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, restoration and conservation, 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
Introductory courses (5)
COR109
ENS103
SCI102
SCI105
SCI110
Advanced courses (11)
ENS221
ENS222
ENS224
ENS242
ENS253
ENS321
ENS325
GEO201
GEO302
PLUS select 1 course from:
ANM203
SCI202
PLUS select 1 course from:
ENS330
ENS333
SRP301
WPL310
Minor (4)
- Animal Ecology
- Climate Change Adaptation
- Coastal and Marine Environments
- Environmental Geography
- Environmental Management
- Geospatial Analysis
- Journalism
- Mathematics
- Restoration and Conservation
- Sustainability
Elective courses (4)
Select 4 elective courses from either faculty (Arts, Business and Law or Science, Health, Education and Engineering).
Note: Program structures are subject to change. 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:
- Successfully complete 288 units as outlined in the Program Structure
- Complete no more than 10 introductory level (100 coded) courses, including core courses
Program notes
- Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses)
- Most courses are valued at 12 units unless otherwise specified
- Courses within this program are assessed using a variety of assessment methods which may include essays, seminar presentations, reports, in-class tests and examinations
- As part of your USC program, you may apply to Study Overseas to undertake courses with an overseas higher education provider
- Only a full-time study option is available to international students on a Student Visa
- Refer to the Planning your study page to manage your progression
- You may wish to use electives to complete an additional major or minor
- Register your selected major(s) and/or minor(s)