BSc Environmental Engineering and Geoscience

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Birmingham

Program Overview

The BSc Environmental Engineering and Geoscience program provides an integrated understanding of both Earth systems and environmental engineering solutions, ideal for students interested in tackling real-world environmental challenges. It suits those who want to combine scientific insight with practical engineering skills to analyze, design, and manage sustainable solutions for the natural environment.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students gain a strong foundation in both geoscience and engineering principles through modules such as Introduction to Environmental Engineering, Earth Materials, and Geological Field Skills. The focus is on understanding fundamental Earth processes, material properties, and developing practical field and laboratory techniques.

Year 2: The curriculum advances into applied topics including Hydrology and Water Resources, Structural Geology, and Environmental Modelling. Students engage in laboratory experiments, computer simulations, and group projects that develop problem-solving and analytical skills in real-world contexts.

Year 3: Students specialize in integrated applications with modules such as Environmental Geotechnics, Contaminant Hydrogeology, and Sustainable Engineering Solutions, alongside a substantial independent research project. This year emphasizes professional practice, critical thinking, and preparing for employment or further study.


Focus Areas : Environmental engineering, geoscience, hydrology, geotechnics, environmental management, fieldwork, laboratory analysis, sustainability, contaminant assessment.

Learning Outcomes : Ability to integrate geoscience and engineering principles, apply practical and computational methods, conduct independent research, evaluate environmental risks, and design sustainable solutions.

Professional Alignment : The program is aligned with professional standards for environmental engineering and geoscience, supporting pathways into accredited engineering or geoscience careers.

Reputation : The University of Birmingham is recognised for its strong research and teaching in Earth and Environmental sciences, with excellent graduate employability outcomes reported in official university statistics and league tables such as QS and Guardian.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BSc Environmental Engineering and Geoscience program at the University of Birmingham emphasizes hands-on learning and practical skills development, ensuring students graduate ready to tackle real-world environmental challenges. From the first year, students engage in laboratory work, field studies, and data analysis, building confidence in interpreting geological and engineering data. As the program progresses, they participate in advanced research projects and collaborative tasks, gaining exposure to industry-standard tools and techniques that are directly relevant to environmental and geoscience careers.

This practical approach is reinforced through a combination of modern facilities, expert-led guidance, and immersive field experiences, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in meaningful, professional contexts:

  • Software tools: GIS (Geographic Information Systems), AutoCAD, MATLAB, and geotechnical modelling software to analyze environmental and geological data.

  • Group projects: Collaborative problem-solving exercises, including design and sustainability projects addressing real environmental issues.

  • Internships & placements: Opportunities for industry placements and work-based projects with engineering and environmental consultancies.

  • Digital resources: Access to specialized databases, online modeling tools, and virtual labs to simulate field and laboratory scenarios.

  • Field trips: Regular fieldwork across diverse geological sites, river basins, and urban environments to study soil, water, and rock systems in situ.

  • Laboratories: Dedicated geotechnical, environmental, and analytical laboratories for soil testing, hydrogeology, and rock analysis.

  • Libraries & research institutes: Access to the University of Birmingham’s Main Library, Earth and Environmental Sciences resources, and partnerships with institutes like the Birmingham Energy Institute.

  • Additional facilities: Environmental monitoring equipment, 3D modeling labs, and instrumentation for water quality and structural testing.

These resources ensure students gain both technical proficiency and professional experience, bridging the gap between academic study and careers in environmental engineering and geoscience.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BSc Environmental Engineering and Geoscience program leave with a strong blend of technical, analytical, and field-based skills, preparing them for diverse careers in both engineering and environmental science sectors. Typical roles include Environmental Consultant, Geotechnical Engineer, Hydrogeologist, and Sustainability Analyst, with graduates equipped to work in industry, government, or research environments. This combination of practical experience and theoretical knowledge ensures a smooth transition into professional roles or further study:

  • University Employability Support: Birmingham’s Careers Network offers one-to-one guidance, industry mentoring, and internship placement support tailored for geoscience and environmental engineering students.

  • Employment Statistics & Salaries: Graduates report high employability, with many securing roles within six months of graduation; typical starting salaries range between £25,000–£35,000, depending on sector and role.

  • University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with engineering consultancies, environmental agencies, and energy companies provide students with real-world projects, networking, and work placement opportunities.

  • Accreditation Value: The program is aligned with professional standards from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and Geological Society of London (GSL), enhancing recognition and employability worldwide.

  • Graduation Outcomes: Graduates frequently enter sectors such as environmental consultancy, civil engineering, geotechnical surveying, and sustainability-focused roles, demonstrating strong career engagement across industries.


Further Academic Progression:
Students may pursue postgraduate opportunities such as MSc Environmental Engineering, Hydrogeology, Geotechnical Engineering, or interdisciplinary research programs. Graduates can also explore professional chartership routes, research assistant positions, or advanced applied projects in collaboration with industry partners.

Program Key Stats

£29,160 (Annual cost)
£9,535 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


60 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

ABB
3.2
32
75

N/A
N/A
6.0
80

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Environmental consultant
  • geotechnical engineer
  • water resources engineer
  • sustainability analyst
  • environmental project manager
  • hydrogeologist
  • soil scientist
  • climate change analyst
  • environmental planner
  • research scientist

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