2024/25 entry Applications also open for 2025/26
BSc (Hons) Environmental Science with Foundation Year
Clearing
Visit our Clearing hub: You can call one of our helpful and friendly Clearing advisors or complete our online application form.
Minimum UCAS points required: 56
Why study Environmental Science with Foundation Year at Liverpool John Moores University?
- The course covers the major challenges currently facing the environment and solutions to tackle them
- Fieldwork is integral to the course, with field trips to Greece, the Lake District, North Wales and the North West coast included in fees*
- Access to state-of-the-art computing facilities and analytical equipment
- Prepares you for a career in the expanding green jobs employment sector, with excellent employment opportunities in areas such as: environmental management; government authorities; engineering and surveying; civil service; and Geographical Information Systems
- Taught by experienced, research-active staff
- Focus on skill acquisition via practical workshops and field learning
- Options to undertake work placements of 4-6 weeks and/or a 12 month sandwich year
- Options to study abroad for part of the degree
- International Foundation Year course available offering direct progression onto this degree programme
About your course
The environment is currently facing major challenges, such as climate change, pollution and decreasing biodiversity. Studying BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science with Foundation Year will allow you to investigate the challenges we are facing and learn how to tackle these pressing issues for future populations.
About the Foundation Year
The Foundation Year is ideal if you have the ability to study for a degree but don't have the qualifications to enter directly onto the Environmental Science honours degree programme. Once you pass the Foundation Year you will progress directly onto the first year of the honours degree. If you are a full-time UK student, you will qualify for student financial support for the full duration of your course (subject to eligibility criteria).
About BSc (Hons) Environmental Science with Foundation Year
Exploring the way in which our physical environment develops and how humans affect natural processes and interact within the world form the basis of the course. This is a highly practical programme that provides you with ample background and practical knowledge for understanding environmental processes and interactions. It also offers plenty of opportunities to apply your knowledge in practical contexts. Fieldwork, completed both in the UK and overseas, is integral to the course, with field trips to Greece, the Lake District, North Wales and the North West coast included in fees.
This programme will provide you with the skills and knowledge to address these issues, and prepare you for entry into the expanding green jobs employment sector. You will acquire skills and knowledge through practical learning and use of LJMUs state-of-the-art facilities, such as Geographical Information Systems facilities and analytical equipment.
"We are living in a world threatened by climate change, pollution and decreasing biodiversity. We need Environmental Scientists to help us tackle these issues"
Fees and funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:
- library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
- access to programme-appropriate software
- library and student IT support
- free on-campus wifi via eduroam
Additional costs
Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:
- accommodation and living expenditure
- books (should you wish to have your own copies)
- printing, photocopying and stationery
- PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
- mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
- field trips (travel and activity costs)
- placements (travel expenses and living costs)
- student visas (international students only)
- study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
- academic conferences (travel costs)
- professional-body membership
- graduation (gown hire etc)
Funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you'll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.
Practical and field activities underpin all programmes in the School. PPE is provided for all necessary practical work. There are no costs for day field trips for core and optional modules. Residential field trips associated with core modules are subsidised and include travel and half-board accommodation costs. Any residential field trips for optional modules will have costs involved. Locations may be subject to change and also subject to national and international travel restrictions. A DBS check is not required for your application, however a DBS may be required for modules where there is a work based learning placement option. Work based learning placements that do not require a DBS check are available.
Employability
Environmental Science graduates have a broad range of career prospects in the expanding green jobs employment sector.
Graduate opportunities include all areas of environmental monitoring, management, as well as consultancy roles in the water, resources and sustainability sectors. Example roles include working as Environmental Consultants operating in multi-national consultancies and operational government authorities such as the Environment Agency and Natural England. Beyond the directly applied career opportunities, graduates can gain employment in teaching, the civil service and a range of Geographical Information Systems and analyst-related roles across non-environment employment sectors.
Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service
A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course, to ensure our students experience a transformation in their career trajectory. Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose.
Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's suite of online Apps, resources and jobs board via the LJMU Student Futures website. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU's in-house recruitment service, and we also offer fully funded Discovery Internships.
