Level 3
Environmental Science, A Level
Level 3
Environmental Science, A Level
Discover how science can help tackle today's biggest environmental challenges. Explore climate change, biodiversity, sustainability, and conservation while developing the practical and analytical skills needed for university and careers protecting our planet.
Course Overview
Environmental Science A Level combines biology, chemistry, and geography to help you understand the complex relationships between people and the natural world. You'll investigate ecosystems, climate change, pollution, conservation, and sustainability while applying your knowledge through practical investigations, fieldwork, and research projects.
You'll study at Loxton Campus in modern laboratories equipped for scientific investigations and environmental fieldwork. You'll automatically join our Career Excellence Hub, giving you access to guest speakers, employer encounters, industry visits, and career-focused workshops. During Year 1, you'll complete an AS qualification before progressing to the full A Level in Year 2, with opportunities to follow specialist pathways including environmental and social enterprise. Throughout the course, experienced teachers and Tutor Learning Mentors will support your academic progress, practical skills, and future ambitions.
What will I study?
Key topics include:
• Ecosystems and energy flow
• Biodiversity and conservation
• Climate change and global warming
• Human impact on the environment
• Air, water, and soil pollution
• Sustainability and renewable resources
• Environmental monitoring and sampling techniques
• Environmental legislation and policy
You'll also develop skills in:
• Planning and carrying out scientific investigations
• Data collection, analysis, and interpretation
• Evaluating environmental research
• Presenting scientific findings through reports and presentations
Exciting Opportunities
As part of our Career Excellence Hub, you'll benefit from:
• Field trips to nature reserves, environmental centres, and water treatment facilities
• Guest lectures from environmental scientists and industry professionals
• Opportunities to take part in environmental projects and research initiatives
Appropriate outdoor clothing is recommended for fieldwork.
Where will I study?
You'll study at our purpose-built Sixth Form at Loxton Campus, featuring specialist science facilities, collaborative learning spaces, and high-quality resources that create a university-style learning environment.
How do AS and A Levels work?
You will normally study three or four A Levels over two years. In Year 1, you'll work towards an AS qualification before progressing to the full A Level in Year 2.
This flexible structure allows many students to study four subjects in Year 1 before continuing with three A Levels. AS Levels also carry UCAS points.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment includes:
• Examinations at the end of Year 2 covering theoretical and applied topics
• Practical investigations and fieldwork-based assessments
Entry requirements
• Five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including science and maths at grade 5 or above
• Strong written and analytical skills, with an interest in the natural world
What can I do after this course?
Environmental Science A Level provides an excellent foundation for higher education and careers including:
• Environmental Consultant
• Conservation Scientist
• Ecologist
• Wildlife Manager
• Marine Scientist
• Sustainability Adviser
• Environmental Laboratory Technician
You could progress to university degrees in Environmental Science, Ecology, Geography, Marine Biology, Conservation Biology, Environmental Management, or Sustainability, including related courses at University Centre Weston.
What do I do now?
Ready to apply? – Please use the 'apply now' button on this page. From here you'll be taken through to our application portal.
Want to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next Open Event.
Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.