial Vertebrate Diversity and Ecology
ENS351 Introduction to Weather and Climate
GEO201 An Introduction to Geographic Information Science and Technology
GEO301 Satellite Image Analysis and Surveying
LGL301 Environmental and Resource Economics
SCI202 Environmental Chemistry
Elective courses (6)
Select 6 elective courses from either faculty (Arts and Business or Science, Health, Education and Engineering).
Note: Not all USC courses are available on every USC campus.
Total units: 288
Recommended study sequences
Program requirements and notes
Program requirements
In order to graduate you must:
- Complete 1 required core course.
- Complete 6 required introductory courses.
- Complete 12 required advanced courses.
- Complete 6 elective courses from any Faculty.
- Complete no more than 10 introductory courses including core courses.
- Complete a minimum of 14 advanced (200/300 level)
Program notes
- Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods including essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations. Not all courses will necessarily include all methods.
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa.
- As part of your USC program, you may apply to Study Overseas to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider. It is advisable to contact your Program Advisor to discuss timing and course issues.
- When enrolling, please refer to the Study Plan.