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At Edith Cowan University (ECU), the Bachelor of Environmental Science prepares you to understand, manage, and solve real environmental challenges using science, fieldwork, and data analysis. It is designed for students who are interested in ecology, conservation, sustainability, and careers that focus on protecting natural environments and supporting environmental decision-making.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In the first year, you build strong scientific foundations through units such as Form and Function in Biology, Physical Environments, Introduction to Environmental Science, and Ecology. These subjects help you understand how natural systems work while developing essential scientific and analytical skills for environmental study.
Year 2
In the second year, you move into more applied environmental learning with units like Environmental Management and Sustainability, Ecological Restoration, Geographical Information Systems, Marine and Freshwater Processes, Soil and Land Processes, and Sustainable Water. This year focuses on real-world environmental systems and introduces important tools used in environmental monitoring and management.
Year 3
In the third year, you gain international exposure through study at the University of Portsmouth in the United Kingdom, completing advanced units such as Climate Change, Conservation Biogeography, Environmental Assessment and Management, Hazardscapes, and Weather Science. This stage strengthens your global understanding of environmental issues and builds advanced research skills.
Year 0.5
In the final year, you return to ECU for advanced, career-focused study through units such as Environmental Investigation and Monitoring, Waste Management, Project Management, and Sustainable Natural Resource Management. This year focuses on applying your knowledge to real environmental problems and developing strong industry-ready skills.
Focus areas
Environmental management, ecology, conservation biology, climate change, sustainability, GIS, environmental assessment, natural resource management, water and soil systems
Learning outcomes
Scientific analysis of environmental systems, fieldwork and data collection, problem-solving for environmental challenges, use of GIS and environmental technologies, communication of scientific findings, teamwork, and understanding of sustainability and Indigenous perspectives in environmental management
Professional alignment (accreditation)
AQF Level 7 Bachelor Degree under the Australian Qualifications Framework
Reputation (employability rankings)
ECU is well recognised for strong teaching quality and student satisfaction, with consistently high national ratings for undergraduate learning experience and practical, industry-focused education.
Experiential learning in the Bachelor of Environmental Science at Edith Cowan University is highly practical and field-focused, giving you real experience in environmental monitoring, ecological surveys, and sustainability work. You will learn through hands-on fieldwork, laboratory investigations, and applied environmental projects using scientific tools and methods commonly used in the industry. The course is designed to help you understand real ecosystems and environmental challenges through direct experience in different natural settings.
Experiential learning includes fieldwork, lab training, and industry-relevant tools and methods:
Fieldwork in natural environments for ecological surveys, biodiversity studies, and environmental monitoring
Training in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for mapping, spatial analysis, and environmental data interpretation
Laboratory sessions for soil testing, water quality analysis, and ecological research
Industry-linked projects focused on environmental management, conservation, and sustainability planning
Work-integrated learning experiences with environmental organisations and industry partners
Use of scientific equipment and environmental monitoring tools for data collection and analysis
Collaborative group projects that simulate real environmental consulting and research work
Access to ECU science laboratories, field equipment, and digital research resources
Field trips to ecosystems such as wetlands, coastal areas, forests, and conservation sites
Development of a professional portfolio through applied environmental investigations and projects
At Edith Cowan University (ECU), the Bachelor of Environmental Science prepares you for careers in environmental protection, sustainability, conservation, and natural resource management. Graduates develop strong scientific and field-based skills that help them analyse environmental issues and contribute to practical solutions in government, consulting, and conservation sectors. Typical roles include environmental scientist, environmental consultant, conservation officer, and environmental management officer.
Progression & Future Opportunities: ECU supports your transition into the workforce through strong industry connections, practical training, and dedicated career support services:
ECU Careers and Employability services provide help with resumes, interview preparation, career planning, and connections with environmental organisations through work-integrated learning
Strong employment preparation through fieldwork, laboratory training, and a required industry placement of around 200 hours in environmental organisations
Industry engagement with government environmental agencies, conservation groups, and environmental consulting firms involved in sustainability and land management
The degree is an AQF Level 7 Bachelor qualification, offering long-term professional recognition in environmental science and sustainability careers in Australia and internationally
Graduates commonly work in environmental consulting, conservation programs, ecosystem management, land rehabilitation, environmental planning, and sustainability roles
ECU’s applied science focus and strong practical learning approach help graduates build job-ready skills and improve employability in environmental fields
Further Academic Progression: After completing this degree, students can continue into postgraduate study such as a Master of Environmental Science, Master of Environmental Management, Master of Sustainability, or other specialised programs in ecology, climate science, conservation, or environmental policy to further enhance their expertise and career opportunities.
This course requires study across multiple locations including City Campus, Joondalup, South West, Sri Lanka, and Online, with both full-time and part-time availability depending on semester and campus.Applicants must meet academic admission requirements through ATAR or equivalent pathways such as AQF Certificate IV, 0.25 EFTSL bachelor-level study, Undergraduate Certificate, STAT, University Preparation Course, Indigenous University Orientation Course, or Experience-Based Entry Scheme.English language Requirements: IELTS Academic Overall band minimum score of 6.0 (no individual band less than 6.0) or TOEFL iBT for Australia minimum 70 with no section below 17; TOEFL tests taken between 26 July 2023 and 4 May 2024 are not accepted, and all results are valid for 2 years.GCE A Levels or equivalent (including International A Levels) required; based on 2–3 A Level subjects with grading A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1; standard entry minimum score 5, higher entry minimum score 8.International Baccalaureate (IB): Diploma required with minimum 24 pointsGraduates of the Bachelor of Environmental Science at ECU typically earn a median starting salary of around AUD 65,000–80,000 per year in entry-level environmental and sustainability roles in Australia.India: Higher Secondary Certificate (from a recognised board; Punjab and Haryana State Boards not accepted) or equivalent required; standard entry minimum 70%, higher entry minimum 80%.China: National College Entrance Exam (Gao Kao) or one year of tertiary study required; standard entry minimum 65.6% overall score, higher entry 70% overall score.United States of America: High School Diploma required with ACT (standard 24, higher 29 with no section below 20) or SAT (pre-2016: 1500/2400 standard, 1875 higher; post-2016: 1090/1600 standard, 1330 higher with required section minimums), or AP pathway (minimum 2 AP subjects with 7 points for standard entry or 8 points for higher entry; English AP score 3 required in Language or Literature).Environmental OfficerEnvironmental ConsultantCatchment OfficerNatural Resource OfficerEnvironmental Management OfficerConservation Field OfficerLand Management OfficerLandcare OfficerEnvironmental Educator
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