Climate change has been a feature throughout the Earth’s past, and is now also taking place in response to human activity. It is one of the most pressing, and one of the more complex, problems facing society in the 21st century.
This newly launched innovative degree programme will provide a thorough and comprehensive grounding in the physical science basis of climate change in the past, present and future; delivered by internationally recognised experts in their fields.
The emphasis is on the underpinning scientific drivers of climate change, with consideration given to the societal impacts from, and in response to, climate change.
The Year in North America programme involves four years of study with the first two years at UEA following the BSc Climate Sciences programme. The third year is spent at a University abroad. You return for your fourth year to UEA and complete the final year modules from the BSc Climate Sciences.
In the first year you will take an holistic view of the Earth system, while also developing the necessary mathematical, dynamical, chemical, and study skills to embark on the subsequent honours years. After the first year you will concentrate on the scientific subjects required to study the underlying causes of climate change, such as meteorology, physical oceanography, atmospheric and marine chemistry, biogeochemical cycling, life systems, and paleoclimatology. You will also continue to hone your mathematical, research, and presentational skills. Although some core elements of the programme are compulsory, there is sufficient flexibility for you to place greater emphasis in certain areas (for example meteorology, or earth system modeling).
This course has been provisionally accredited by the Royal Meteorological Society as a first degree which satisfies their academic requirements for Chartered Meteorologist status.
Graduates of the degree in Climate Science will have a sound foundation for careers in academia, in research organisations, in government agencies and local authorities, and in environmental consultancies, amongst others. We also anticipate that many will continue to graduate training at Masters or Doctoral level.
Prof Bill Sturges
Environmental science is a rapidly progressing, vibrant and exciting field of study with excellent career prospects in the UK and beyond.
Environmental Science is a modern scientific discipline that will have a profound effect on human society as environmental concerns become paramount at the beginning of the 21st century.
A human population of over 6 billion demands energy, transport, and technology, while climate change threatens the security of the most vulnerable peoples on the planet. Management of pollution and waste is essential to protect human health. Global environment change is eroding the planets biological diversity. Natural hazards threaten infrequent but catastrophic disasters.
Solving these urgent problems requires the expertise of trained environmental scientists. In ENV you will be trained to understand the complex interactions of human society with the bio-geosphere and to provide solutions for enhanced industry and sustainable economies. Inter-disciplinary scientists are needed to communicate the solutions and influence policy at local, national and global scales.
Volcanology, seismology, ecology, conservation, meteorology, oceanography, environmental economics, environmental politics, geochemistry, soil science, climate change and energy resources are just a few of the subjects you could study. Whether you choose to study a broad range of the environmental sciences or specialise in one field, you can be sure that your degree will be challenging and inspiring from beginning to end.
In the 2012 National Student Survey, the School of Environmental Sciences at UEA gained a 96% satisfaction rate, putting the department at joint 5th in the UK, above universities like Southampton and Exeter. Teaching was a particular highlight of the survey, and as a School, Environmental Sciences came in joint 2nd with a rating of 97% satisfaction.
This module studies the physical processes occurring in the atmosphere and ocean, with emphasis on the links between the two. Radiation from the Sun and its effect on the Earth. Structure and circulation of the atmosphere. Ocean currents and the thermohaline circulation. Hydrostatic equation and pressure forces. Stability, air masses and fronts. Coriolis force and geostrophy. The effect of the wind on the ocean. Hydrological cycle. If you have not taken 1A25 Forces of Nature, a little background reading will help on concepts such as pressure, density, buoyancy and Coriolis force. Taught in the second half of semester.
Briefly introduces a wide range of major topics in conservation ecology, coupled with concepts relevant to the structure and functioning of the rapidly changing biosphere, from ecosystem, through community, population, behavioural, physiological to molecular ecology and conservation genetics. PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO STUDENTS REGISTERED IN THE SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES, AND ECOLOGY STUDENTS. Taught in second half of semester.
The structure and behaviour of our dynamic planet are investigated. The module is underpinned by the theory of Plate Tectonics as a means of explaining Earth’s remarkable physiographic features, such as mountain belts and volcanoes and it also considers how processes of erosion and deposition modify them. The Module will introduce geological time and the 4.6 billion year record of changing conditions. It will introduce geological materials, resources and hazards. No prior knowledge of geology is assumed.
