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Course overview
If you want to help combat climate change and make a difference by deepening your understanding of the interactions seen within the natural world then Environmental Science is for you.This interdisciplinary subject, combining biology, chemistry, physics, geography and maths, will allow you to explore interactions between organisms and their environment on a local and global scale. Giving you a good grounding for further study in one of the fastest growing areas of employment.
Course Content
The living environment
• Conditions for life on Earth
• Conservation of biodiversity
• Life processes in the biosphere and conservation planning
The physical environment
• The atmosphere
• The hydrosphere
• Mineral resources
• Biogeochemical cycles
• Soils
Energy resources
Evaluation of new extraction/harnessing technologies relating to:
• Fossil fuels
• Nuclear power – fission and fusion
• Renewable energy technologies
• New energy storage systems
• New energy conservation technologies
• Vehicle design for use and end of life
• Building design
Pollution
• The properties of pollutants
• How environmental features affect pollution events
• Strategies to control pollutants based on their properties and features of the environment
Biological resources
• Agriculture
• Aquatic food production systems
• Forest resources
Sustainability
• Dynamic equilibria
• Energy
• Material cycles
• The Circular Economy
What else do I need to know?
The course will includes at least 2 days in the field and practical lab work, giving you the opportunity to carry out modern practical and analytical methods currently used in the field.What are the entry requirements?
You will need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above including maths and English Language, in subjects relevant to your A Level or A+ Programme subject choices. To study this course you will also need to achieve a grade 6 in GCSE Biology and Chemistry or grade 6-6 in Combined Science.
How is it assessed?
Two 3 hour final exams, consisting of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions.
Paper 1 topics:
• The physical environment
• Energy resources
• Pollution
• Research methods
Paper 2 topics:
• The living environment
• Biological resources
• Sustainability
• Research methods
Paper 1 topics:
• The physical environment
• Energy resources
• Pollution
• Research methods
Paper 2 topics:
• The living environment
• Biological resources
• Sustainability
• Research methods
What financial support is on offer?
This course is free for anyone aged 16 – 18. If you are outside this age group please contact 01782 254188.
College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a household income under £23,000 can receive up to £20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit www.nscg.ac.uk/finance
College Maintenance Allowance (CMA): Anyone with a household income under £23,000 can receive up to £20 per week financial support to help pay for travel and meals and meet the costs of essential trips, books, stationery and equipment. The payments will be subject to full attendance on your course. A range of other financial support is available, depending on your personal circumstances. For more details visit www.nscg.ac.uk/finance
What can I do next?
When you have gained your A Level in Environmental Science, you can use it to progress into Higher Education, both locally and further afield. From Keele University to Liverpool Hope University, many offer degree courses linked with environmental science. This course is a great accompaniment to Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Physics and Maths. Jobs linked to Environmental Science range from Environmental Engineer, Nature conservation officer, Sustainability consultant to water quality scientist and many more.
How do I find out more?
Please contact John Griffiths by emailing john.griffiths@nscg.ac.uk.
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