AS/A Level Environmental Studies
If you want a better understanding of the fragile world we live in and to consider how human impact could be reduced, then this subject is for you. You will study the earth’s life support systems and how we can use these sustainably to produce the food and materials we need. Conservation, climate change, our use of energy, pollution and agriculture are the major topics we cover. To support the theory, there will be practical lessons, demonstrations and field work.
There is no coursework in AS or A2, but understanding of scientific method will be examined in the written papers.
Qualifications
You should have at least a grade C in both GCSE Science and Additional Science (or in two separate Sciences). You should also have at least a grade C in GCSE Mathematics and an interest in environmental issues.
Study Visits / Fieldwork
There will be visits to the Elan Valley, Bristol Zoo, a local farm and rivers. A short residential field trip may also be arranged.
After the Course
For those who want to take the subject further, many higher education courses have an extensive environmental content. Legislation and concerns about the environment mean that there is a variety of careers in environmental management and research. Many students use this Science A level subject as an entry qualification for a degree or further study in another subject.