One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones and we offer a year-round programme of events, including themed careers and employability workshops, employer events and recruitment fairs. Our Start-Up Hub can help you to grow your enterprise skills and to research, plan and start your own business or become a freelancer.
A suite of learning experiences, services and opportunities is available to final year students to help ensure you leave with a great onward plan. You can access LJMU's Careers, Employability and Start-up Services after you graduate and return for one-to-one support for life.
Go abroad
LJMU aims to make international opportunities available to every student. You may be able to study abroad as part of your degree at one of our 100+ partner universities across the world. You could also complete a work placement or apply for one of our prestigious worldwide internship programmes. If you wanted to go abroad for a shorter amount of time, you could attend one of our 1-4 week long summer schools.
Our Go Citizen Scheme can help with costs towards volunteering, individual projects or unpaid placements anywhere in the world. With all of these opportunities at your feet, why wouldn’t you take up the chance to go abroad?
Find out more about the opportunities we have available via our Instagram @ljmuglobalopps or email us at: goabroad@ljmu.ac.uk.
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What you will study on this degree
Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Level 3
Core modules
Skills and Perspectives in Science 1
20 credits
This module aims to develop your basic knowledge and research skills and covers scientific perspectives, writing, data handling and statistical analysis.
Wildlife Studies
20 credits
This module provides you with a broad overview of the diverse range of disciplines comprising wildlife studies.
Skills and Perspectives in Science 2
20 credits
This module provides you with an appreciation of some modern scientific issues that are commonly discussed in the press. You will also cover a selection of topical subjects in biology, chemistry and related areas, alongside developing a range of academic, research and transferable skills related to your programme of study.
Understanding the Environment
20 credits
This module provides you with an understanding of the earths natural systems. You will study the global environment and characterisation of the Earths main biomes, atmosphere and climate, the hydrological cycle, the rock cycle, formation of soils, biodiversity, human environments and human-environment interactions.
Building Blocks of Life
20 credits
This module provides you with an overview of key concepts in cell biology, including the chemical basis of the biosciences. Throughout the module you will gain an understanding of the basic concepts of cell biology and chemistry for the natural sciences, which you will learn through a series of lectures, workshops and practical laboratory sessions.
Anatomy and Physiology
20 credits
This module enables you to examine the concepts of homeostasis, communication and transport within organisms. It also provides an introduction to human functional anatomy using a systemic approach to the organisation and function of organs and tissues in the human body.
Level 4
Core modules
Ecology
20 credits
This module provides you with a basic understanding of ecology and ecological characteristics of a range of habitats. You will study basic concepts, such as species and succession, communities and ecosystems, biotic and abiotic elements, nutrient cycling, populations and diversity and adaptations of organisms to their environment. Part of this will be achieved through field visits to a range of habitats.
Methods Skills and Careers 1
20 credits
The aim of this module is to provide you with practical experience in the methods employed by geographers to collect, statistically analyse, present and interpret primary and secondary data. You will develop quantitative and qualitative practical skills, as well as observational skills and be introduced to self reflection on personal and academic development.
Earth Systems
20 credits
This module will provide you with an introduction to the Earth from a geographical perspective and explores how the various global systems are linked and interact with one another.
Hazards
20 credits
This module introduces a range of natural, anthropogenic and cascading hazards, including pollution, flooding, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, wildfires, pandemics, heatwaves and human conflicts, etc. The causes and impacts from these hazards to the physical and human environment are explored, along with the latest adaptation and mitigation strategies used.
Environment Society and Sustainability
20 credits
Within this module, you will examine the relationship between environment, society and sustainability in the context of increasing concerns about human impacts on the environment. You will focus on issues in relationship to population, economic growth, resource use and distribution and social welfare in order to outline different scientific, technological, social and political approaches to handling 'real world' issues.
Methods Skills and Careers 2
20 credits
This module will provide you with practical skills in the methods used by geographers to collect, present and interpret primary and secondary data. You will develop both quantitative and qualitative practical skills and field based observational skills.
Level 5
Core modules
GIS and Employability
20 credits
This module aims to inform research, inquiry and communication through development of geographical skills and provide you with increased professional and subject specific understanding. It will also introduce you to Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and key methods of data and database management.
