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BSc | Undergraduate

Environmental Management with Professional Studies

Entry year
Academic Year 2025/26
Entry requirements
BBB/ABB
Attendance
4 years (Full-time)
UCAS Code
F854

The growing changes affecting the natural environment, and the increasing role of environmental policies affecting businesses and organisations are creating new and challenging career opportunities for those familiar with issues of sustainable development, planning and environmental protection and management.

The BSc in Environmental Management with Professional Studies explores the physical, social, economic and cultural aspects of environmental management. It combines aspects of science, geography and environmental planning with an environmental work placement to understand the environmental systems in which we live and work.

Students will be enabled to understand; issues of sustainable development, conservation and environmental protection and management, the integrated and holistic nature of environmental management and how to devise, manage and critically evaluate project work.

Students on this course will undertake a 46 week placement in an organisation which will help to develop the vital skills they will need to progress to employment.

Environmental Management with Professional Studies highlights

Professional Accreditations

Degrees accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Internationally Renowned Experts

The course will include ‘Dragons’ Den’ presentations to external experts in the final year for the module Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Planning and Geography modules will host guest lectures from business practitioners. Site visits will be an important component of many modules, including Environmental Management, Environmental Assessment, Policies for Environmental Sustainability, Dynamic Earth and Environmental Change.

Further Study Opportunities

Graduates from this course have continued further education studying MSc programmes in Ecological Management and Conservation Biology; Environmental Engineering; Leadership for Sustainable (Rural) Development, Environmental Law, and PhD programmes in Environmental Economics.

Industry Links

Students must complete a one year placement between Stage 2 and 3. This placement will help students apply their degree to a work place environment, and build a foundation for future career opportunities. Work placements take place in a wide range of organisations including Farrans, Northstone Quarries, SITA Waste Management, Ulster Wildlife Trust, Colin Glen, National Trust, Property developers, Property management companies, Environmental consultancies and Councils. Work placement overseas is encouraged and students have worked in America, New Zealand, Australia, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland and England.

World Class Facilities

This programme is jointly delivered by the School of Biological Sciences and by the School of Natural and Built Environment. Students will benefit from the facilities available in these two schools, including a Marine Laboratory in Portaferry. Environmental Management is linked closely to the Institute for Global Food Security, one of the three three major research centres in the University, and it is primarily taught by members of the Institute.

Course Structure

Year Out (Professional Studies)

All students will spend a minimum of 46 weeks in a work placement during which they will carry out some project type work. Students will begin preparations for the placement in the first semester of Stage 2 and the placement will be assessed within the module Professional Studies that is usually undertaken at the end of second semester.

People teaching you

Programme Director

School of Biological Sciences

Contact Teaching Hours

Personal Study

31 (hours maximum)

Large Group Teaching

9 (hours maximum)
Typical hours per week. Teaching will take place in large, medium and small groups, and it will include site visits, group projects, students’ presentations, tutorials, and personal study time.

Learning and Teaching

At Queen’s, we aim to deliver a high quality learning environment that embeds intellectual curiosity, innovation and best practice in learning, teaching and student support to enable students to achieve their full academic potential.

On the BSc Environmental Management with Professional Studies we do this by providing a range of learning experiences which enable our students to engage with subject experts, develop attributes and perspectives that will equip them for life and work in a global society and make use of innovative technologies and a world class library that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners.

Examples of the opportunities provided for learning on this course are:

E-learning technologies, lectures, peer mentoring, personal tutors, self-directed study, seminars/ tutorials, supervised research, and work related field trips and study tours.

Work-Related learning/Field Trips/Study Tours

Study visits and field trips are integrated into several of our option modules. The purpose of these tours is to help students apply their learning to the real-work context and to exercise critical thinking and interpretation. Back in the classroom, students undertake a number of group-based tasks in workshops focused on the field trip and present their findings to classmates.

Assessment

The way in which students are assessed will vary according to the learning outcomes of each module. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Student Handbook which is provided to all students during their first year induction.

  • Most modules are assessed through a combination of coursework and class tests or examinations.
  • Some modules [e.g. final year Honours Project module] are assessed solely through project work or written assignments.

