Sixth Form Environmental Science

Environmental Science

Board:     AQA

Type:        GCE A Level

School:    Sturminster Newton High School

Contact: Dr K King

Why study Environmental Science?

Environmental Science is a highly relevant interdisciplinary science option.  It’s the ideal course for anyone interested in contemporary environmental issues.  If you are interested in finding out more about the impact of human activity on our planet or perhaps you are interested in discovering ways in which environmental damage can be halted or even reversed, then environmental science is the course for you.

What will I learn?

You will have the opportunity to gain insights and understanding of how geographical and biological components are interrelated in terms of the environment.  You will study the physical environment by looking closely at energy resources and pollution issues, analysing contemporary environmental and sustainability issues.  You will learn to understand the living planet index and the impact of our use of resources.  You will also learn to appreciate the importance of basing decisions on reliable data in order to guarantee evidence based analysis and gain important knowledge about how society makes decisions about environmental issues.

What are the entry requirements?

Grade 55 in Combined Science or 555 in Triple Science on any tier of entry.

How will I be assessed?

There will be a written exam.  There is also fieldwork and laboratory work which will be assessed.

What do students do after studying Environmental Science?

Your interest in the environment could take you along a number of career paths, including: ecology, wildlife conservation, environmental impact assessment, aquaculture, local government, town planning and transport design.  If you choose to progress into higher education you will have opportunities to enter new fields such as ecotoxicology, climatology, geobiology or marine biology.