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 also one of the more complex, problems facing society in the 21st century. This brand new degree 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.
Although the emphasis is on the underpinning scientific drivers of climate change, you will also consider the societal impacts from, and in response to, climate change.
The programme will enable you to develop a critical awareness of issues at the frontier of research, along with a comprehensive understanding of research methods and their limitations.
You will gain the qualities of self-direction and originality in applying knowledge, solving problems and conducting research. The first three years of the programme will follow the same profile as the BSc Climate Science. In the fourth and final year you will study a range of masters level modules, as well as undertaking a substantial piece of independent research in a topic that matches your interests. You will benefit from extensive analytical facilities the School of Environmental Sciences has to offer, including state-of-the-art instrumentation, comprehensive field equipment, and our own fully-fledged and internationally-known atmospheric observatory at Weybourne on the north Norfolk coast.
This course has been provisionally accredited by the Royal Meteorological Society as a first degree which satisfies their academic requirements for Chartered Meteorologist status.
The MSci Climate Science aims to prepare the next generation of climate scientists who will act on the national and international stages of climate research and policy development. Graduates will be equipped for careers in academia, in research organisations, in government agencies and local authorities, and in environmental consultancies, amongst others. Many will also continue to Doctoral level training, either at UEA or at universities worldwide.
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 (40 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 40 credits:
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.
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.
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.
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
Compulsory Study (60 credits)
Students must study the following modules for 60 credits:
This year long module involves individual research in the environmental sciences with the topic suggested by and closely directed by a supervisor. The work will develop research skills through learning by doing and will be presented as a seminar and in the form of a research paper. The project differs from Year 3 project in requiring greater time and higher expected standards of research design and application of data.
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. Co-taught with ENV-3A80. It is recommended that students have previously taken ENV-MA37. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A80 OR EQUIVALENT
This module will adopt an integrated approach to studying surface water and groundwater resources in river basins. Approaches to catchment management will be considered in the context of improving water-dependent terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Topics of climate change impacts on water resources in terms of droughts and floods, as well as water quality issues arising from changing land-use patterns will be considered, together with the engineering and socio-economic methods necessary to adapt to future pressures on water resources. Co-taught with ENV-3A60. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A60 OR EQUIVALENT
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. Advanced topic: Baroclinic instability.
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-3A38. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A38 OR EQUIVALENT
The aim of this module is to examine biological responses to climate change over a range of levels from species to ecosystems. In this module students will examine the most recent literature on the effects of global environmental change on biological systems and will become familiar with different approaches and methods used for modelling biological responses to climate change. Students are recommended to take ENV-MA49 and ENV-MA74.
The module will critically assess the assumptions and projections of social and technological change represented in climate change mitigation scenarios, with an emphasis on energy systems. This will include a review of the drivers and dynamics of historical energy transitions.
Geological, economic and political aspects of fossil fuels (oil, natural gas and coal) are introduced and integrated. These are used to discuss environmental concerns (particularly climate change) arising from the use of fossil fuels, and the potentially profound implications of future fuel scarcity.
The aim of this course is to show how physical environmental problems may be solved from the initial problem, to mathematical formulation and numerical solution. There is a focus on examples within meteorology, oceanography and the solid earth. The course consists of lectures on numerical methods and computing practicals. These concentrate on the solution of ordinary and partial differential equations. The computing practicals will be run in Matlab. The module will guide students through the solution of a geophysical problem of their own choosing. The problem will be discussed & placed into context through an essay, and then solved & written up in a project report. Co-taught with ENV-3A11. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A11 OR EQUIVALENT
The aim of this Module is to introduce students to a range of different narratives of environmental change which have been influential in Western thought and action over the last 200 years and especially the last 50 years. It also aims to show how different narratives of past changes can be used to shape different environmental policy futures. The Module draws upon the sub-disciplines of environmental history, cultural geography, futures studies and systems theory and is taught by three experts in these fields. The Module is divided into three parts. In Part 1, through lectures and seminars we introduce students to seven different narratives of environmental change: for example, limits to growth, planetary boundaries, social-ecological resilience. In Part 2, through lectures we introduce four different arenas where environmental policy-making is currently active and show how different narratives of environmental change shape, constrain or inflect the development of environmental policy and the engagement of citizens. In Part 3, the students working in pairs lead a series of assessed seminars on allocated topics which bring together the historical narratives with areas of live policy debate.
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. Co-taught with ENV-2A39. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-2A39 OR EQUIVALENT
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-3A58. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A58 OR EQUIVALENT
From supernovae and the early condensation of the solar system, through the climate history of the planet and on to modern stratospheric chemistry, studies using stable isotopes have made a significant contribution to our understanding of the processes that shape the Earth. In this module we look at the theory and practice of isotope geochemistry, covering analytical methods and mass spectrometry, fractionation processes, and isotope behaviour in chemical cycles in the geosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere and atmosphere. The course consists of lectures, practicals, including hands-on experience in the stable isotope laboratory, and student led seminars.
Carbon dioxide is the greenhouse gas which has, by far, the greatest impact on climate change. Carbon dioxide 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-3A31. TO TAKE THIS MODULE YOU CANNOT HAVE PREVIOUSLY TAKEN ENV-3A31 OR EQUIVALENT
This module will explore physical processes in the ocean, building on what you learnt in Ocean Circulation. There will be a focus on applications of ocean physics to shelf seas. Topics will include: Tide generation, forces, harmonic tidal analysis of time series, propagation in shallow seas; Surface and internal waves, their role in air-sea exchange and upper ocean mixing; Role of tides and internal waves in global ocean mixing; Impact of ocean physics on biogeochemical processes, including seasonal phytoplankton blooms and shelf sea fronts; Remote sensing of sea surface temperature and chlorophyll is shelf seas. Estuarine circulation and sediment transport; Applications of ocean physics to water quality and pollution monitoring; Role of ocean science in the marine energy industry. This module is designed to follow on from ENV-MA39, which is a pre-requisite.
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.
Entry Requirements
A Level:
AAA and AS level Maths at Grade C
International Baccalaureate:
34 points (incl 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 Maths and one science
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.
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 also one of the more complex, problems facing society in the 21st century. This brand new degree 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.
Environmental science is a rapidly progressing, vibrant and exciting field of study with excellent career prospects in the UK and beyond.