BSc (Hons) Environmental Management with Foundation Year

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Salford

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Environmental Management with Foundation Year at the University of Salford is designed for students who are passionate about tackling real-world environmental challenges but may not yet meet the standard entry requirements. This program builds a strong foundation in science and sustainability before moving into specialist environmental management topics, preparing students for impactful careers in protecting and improving our planet.


Curriculum Structure:
During the foundation year, students develop essential knowledge in biology, chemistry, environmental science, and mathematics — ensuring they are well-prepared for degree-level study. Modules such as Study Skills, Introduction to Environmental Science, and Foundations of Biology and Chemistry help students build confidence and academic skills.

In year one, students are introduced to key environmental principles, learning how ecosystems function and how human activities influence them. Core subjects like Earth Systems, Environmental Management, Sustainability and Society, and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) help students understand the balance between economic development and environmental protection.

By year two, the focus shifts to practical and analytical skills through modules such as Environmental Impact Assessment, Environmental Monitoring and Modelling, and Pollution Control. Students engage in fieldwork and lab-based investigations, developing hands-on experience that mirrors professional practice.

In the final year, students apply their expertise to real-world issues through advanced modules such as Environmental Policy and Law, Climate Change Adaptation, and a major Independent Research Project. This capstone year enables them to design solutions to sustainability challenges faced by communities and industries today.


Focus Areas: Sustainability, climate change, pollution control, environmental policy, environmental assessment, and resource management.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will gain a strong understanding of environmental systems, develop analytical and problem-solving skills, and learn how to implement sustainable practices and policy frameworks in real-world contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is aligned with professional standards in the environmental sector and prepares students for membership with organizations such as the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) and the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM).

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Salford is recognized for its strong industry connections and practical, career-focused teaching. It ranks among the top UK universities for graduate employability and is widely respected for its applied approach to environmental and sustainability education.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Salford, the BSc (Hons) Environmental Management with Foundation Year places a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, ensuring students graduate with real-world experience and professional skills. From the very first year, students engage in fieldwork, lab experiments, and group projects that mirror the challenges faced by environmental professionals. Learning takes place in an applied setting, using cutting-edge tools and facilities that help students explore environmental data, assess sustainability impacts, and develop solutions for real environmental issues.

Students benefit from the University’s industry-focused approach and access to advanced technologies, field trips, and collaborative projects that strengthen both technical expertise and teamwork. Here’s how the program brings learning to life:

  • Field Trips and Site Visits: Students take part in local and regional field excursions, exploring ecosystems, industrial sites, and conservation areas to apply classroom learning to real environments.

  • Specialised Laboratories: The program makes use of Salford’s Environmental and Life Sciences Laboratories, where students conduct experiments in pollution analysis, environmental chemistry, and ecological assessment.

  • GIS and Environmental Software: Learners gain experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other digital mapping tools used for environmental planning and management.

  • Industry and Community Projects: Collaborative projects with local councils, environmental agencies, and private organisations allow students to work on genuine sustainability challenges.

  • Sustainability Hub and Research Centres: Students can connect with the University’s Sustainability Hub and research groups focusing on environmental monitoring, green infrastructure, and climate adaptation.

  • Peel Park Campus and Clifford Whitworth Library: The beautiful campus provides easy access to green spaces for field studies and a modern library with extensive digital resources to support independent research.

Through this immersive learning experience, students not only gain a deep understanding of environmental systems but also develop the professional and analytical skills that make them career-ready from day one.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BSc (Hons) Environmental Management with Foundation Year at the University of Salford go on to rewarding careers across environmental consultancy, policy development, and sustainability management. The program is designed to equip students with practical, analytical, and leadership skills highly valued in industries working toward a greener future. Typical roles include Environmental Consultant, Sustainability Officer, Environmental Protection Officer, and Environmental Policy Advisor.

Students benefit from the university’s strong professional connections and career-focused support, which help them build a clear path to employment:

  • Career Support: The Salford Careers and Enterprise Team offers one-to-one career guidance, CV development workshops, and access to exclusive internships and graduate placements.

  • Employment Outcomes: A large percentage of graduates from Salford’s environmental programs secure employment or further study within six months of graduation, reflecting the university’s strong employability record.

  • Industry Partnerships: The university collaborates with organisations such as United Utilities, the Environment Agency, and Natural England, giving students opportunities for placements, live projects, and networking.

  • Accreditation Value: The degree is aligned with professional bodies like the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) and CIWEM, which adds long-term professional recognition and supports graduates in becoming chartered environmental professionals.

  • Graduate Reputation: Salford graduates are known for their ability to combine technical expertise with real-world insight, making them attractive candidates for roles in government, consultancy, and sustainability sectors.


Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can progress to postgraduate study in fields such as Environmental Management, Sustainability, or Environmental Engineering. Many graduates also choose to specialise further through a master’s or research degree, deepening their expertise and enhancing their career prospects in leadership and consultancy roles.

Program Key Stats

£18,120 (Annual cost)
£9,535 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

3.0
26
70

N/A
N/A
6.0
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Environmental Scientist
  • Environmental Consultant
  • Environmental Engineer
  • Conservation Officer
  • Sustainability Specialist
  • Environmental Educator
  • Climate Policy Analyst
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Environmental Attorney
  • and Waste Management Officer

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