BSc (Hons) Environmental Science at University of the Highlands and Islands

Programme overview

The BSc (Hons) Environmental Science is a four-year degree studied in the Highlands and Islands with lab and field residentials each year, including an international field trip in year 2. Students follow either the Environmental Science pathway or the Environmental Science with Archaeology pathway. Study is full-time, part-time or by individual module.

Duration: Full time: 4 years; part time: 6-8 years | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 covers introduction to biology, introduction to environmental science, laboratory skills and practice and scientific research and careers. Year 2 covers environmental processes, GIS for scientists, field ecology skills, applied chemistry in environmental systems and aquatic environments. Years 3 and 4 include climate science, peatland ecology, environmental monitoring, data science modelling, applied marine ecology, a dissertation and options such as conservation of biodiversity and natural hazards.

Career pathways

Environmental agencies and statutory bodies (area officer, ecologist, soil or microbial scientist, hydrologist, marine scientist), local authority biodiversity and flood alleviation work, forestry, environmental consultancy, industry environmental management and charities such as the RSPB and Scottish Wildlife Trust. Progression to MSc and MRes courses in sustainability, forestry, freshwater science and related fields.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Three Scottish Highers at grade BCC or above, or two A levels at grade BC or above, including two science subjects (such as Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics or Environmental Science), plus National 5, Standard Grade Credit or Intermediate 2 at grade C or above in a science subject. Alternatively a Foundation Apprenticeship in Scientific Technologies (Laboratory Skills) plus an additional Scottish Higher at C or above and National 5 at C or above. Advanced entry to year 2 may be available with HNC Applied Sciences, Bioscience, Horticulture or Wildlife and Conservation Management, or CertHE Introduction to Marine Biology, Environmental Science and Sustainability; to year 3 with HND Horticulture or Wildlife and Conservation Management. Other qualifications or experience considered individually. International applicants (IELTS Academic): overall 6.0 with no component below 5.5, or an equivalent approved test.

Domestic applicants: GBP 1,820 a year (2026/27). Students normally domiciled in Scotland, full-time. Source

International applicants: GBP 17,970 a year (2026/27). International students, full-time, term-time address in Scotland. Source

Intake: September

Duration: Full time: 4 years; part time: 6-8 years

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