St. Mary's

Environmental Science

Is this course for me?

Environmental Science is a modern A-level that is increasingly more relevant in the world that we live in today. It is a flexible A level that focuses on the relationship between humans and the environment. This course is designed for those who are interested in how our choices impact the environment and sustainability. This is a course which builds upon knowledge from both GCSE Biology and Chemistry. It enables the development of many transferable skills including problem solving, research skills, evaluation of information and data analysis.

A level Environmental Science compliments subjects such as Geography and would also be accepted as an additional science for University courses.

Areas of Study

Environmental Science covers the topics:

  • The living environment.
    • Life on Earth, Conservation, Biodiversity and life processes.
  • The physical environment.
    • Atmosphere, Hydrosphere, Lithosphere, soil and cycles.
  • Energy resources.
    • How we utilise natural resources and the impact this can have on the wider environment.
  • Biological resources.
    • Agriculture, aquatic and forest resources.
  • Sustainability.
  • Research methods.

In addition to your academic study, you will complete at least 2 days of field trips as well as in school experiments where you will put all your theory into practice.

Assessment

This course is assessed by 100% exams. You will sit two exams at the end of year 13. These exams have both short response questions and a 25 mark essay question.

Future Opportunities

As the course is multi-disciplinary it would naturally allow progression on to a wide variety of higher education courses or employment opportunities. This includes degree options such as Geography, Geology, Marine Science, Climate Studies or a degree in Environmental Science. It can also lead to employment opportunities within the field of study such as sustainability officer, waste management and recycling officers.

Exam board – AQA