The understanding of natural systems and environmental technologies is often underpinned by physical laws and processes. ‘Forces of nature’ explores the most important of these (energy, mechanics, physical properties of Earth materials) and their relevance to environmental science using examples from across the Earth’s differing systems. This module forms an important building block for many modules that follow it.
What are the most pressing environmental challenges facing the world today? How do we understand these problems through cutting-edge environmental science research? What are the possibilities for building sustainable solutions to address them in policy and society? In this module you will tackle these questions by taking an interdisciplinary approach to consider challenges relating to climate change, biodiversity, water resources, natural hazards, and technological risks. In doing so you will gain an insight into environmental science research ‘in action’ and develop essential academic study skills needed to explore these issues. Please note this module is only available for ENV students and BIO Ecology students only.
This module is designed for those students with good maths and a Grade C or above in 'A' level Mathematics. Topics include differentiation and integration, Taylor and Maclaurin series, complex numbers, vector algebra, partial differentiations. Previous knowledge of calculus is assumed.
This module is the second in a series of four mathematical modules for students across the Faculty of Science. It continues the basic calculus of ENV-1A61 into the study of ordinary differential equations that are used to mathematically model many different systems across the sciences, and the use of further integrals to calculate lengths of lines, surface areas, and volumes. Power series expansions are used to represent and simplify functions, and an introduction to complex numbers is given. There is a continuing emphasis on applied examples, and the use of numerical computing software (Matlab).
This module introduces a range of transferable skills, tools and data resources that are widely used in research across the Environmental Sciences. The aim is to provide a broad understanding of the research process by undertaking different activities that involve i) formulating research questions, ii) collecting data using appropriate sources and techniques, iii) collating and evaluating information and iv) presenting results. The module will include the use of GPS, satellite remote sensing and digital mapping technologies, whilst also emphasising self and peer assessment of research activities.
This module builds upon the range of transferable skills and techniques introduced in Research & Field Skills 1. There are two main components. The first will introduce the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS), explaining the main analysis techniques with applications from across the Environmental Sciences. The second component will be a 6 day fieldcourse to be held at Slapton Ley, Devon during the last week of the Easter break. During the fieldcourse students will have the opportunity to apply skills learnt earlier in other modules, gain experience with new field techniques and undertake a small group project of their own choice. Assessment of the fieldcourse will be based on a poster presentation of this project work. THIS MODULE IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO STUDENTS REGISTERED IN THE SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES. Taught in the first half of semester.
Striking a balance between societal development, economic growth and environmental protection has proven difficult and controversial. The terms ‘sustainability’ and ‘sustainable development’ have been used in attempts to reconcile these three areas. Yet the ill-defined and contradictory nature of these concepts has also hampered their implementation. This module considers sustainability in theory and practice by examining the relationships between environment and society, through the contributions of a variety of social science disciplines. Taught in the first half of semester.
Option A Study (10 credits)
Students will select 10 credits from the following modules:
This module provides an introduction to chemical processes in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, seawater, soils, sediments and rocks. Both the natural and anthropogenically perturbed system will be considered. This module assumes no previous chemical knowledge and will include a basic chemistry component. Students with previous experience of chemistry (A, AS level or equivalent) should take Environmental Chemistry 2.
This module provides an introduction to chemical processes in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, seawater, soils, sediments and rocks. Both the natural and anthropogenically perturbed system will be considered. Students taking this module are expected to have previous experience of Chemistry at A, AS Levels or equivalent. Taught in the second half of semester.
Compulsory Study (40 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 40 credits:
Atmospheric chemistry and global change are in the news: stratospheric ozone depletion, acid rain, climate change, photochemical smog, global-scale air pollution, etc. This module covers the fundamental chemical principles and processes involving gases and particles in Earth’s changing atmosphere. It comprises lectures, problem solving classes, practical and computing labs, as well as a field trip to UEA's own atmospheric observatory in Weybourne/North Norfolk.
Coursework does not include fieldwork. See ENVF2A23. This module is designed to give a general introduction to meteorology, concentrating on the physical processes in the atmosphere and how these influence our weather. The module contains both descriptive and mathematical treatments of Radiation Balance, The General Circulation, Thermodynamics and Dynamics and the assessment is designed to allow those with either mathematical or descriptive abilities to do well; however a reasonable mathematical competence is essential.
