BSc Environmental Science with Foundation Year
About this course
BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science. Core topics include Laboratory Techniques. The programme features hands-on fieldwork across the UK and overseas, with an optional 6-week or 6–12 month placement. Students complete a group-based Sustainable Development Project investigating global environmental challenges.
Written by AI from the university's course page and module list. It can get details wrong, so check the official course page before you rely on it.
Entry requirements
GCSE: English and mathematics grade C/4 or above. A level: 32 UCAS tariff points. BTEC: 18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma PPP in a science related subject. BTEC National Diploma modules: If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application. Access: P ass an Access to HE Diploma (e.g science/combined studies/natural sciences). T level: Pass or above. Any subjects related to science or technology. International Baccalaureate: 24 points overall to include Pass in a Higher Level subject. English and maths accepted within. Other qualifications: Applications from students with non-standard qualifications, including those without science qualifications at Level 3, are welcomed and are assessed on an individual basis. This course is also suitable for those returning to study who can offer work or other related experience in place of formal qualifications and who have the equivalent of basic mathematical, English and science skills (i.e. the equivalent of a grade C at GCSE level).
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What students say
Based on about 33 final-year students who answered, across similar courses at this university
- Teaching on my course: 83%
- Learning opportunities: 87%
- Assessment and feedback: 77%
- Academic support: 94%
- Organisation and management: 78%
- Learning resources: 88%
- Student voice: 71%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 10 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Continued on course: 85%
- Left higher education: 15%
What graduates do next
Based on about 25 graduates who answered, across similar courses at this university (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 60%
- Working and studying: 10%
- Further study: 15%
- Unemployed: 5%
Most common jobs
- Conservation and environment professionals: 15%
- Sales occupations: 15%
- Elementary occupations: 15%
- Natural and social science professionals: 5%
- Skilled trades occupations: 5%
- Find their work meaningful: 75%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 45%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 40%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 200 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- North West: 2%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 2%
- East Midlands: 3%
- West Midlands: 5%
- East of England: 10%
- London: 6%
- South East: 21%
- South West: 45%
- Wales: 3%
- Scotland: 1%
- Northern Ireland: 1%
Who gets in
Based on about 10 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- A levels: 90%
- Other HE qualification: 10%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- Accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) for the purpose of eligibility to apply for associate membership.
TEF 2023 (whole university): Gold overall, Gold for student experience, Gold for student outcomes.
Modules
- Becoming a Successful Global Scientist
- Essentials for Physical and Environmental Sciences
- Our Changing Planet - Chemical and Geo-environmental Processes
- Sustainable Development Project
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of BSc Environmental Science with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth earn?
The median salary is £24,500 after 15 months, £22,500 after 3 years, £29,000 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £22,500 and £35,000. The £29,000 median after five years is £500 less than the UK median for Environmental sciences.
What do graduates of BSc Environmental Science with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth do next?
90% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).
Are students happy with the teaching on BSc Environmental Science with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth?
83% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for BSc Environmental Science with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth?
The typical offer is 24 points in the IB. The average entrant had 60 UCAS points.
Is BSc Environmental Science with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth accredited?
Yes. Accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) for the purpose of eligibility to apply for associate membership.
Does BSc Environmental Science with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth include a placement year or year abroad?
The course has an optional placement year and an optional year abroad.
How many students continue on BSc Environmental Science with Foundation Year at University of Plymouth?
85% of students continued into their second year, and 15% left higher education.