Environmental Pollution
20 credits
This module will introduce the processes that drive the functioning of two major (terrestrial and marine) environments of the Earth with a view to their deeper understanding, evaluation and management. You will develop an appreciation and assessment of capabilities of the environmental impact of humans (e.g. pollution, deforestation, ocean acidification) on natural environments and ecosystems. You will develop skills in acquiring, processing and interpreting environmental data.
Optional Modules
Ecology Field Skills
20 credits
In this module you will examine different standardised methods used for ecological censuses and surveys in the UK. Field experience is provided and different sampling techniques are dealt with in depth during lectures and during fieldwork, with the aim of explaining the quantitative framework on which they are based in addition to providing practical experience of their execution in the field. You will also learn how to digitise spatial data and produce maps using GIS which you will then use to analyse spatial data on habitat and vegetation features.
Wildlife and Ecosystem Management
20 credits
This module is an advanced course in general ecology and wildlife population management and seeks to draw linkages between populations and biogeochemical cycles. This is placed within the context of applied wildlife and ecosystem management by using a mix of case studies, workshops, and fieldtrips to a site managed and restored for wildlife or wider ecosystem functioning.
Conservation Practice
20 credits
This module introduces you to conservation practice and management through largely field based activities on sites of conservation protection or importance. The module is developed to work alongside conservation practice organisation. You will gain knowledge on development and implementation of conservation management plans, protected area designation and other conservation practices such as habitat restoration and agri-environment schemes.
Marine and Freshwater Biology
20 credits
This module provides a broad introduction to fundamental aspects of marine and freshwater biology, including basic oceanography, limnology and productivity in the marine and freshwater environment. Different marine and freshwater habitat types found in various parts of the world are introduced, and their biological (e.g. ecology, animal behaviour) and physical characteristics are discussed. The exploitation and conservation of these ecosystems are also considered.
International Environments
20 credits
The aim of this module is to facilitate your understanding and evaluation of processes in global environments through an international field class examining, recording, interpreting and evaluating field evidence in a range of natural and anthropogenic landscapes. It will also provide an opportunity to identify the diversity of culture in the wider international context. You will be able to develop an understanding of spatial and temporal variation and themes around sustainability across geographical studies.
Environmental Science Sandwich Year
120 credits
This module will enable you to carry out an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give you the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to your programme of study as well as the attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment.
Study Semester Abroad - Environmental Science
60 credits
This module allows students to replace one semester of their LJMU programme with a semester of full-time study at an approved overseas partner institution
Study Year Abroad - Environmental Science
120 credits
This module aims to provide you with an additional year of study at an approved overseas partner that will complement your programme at LJMU.
Cryosphere, Catchments and Oceans
20 credits
This module will provide students with an appreciation of fundamental processes that operate in(and link) the cryosphere, catchments, riverine, coastal and marine environments in relation to climate change. To equip the students with the necessary skills and techniques that are used for monitoring and comprehending these changing environments.
Responding to Climate Change
20 credits
This module will examine the social and political responses to climate change, through both mitigation and adaptation strategies, via examination of specific topics and case studies at different scales. To highlight how climate change and responses to climate change are associated with (sustainable) development processes and challenges. It will also provide you with an appreciation of how climate change is subject to different interpretations and solutions.
Impact of Climate Change on Biological Processes
20 credits
This module enables you to examine the key biological processes that are affected in plants and animals due to climate change driven biotic and abiotic stresses. This will include examining from biochemical to organismal processes and their link to the environment.
Global Issues, Local Challenges
20 credits
This module aims to provide you with a clear understand of the key issues facing the world, including geographical, biological, ecological, economic, and social threats. You will have the opportunity to analyse a wide variety of quantitate and qualitative data to develop an understanding of the localisation of these issues.
Level 6
Core modules
Dissertation
40 credits
The Dissertation provides you with the experience of investigating a research topic under the guidance of an academic tutor.
Environmental Modelling and GIS
20 credits
The aim of this module is to provide you with a critical understanding of different environmental modelling techniques and to develop skills in the selection and application of appropriate models to investigate a range of environmental phenomena.
Environmental Change
20 credits
Within this module, you will examine, interpret and evaluate the evidence for Quaternary environmental change using appropriate proxy techniques and dating methods.
