Understand and solve environmental problems with science
Environmental scientists help businesses and governments understand and make informed decisions about how to preserve natural ecosystems and resources, and how to balance the needs of humans and natural world.
- Only a full-time option is available to international students on a Student visa. Online programs are not available to Student visa holders.
- * Estimated tuition fees are based on 2022 rates. Refer to international fees for more information.
- Not all majors/minors and elective options are available at every campus. You should refer to the What Can I Study tab, and the proposed study sequence for your chosen campus and intake for further information.
- ^First and second year courses offered at Moreton Bay campus from Semester 1, 2022.
- ^First and second year courses offered at Moreton Bay campus from Semester 1, 2022.
- Student profile
-
Explore the likely peer cohort in the student profile data
- Inherent Academic Requirements
-
Prospective students must consider the Inherent Academic Requirements before applying to study this program.
- Program coordinator
- Associate Professor Alison Shapcott
Environmental scientists help businesses and governments understand and make informed decisions about how to preserve natural ecosystems and resources, and how to balance the needs of humans and natural world.
In this program you'll learn about plant ecology, chemistry, hydrology, soil rehabilitation, climate change, coastal studies, geospatial sciences and conservation and restoration. Study the interaction between natural and human-managed environments and develop skills in environmental monitoring and advanced research methods.
In this program you will:
- Develop skills in advanced research methods
- Use technology such as spatial analysis and drones to gain industry-ready skills
- Participate in field trips to USC research sites
- Learn how to solve complex environmental problems
- Choose an area of interest from a range of options including Environmental Management, Sustainability and more
Career opportunities
- Restoration and conservation
- Parks and wildlife
- Resource management
- Waste and pollution control
- Catchment management agencies
- Local councils
- Science and research agencies
- Environmental consultant
Graduates are eligible to become members of:
- Australian Network for Plant Conservation
- Australian Water Association
- Ecological Society of Australia
- Australian Marine Sciences Association
And associate members of:
- Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand
USC ranked 45th out of 566 institutions worldwide*
*2021 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, Climate Action.
What will I study?
Select your location, starting year and starting semester below to display your program structure and study sequence.
The study sequence ONLY represents the CURRENT program structure. Students MUST follow their commencing structure and use this study sequence to guide enrolment.
Program structure
Total units:
Study sequence
Submit an enquiry
Or chat now
Apply now
Applications to study at USC in 2022 are open now. Find out how to apply.
Ways to study
Choose to study on campus, online or a combination of both.
Related news
USC Newsroom
Forest waste could help fight climate change
10 November 2021A University of the Sunshine Coast researcher is investigating how forest waste can help fight climate change and boost the incomes of farmers and landowners.
Mooloolah River probe earns award for bright spark
16 August 2021Establishing why the Mooloolah River catchment has elevated electrical conductivity in its estuarine sediments has earned a USC student high recognition from the Queensland branch of Soil Science Australia.
Passion for environment reverberates through graduate career
23 March 2021When surf lifesaver Jessica Appel decided to pursue Environmental Science as a degree and a career, the USC graduate was listening to her heart.