Environmental Science A Level

Qualification: GCE A Level in Environmental Science
Exam Board & Specification Code: AQA; 7447; Specification
Course Entry Requirements: 4 in English Language GCSE, 4 in Maths GCSE and 4 in 2 Science GCSEs (Combined Sciences accepted but not Applied Science) (Updated November 2024)
Please make sure that you have understood the overall entry requirements to study at BHASVIC. These are available here and outline the GCSE grades you need to take up one of the Study Programmes at the college.
Length and size of qualification: 2 year single course, equivalent to 1 A level
Timetable hours: 4.5 hours per week
Assessment method: 2 x 3 hour exams
BHASVIC Department: Biology

What will I study?

You will explore the key challenges facing our planet and how the environment supports us, how we threaten these support systems and strategies for a more sustainable lifestyle. Studying wildlife conservation, resource management, energy use, pollution and food production you will develop in-depth understanding of the problems… and the solutions. The new specification covers many aspects of the world around us, including conservation methods, land use conflict, global climate change, pollution, energy resources, sustainable biological resources, evolution, biotechnology and ecosystems and population dynamics – it’s a really good range of topics so that everyone will find areas that interest them! It is also very contextualised to relate it to how the world works around you.

Is this course right for me?

This subject is for you if you: have a real interest in the environment and its sustainable management; enjoy science and want to apply your understanding in real-world contexts; want to develop your skills in researching and evaluating information and analysing data; like debate and problem solving. You are most likely to succeed if you are a self-motivated independent learner. Lessons are interactive and build upon independent study. You should be willing to participate in topical discussions and debates, be able to structure well-balanced arguments in essay-style questions and use data from different sources to analyse results. Good with Biology, Chemistry, English, Geography, Maths, Psychology, Politics.

Where next?

Your interest in the environment and ethical issues could lead you into a diverse world of career paths. If you are interested in sustainability, world resources or conservation then this could be the course that takes you towards a rewarding career. Possible related sectors include ecology and wildlife conservation, environmental science, agriculture, geography, geology or climatology. Students wishing to study this subject at degree level may also consider: Zoology, Marine Biology, Biotechnology, Animal Science, Sustainable Civil Engineering, Journalism, Urban Landscape Design etc. Environmental experts are needed in business, industry and government as well as estate management, land reclamation, countryside management and conservation. Useful websites to research careers and wider progression options could include The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management (CIEEM), Institute of Environmental Management (IEMA), All About Careers and The Apprenticeship Guide.

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