Option A Study (40 credits)
Students will select 40 credits from the following modules:
Covers the major processes that set the chemical composition of the oceans, the distribution of nutrient, and carbon, the distribution of life in the oceans and the interaction of the oceans and atmosphere. how this interacts with the atmosphere to maintain the global environment of the Earth. Elements of physical oceanography and ocean circulation, of geochemistry, marine biology and global change science are covered.
Examines how the earth system and its geochemical cycling operate on both global and micro scales. Emphasis is on natural cycles, starting with big themes such as crust-hydrosphere-biosphere interaction and its effects on the long term C cycle, including regulation of carbon dioxide. Elements, isotopes, organic molecules (and their isotopic compositions) are used as tracers of processes and events in earth history. Organic matter, its chemistry and its relationship to both the C and S cycles is explored. Dating of geological materials with radiometric methods is introduced. The course explores themes in both deep time (millions of years) and more recent glacial-interglacial cycles (thousands to hundreds of thousands of years).
This module contains mathematical techniques applicable to a wide range of ENV modules. Among topics covered: matrix algebra, linear equations and eigenvectors, numerical methods, vector fields, Maple programming and complex variables.
This module will build upon the material covered in ENV-2A23 (Meteorology I) covering topics such as synoptic meteorology, micro-scale processes, the General Circulation and weather forecasting.
This module will build upon material covered in ENV-2A23 (Meteorology I) covering topics such as synoptic meteorology, micro-scale processes, the General Circulation and weather forecasting. The module also includes a week long Easter vacation residential fieldcourse, based in the Lake District, focusing on micrometeorology, microclimate and synoptic processes.
This module gives you an understanding of the physical processes occurring in the basin-scale ocean environment. We will introduce and discuss large scale global ocean circulation, including gyres, boundary currents and the overturning circulation. Major themes include the interaction between ocean and atmosphere, and the forces which drive ocean circulation. You should be familiar with partial differentiation, integration, handling equations and using calculators. Co-taught with ENV-MA39
Option B Study (20 credits)
Students will select 20 credits from the following modules:
In this module you will acquire the generic work-ready skills relevant to graduate level employment in the Environmental business sector. The module objectives and content is shaped by consultation with managers of business in the Environmental Sciences sector including Local Government, Providers of Environmental Services and Utilities, Energy Exploration, Sustainable Energy Resources, Conservation and Not-for-profit organisations. These highly desirable work-ready skills that are currently lacking in the majority of graduate students will be taught through a theoretical understanding and supported by practice of skills through environmental case studies that include sessions led by guest speakers associated with a range of Environmental business.
This module is designed to teach skills necessary for the acquisition of good quality chemical data in environmental systems, and in the interpretation of this data. The module will focus on the collection of environmental samples for chemical analysis, methods of chemical analysis and the analytical and mathematical techniques used for data quality control. There will be a large component of practical work. This module will be particularly relevant for those wishing to do a chemistry-related project later in their degree. Taught in the first half of the semester.
This module focuses on the practical use of GIS for dissertations. After an introductory ‘refresher’ of GIS basics it will review the different techniques that can be used to create and edit data in a GIS, as well as existing digital databases from which map data can be extracted and downloaded. Particular attention will be given to Ordnance Survey mapping for the UK, but other international resources will also be discussed. The module will emphasise issues of error and uncertainty as they apply to spatial data and introduce the use of the ArcGIS ModelBuilder as a way of documenting and efficiently repeating more complex analysis procedures. Assessment will be through a small group project involving the download, integration, analysis and display of spatial data. Taught in the second half of the semester.
This module shows how mathematics can be applied to the environment. Topics include: fluid dynamics, partial differential equations, waves, Fourier analysis, applications of solid mechanics to geophysics, including stress, strain and elasticity.
Free Choice Study (20 credits)
Students will select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School
Compulsory Study (120 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 120 credits:
The project is an independent piece of research. With guidance from a supervisor, each student chooses a topic, designs the research and collects, analyses and interprets data. The student is expected to report on progress at various stages: in the selection of a topic, the detailed plan, an interim report and an oral presentation. A final report in the form of a dissertation not exceeding 10,000 words is required, together with a research poster which summarises the main aspects of the work. This module is compulsory for several degree courses in the School of Environmental Sciences and is restricted to Environmental Sciences students.