Optional Modules
Frontiers of Ecology
20 credits
This module enables you to examine a diverse range of important contemporary research topics linked to ecology. These will be placed in a broader context by examining conflicting issues and ideas arising from ecological considerations.
Contemporary Issues in Conservation
20 credits
This module enables you to examine a diverse range of important contemporary research topics linked to conservation biology, drawing on the research interests of the teaching staff.
Work-Based Learning
20 credits
This module provides relevant, stimulating and career-orientated experiential learning to encourage you to develop transferable skills relevant to the work environment and to foster initiative and independence of thought.
Coastal and Marine Management
20 credits
The aim of this module is to understand the main sustainability issues surrounding coastal and marine environments. You will study the scientific principles necessary to the efficient and sustainable management of coastal and marine environments and their application in a wide range of local, national and international contexts. You will also be able to develop the practical skills and knowledge required by professional environmental regulators and consultants working in coastal and marine management.
River Monitoring and Management
20 credits
The aim of this module is to introduce and analyse the main water-related legislative and management frameworks that environmental regulators and consultants work within. You will study the application of scientific principles to the management of contemporary river management issues and evaluate the methodologies used to investigate, monitor, manage and improve river environments.
Cold Environments: Processes and Change
20 credits
The aim of this module is to provide you with an opportunity to apply knowledge and skills gained in previous lecture-based modules to a new geographical setting, by carrying out detailed data-collection. You will critically evaluate the importance of field-based observations and analyses within the context of the wider literature and develop a wide range of transferable skills in measurement technique, research design, effective communication and group work.
Renewables and Low Carbon Futures
20 credits
Within this module, you will examine the relationship between energy systems, society and contemporary environmental challenges and how a low-carbon energy future can be achieved. The module will aid your understanding of the environment and social benefits and limitations of different kinds of energy generation resources and technologies. It will also outline the key factors in moving to a 'low-carbon' energy future in a way that is socially equitable and sustainable.
Teaching and work-related learning
Excellent facilities and learning resources
We adopt an active blended learning approach, therefore teaching includes classroom, laboratory and field-based learning. A fully hands-on approach is taken, with emphasis on the development of practical skills across a wide range of subjects alongside substantial knowledge development. GIS and development of computer literacy is an important component.
Support and guidance
Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support
All students are allocated a personal tutor to provide academic support and pastoral guidance throughout all years of study. Tutor groups typically have 5-8 students, and meet for regular (fortnightly) tutorial meetings discussing course material linked to academic and transferable skills with fellow students.
The school is fully committed to promoting a learning environment that supports a culture of equality, diversity and inclusivity (EDI) and has a Disability Support Coordinator, an EDI Coordinator and a School EDI Working Group. Personal Tutors also play a vital role in promoting awareness of support services for students.
Assessment
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
Assessment varies across the course and is scheduled across the semesters. The assessment types will be varied and include in-class tests, essays, scientific reports, oral presentations, poster presentations, blogs, presentations and more. Feedback will be provided following standard university procedure and will include bespoke marking criteria for each assessment type.
Course tutors
Our staff are committed to the highest standards of teaching and learning
Dr Jon Dick
Programme Leader
Jon's background is in Earth Science. He studied BSc (Hons) Geology at the University of Durham and a PhD in Hydrology at the University of Aberdeen. Since completing his PhD, the bulk of Jon's work has focused on hydrology and environmental modelling, however more recently he has branched out into microplastic pollution. Jon's research interests are mainly in the field of hydrology, focusing on how hydrometeorological conditions affect water as it moves through the landscape and the chemistry of that water when it arrives in our rivers.
I absolutely love teaching. Our programmes are heavily practical based. The experience of being able to support students through practical work and see them learn is highly rewarding
Facilities
What you can expect from your School
You will study at the Byrom Street site in the university's City Campus in the heart of Liverpool. You will have access to first class teaching facilities, laboratories and study areas. The Avril Robarts library is within easy walking distance and here you'll find all the information you need to support your studies.
The university reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the university. Where this does happen, the university operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.
Further information on the terms and conditions of any offer made, our admissions policy and the complaints and appeals process.