5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The MEnv (Hons) Environmental Science with a placement year at the University of York is designed for students passionate about understanding and addressing complex environmental challenges. It suits those eager to combine scientific knowledge with practical experience, equipping them to influence real-world environmental solutions through a mix of fieldwork, laboratory research, and industry exposure.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Students build a strong foundation in environmental science, exploring core concepts in ecology, environmental chemistry, and Earth systems. Key modules include Foundations in Environmental Science, Global Environmental Systems, and Introduction to Ecology, providing essential skills in data collection, observation, and analytical thinking.
Year 2: The focus shifts to more specialised topics, integrating laboratory techniques and GIS mapping alongside environmental assessment. Modules such as Environmental Monitoring and Data Analysis, Earth Surface Processes, and Biodiversity and Conservation help students develop practical and technical skills for real-world environmental problem-solving.
Year 3 (Placement Year): Students undertake a full-year placement within industry, government, or research institutions, gaining hands-on experience in professional environmental settings. This immersive year allows them to apply classroom learning, develop workplace skills, and build industry connections.
Year 4: Returning from their placement, students deepen their understanding of environmental systems and management. Core modules like Environmental Policy and Governance, Climate Change Science, and Environmental Research Project enable students to critically evaluate environmental challenges and solutions while conducting independent research.
Year 5: The final year focuses on advanced, interdisciplinary topics and a substantial research dissertation. Students work on Applied Environmental Science, Sustainable Resource Management, and Capstone Project, synthesising fieldwork, lab analysis, and industry knowledge to produce evidence-based solutions to environmental issues.
Focus Areas: Environmental management, climate science, sustainability, ecological conservation, environmental policy.
Learning Outcomes: Gain proficiency in field and laboratory techniques, apply scientific reasoning to complex environmental problems, develop professional skills through industry experience, and communicate environmental solutions effectively.
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Accredited by relevant environmental and scientific professional bodies, enhancing employability and recognition in environmental careers.
Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of York is consistently ranked among the top UK universities for environmental and Earth sciences, with strong graduate employment outcomes.
The MEnv (Hons) Environmental Science with a placement year at the University of York is designed to give students a rich blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, preparing them for impactful careers in environmental science. Throughout the program, students gain deep insights into ecological processes, climate change, and sustainable management, while developing the practical skills needed to tackle real-world environmental challenges.
Students benefit from extensive experiential learning opportunities that combine fieldwork, laboratory research, and industry exposure:
Access to York’s dedicated environmental laboratories, including GIS and geochemistry facilities, for advanced data collection and analysis.
Participation in field trips across diverse UK landscapes to study ecosystems, water systems, and environmental impacts firsthand.
Group projects and collaborative research exercises that simulate real-world environmental problem-solving.
Use of specialist software such as ArcGIS and environmental modeling tools for spatial analysis and scenario planning.
Placement year with industry partners, giving students direct professional experience and networking opportunities.
Access to the university’s libraries, research institutes, and digital databases for in-depth study and research support.
Graduates of the MEnv (Hons) Environmental Science with a placement year at the University of York are well-prepared to enter a wide range of environmental and sustainability-focused careers. They leave with strong scientific knowledge, practical experience from their placement year, and transferable skills such as data analysis, field research, and project management. Typical roles include environmental consultant, sustainability officer, conservation scientist, and environmental policy advisor:
University services for employment: York Careers offers tailored support including CV workshops, interview preparation, industry networking events, and placement year support.
Employment stats and salary figures: Over 90% of York graduates secure employment or further study within six months; typical starting salaries for environmental science roles range from £22,000–£30,000.
University–industry partnerships: Collaborations with environmental consultancies, NGOs, local authorities, and government agencies provide students with placement opportunities and industry insights.
Long-term accreditation value: The program is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES), enhancing professional recognition.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates gain a combination of academic knowledge, practical skills, and professional experience that makes them highly competitive in environmental sectors.
Further Academic Progression: Graduates can continue their studies with a master’s degree in environmental science, sustainability, climate change, or ecological management. They may also pursue research-focused degrees (MRes/PhD) or professional certifications in environmental consultancy, policy, or engineering, building on the practical and theoretical foundation developed during the MEnv program.



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