Option A Study (60 credits)
Students will select 60 credits from the following modules:
Emissions of gases and other pollutants from human activities are critical drivers of phenomena such as climate change, stratospheric ozone depletion, degradation of air quality in urban and rural areas, long-range transport of air pollution, and changes in aerosol and cloud physical properties. To understand these impacts it is necessary to make atmospheric measurements of chemical composition and physical parameters, and to interpret these observations with a range of statistical, conceptual, and computer-based models. In this module you will be introduced to a range of modern atmospheric measurements techniques, both those used in the field and in the laboratory. Consideration will be given to the relevant chemical and physical processes that are required to understand these observations. You will also learn about a range of interpretive techniques including numerical models, and you will put some of these in to practice.
Climate change and variability has played a major role in shaping human history and the prospect of a warming world as a result of human activities (global warming) presents society with an increasing challenge over the coming decades. This module covers the science of climate change, our current understanding of anthropogenic effects on climate, and the uncertainties/limitations of our scientific knowledge. It provides details about the approaches, methods and techniques for understanding the history of climate change and for developing climate projections for the next 100 years, supporting further study of the scientific or policy aspects of the subject in either an academic or applied context. Co-taught with ENV-MA49.
This course applies fluid dynamics to the study of the circulation of the oceans. Topics studied include: geostrophic flow, Ekman layers, wind driven circulation, western boundary currents (e.g. the Gulf Steam), abyssal circulation, Rossby waves, Kelvin waves, Equatorial dynamics, Southern Ocean dynamics.
This module introduces Earth system science, taking a top-down approach to the Earth as a whole system, and tracing its development since its formation 4.5 billion years ago. The main focus is on the coupled evolution of life and its environment through a series of revolutions. Theoretical approaches are introduced, including Gaia, feedback mechanisms and systems theory, and practical sessions use models to build up conceptual understanding. The subject is inherently inter-disciplinary, including aspects of biology, chemistry and physics, and unifying the study of climate and global biogeochemical cycles. Co-taught with ENV-MA38.
Geological, economic and political aspects of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas and coal) are introduced. These are used to discuss environmental concerns arising from the use of fossil fuels, and the potentially profound implications of future fuel scarcity. This module is suitable for students taking degrees in the School of Environmental Sciences. Some knowledge of Earth Science will be expected. Before taking this module you must take or be taking at least 20 credits or Earth Science or Geophysics modules at honours level.
An exploration of both the scientific causes of global environmental change and the integrative and complex nature of the societal response to such changes. An examination of attempts to predict future trends in the global environmental over the next few centuries. Topics covered include climate change, the carbon cycle, global pollution, and sea level rise. Group projects will tackle multi-disciplinary topics within these areas, using research literature and by interaction with researchers currently in these fields.
The aim of the module is to show how geophysical problems may be solved from the initial problem, to mathematical formulation and numerical solution. Problems will be described conceptually, then defined mathematically, then solved numerically via computer programming. The module consists of lectures on numerical methods and computing practicals (Matlab): the practicals being designed to illustrate the solution of problems using the methods covered in lectures. The module will guide students through the solution of a geophysical problem of their own choosing. The problem will be discussed and placed into context through an essay, and then solved and written up in a project report.
This module investigates the geological evidence for major environmental changes through Earth history. It will explore selected topics that relate to the extent, timing and causes of past variations of climate as expressed through changes in the fossil and geological record. Lectures will draw on information from marine, ice core, terrestrial and lacustrine climate archives. Radiometric dating techniques and geochemical/quantitative methods of palaeoenvironmental reconstruction will be examined in practical classes. The module includes half-day excursions to examine key geological field sites in East Anglia. Co-taught with ENV-MA58. STUDENTS MUST TAKE EITHER ENV-2A30 EARTH SYSTEM GEOCHEMISTRY OR ENV-2A25 SEDIMENTOLOGY PRIOR TO TAKING THIS MODULE
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the greenhouse gas which has, by far, the greatest impact on climate change. CO2 is becoming even more important owing to continued fossil fuel emissions and its very long lifetime in the atmosphere. Predicting future climate or defining ‘dangerous’ climate change is challenging, in large part because the Earth’s carbon cycle is very complex and not fully understood. You will learn about the atmospheric, oceanic and terrestrial components of the carbon cycle, how they interact with each other, and how they interact with climate in so-called ‘feedbacks’. The understanding of the carbon cycle gained from this module is a vital foundation for all climate change research. Emphasis is given to the most recent, cutting-edge research in the field. Co-taught with ENV-MA31.
