Use science to solve environmental problems.
In a changing climate, the ability to solve environmental problems with science is more critical than ever. Environmental scientists help businesses and governments understand and make informed decisions about the preservation of natural ecosystems and resources, and how to balance the needs of humans and the natural world.
- 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.
- Campus note: Only first-year courses are offered at Fraser Coast in 2018.
- Campus note: Only first-year courses are offered at Fraser Coast in 2018.
In a changing climate, the ability to solve environmental problems with science is more critical than ever. Environmental scientists help businesses and governments understand and make informed decisions about the preservation of natural ecosystems and resources, and how to balance the needs of humans and the natural world.
- Learn about plant and animal ecology, chemistry, hydrology, Earth sciences, weather and climate, geospatial sciences and resource economics
- Study the interaction between natural and human-managed environments, and develop skills in environmental management, conservation and restoration
- Use advanced visualisation facilities, spatial analysis and drones to gain industry-ready skills
- Build practical knowledge through field trips to USC research sites, including a diverse range of environments on the beautiful Sunshine Coast and Fraser Coast
Career opportunities
Environmental scientists work across a range of industries and sectors, including: environmental management and protection, restoration and conservation, parks and wildlife, resource management, waste and pollution control, catchment management agencies, local councils, environmental consultancies.
Membership
This program qualifies you for associate membership of the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ). Other memberships include the Australian Network for Plant Conservation; Australian Water Association; Ecological Society of Australia; and Australian Marine Sciences Association.
Program structure
Introductory courses (5) 60 units
COR109 International Marketing
ENS103 Food Marketing
SCI102 Sport and Event Marketing
SCI105 Communication and Thought
SCI110 Earth's Surface Processes
Developing and Graduate courses (11) 132 units
ENS221 Biodiversity and Ecology
ENS222 Chemistry
ENS224 Science Research Methods
ENS242 Plant Diversity and Ecology
ENS253 Terrestrial Vertebrate Diversity and Ecology
ENS321 Soil Properties, Processes and Rehabilitation
ENS325 Introduction to Weather and Climate
GEO201 An Introduction to Geographic Information Science and Technology
GEO302 Restoration Ecology
PLUS select 1 course (12 units) from:
ANM203 Population Ecology and Genetics
SCI202 Hydrology and Geomorphology
PLUS select 1 course (12 units) from:
ENS330 Coastal Geomorphology
ENS333 Statistics with Teeth: Understanding Ecological Data
SRP301 Advanced Research Methods and Statistics
WPL310 K'gari-Fraser Island Field Studies
Minor (4) 48 units
- Animal Ecology
- Climate Change Adaptation
- Coastal and Marine Environments
- Environmental Geography
- Environmental Management
- Geospatial Analysis
- Journalism
- Mathematics
- Restoration and Conservation
- Sustainability
Elective courses (4) 48 units
Select 4 elective courses (48 units) 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.
A program may not be offered in full at each location
Total units: 288
Program requirements and notes
Program requirements
In order to graduate you must:
- Successfully complete 288 units as outlined in the Program Structure
Program notes
- Completing this program within the specified (full-time) duration is based on studying 48 unit points per semester (normally 4 courses) and following the recommended study sequence
- The unit value of all courses is 12 units unless otherwise specified
- It is each students responsibility to enrol correctly according to your course requisites, program rules and requirements and be aware of the academic calendar dates
- 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 Managing your progression page for help in understanding your program structure, reviewing your progress and planning remaining courses.
- Apply for your selected major(s) and/or minor(s)