Free Choice Study (20 credits)
Students will select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School
Disclaimer
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.
Year Abroad
At the School of Environmental Sciences, UEA, Norwich we can offer you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to spend a year of your studies abroad.
The year abroad degree programmes are four years in duration. You will spend your first two years at UEA, Norwich. The third year is spent at a university (of your choice) abroad and the fourth and final year is spent back at UEA, Norwich. The overseas placement is subject to satisfactory academic performance during Years 1 and 2. Students on an exchange programme will be expected to pay 15% of their annual tuition fee to UEA during their year abroad and we will pay the overseas university.
The chance to spend a year abroad can be an experience of a lifetime as well as providing you with:
Travel opportunities
The opportunity to learn a second language
The chance to experience different cultures
The chance to study topics that we cannot provide here at UEA
Students on the North America exchange programme have the option to spend one year of their studies in either the USA or Canada. We currently exchange with a wide range of institutions (listed below). We will do our best to place you at the exchange university of your choice, however if the demand for a particular university exceeds the places available, you will be placed elsewhere.
34 points (including 3 HL subjects at Grade 6 or above and SL Maths at Grade 5)
Scottish Highers:
AAAAA and Maths at Grade C
Scottish Advanced Highers:
AAA and Standard level Maths at Grade C
Irish Leaving Certificate:
AAAAAA and Standard Level Maths at Grade C
Access Course:
See below
European Baccalaureate:
85% overall incl science and Maths
Students for whom English is a Foreign language
We welcome applications from students from all academic backgrounds. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading). Recognised English Language qualifications include:
IELTS: 6. overall (minimum 5.5 in any component)
TOEFL: Internet-based score of 78 overall (minimum 20 in Speaking component, 17 in Writing and Listening components and 18 in Reading components.
PTE: 55 overall (minimum 51 in any component).
If you do not meet the University's entry requirements, our INTO Language Learning Centre offers a range of university preparation courses to help you develop the high level of academic and English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
Interviews
The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.
Gap Year
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.
Special Entry Requirements
AS Level Mathematics Grade C (or International Baccalaureate SL Maths grade 5) or equivalent.
Applicants are asked to have at least one science based A2-level or equivalent. Acceptable science subjects include: Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Environmental Science, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics.
General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.
Intakes
The School's annual intake is in September of each year.
Alternative Qualifications
We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 45 credits at Level 3, including 12 Level 3 Science credits and 6 Level 3 maths credits.
GCSE Offer
Students are required to have Mathematics and English at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.
Fees and Funding
Undergraduate University Fees
We are committed to ensuring that Tuition Fees do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. Full time UK/EU students starting an undergraduate degree course in 2013 will be charged a tuition fee of £9,000. The level of fee may be subject to yearly increases. Full time International students starting an undergraduate degree course in 2013 will be charged a tuition fee of £14,400. The level of fee may be subject to yearly increases.
Year Abroad Fees
For Home/EU students opting for a Year Abroad the tuition fee is currently £1,350. The Year Abroad tuition fee will be subject to an annual increase. International Students are required to pay 25% of their annual tuition fee to UEA during their year Abroad and will be calculated based on the current tuition fee for that year.
International Students - The University offers around £1 million of Scholarships each year to support International students in their studies. Scholarships are normally awarded to students on the basis of academic merit and are usually for the duration of the period of study. Our University international pages gives you more details about preparation for studying with us, including Fees and Funding http://www.uea.ac.uk/international
UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The system allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it must be sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The UCAS code name and number for the University of East Anglia is EANGL E14.
Further Information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances with the Admissions Office prior to applying please do contact us:
Climate change has been a feature throughout the Earth’s past, and is now also taking place in response to human activity. It is one of the most pressing, and one of the more complex, problems facing society in the 21st century. 
Environmental science is a rapidly progressing, vibrant and exciting field of study with excellent career prospects in the UK and beyond.