Feedback

As you progress through your course you will receive general and specific feedback about your work from a variety of sources including lecturers, module co-ordinators, placement supervisors, personal tutors, advisers of study and your peers.
As a university student, you will be expected to take a greater role in reflecting on this and taking the initiative in continuously improving the quality of your work.

  • Feedback may be provided to you in a variety of forms including: formal written comments, face to face comments, placement employer comments or references, online or emailed feedback, pre-submission advice, feedback and outcomes from practical classes, and others.

Facilities

This programme is jointly delivered by the School of Biological Sciences and by the School of Natural and Built Environment. Students will benefit from the facilities available in these two schools, including a Marine Laboratory in Portaferry. Environmental Management is linked closely to the Institute for Global Food Security, one of the three three major research centres in the University, and it is primarily taught by members of the Institute.

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Modules

Modules

The information below is intended as an example only, featuring module details for the current year of study (2024/25). Modules are reviewed on an annual basis and may be subject to future changes – revised details will be published through Programme Specifications ahead of each academic year.

  • Year 1

    Core Modules

    Earth Systems (20 credits)

    Optional Modules

  • Year 2

    Core Modules

    Optional Modules

    Marine Systems (20 credits)
    Applied Ecology (20 credits)
  • Year 3

    Core Modules

    Professional Studies (120 credits)
  • Year 4

    Core Modules

    Optional Modules

Entrance requirements

A-level

BBB including at least two from Biology, Economics and Geography + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
OR
ABB + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.

A maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award will be accepted as part of an applicant's portfolio of qualifications with a Distinction* being equated to a grade A at A-level and a Distinction being equated to a grade B at A-level.

Note: certain modules will require GCSE Mathematics grade B/6.

Irish Leaving Certificate

H3H3H3H3H4H4/H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in at least two from Biology, Economics and Geography + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics
OR
H3H3H3H3H3H3/H2H3H3H3H3 + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O4 in Mathematics.

Certain modules will require Ordinary Level grade O3 in Mathematics.

BTEC Level 3 Extended/National Extended Diploma

A relevant QCF Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma (180 credits), with DDD + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
OR
A non-relevant QCF Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma (180 credits), with D*DD + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
OR
A relevant computing RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma (1080 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)), with DDD + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.
OR
A non-relevant RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma (1080 Guided Learning Hours (GLH)), with D*DD + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.

Note: certain modules will require GCSE Mathematics grade B/6.

Access/Foundation Course

Successful completion of Access Course with an average of 65-70% + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4 or equivalent in Access Course.

Note: certain modules will require GCSE Mathematics grade B/6 or equivalent in Access Course.

BTEC Higher National Certificate

For applicants offering a HNC the current requirements are successful completion of the HNC with 1 Distinction and remainder Merits + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.

Note: certain modules will require GCSE Mathematics grade B/6.

Graduate

A minimum of a 2:2 Honours Degree + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4.

Note: certain modules will require GCSE Mathematics grade B/6.

Note

All applicants must have GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University.

How we choose our students

In addition, to the entrance requirements above, it is essential that you read our guidance below on 'How we choose our students' prior to submitting your UCAS application.

Applications are dealt with centrally by the Admissions and Access Service rather than by the School of Biological Sciences. Once your on-line form has been processed by UCAS and forwarded to Queen's, an acknowledgement is normally sent within two weeks of its receipt at the University.

Selection is on the basis of the information provided on your UCAS form, which is considered by a member of administrative staff from the Admissions and Access Service and, if appropriate, the Selector from the School. Decisions are made on an ongoing basis and will be notified to you via UCAS. These decisions can only be made on the basis of the information given and applicants must show due care and diligence when completing their applications. In particular, full details must be included about qualifications completed or still to be completed.

For entry last year, applicants must have had, or been able to achieve, a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade C/4 or better (to include English Language and Mathematics), though this profile may change from year to year depending on the demand for places. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of GCSE and/or A-level subjects can be fulfilled.

Offers are normally made on the basis of three A-levels. Two subjects at A-level plus two at AS would also be considered. The minimum acceptable is two subjects at A-level plus one at AS though candidates offering this combination will be considered on an individual basis depending on the degree for which they have applied.

The offer for repeat candidates is normally the same as for first time applicants. Grades may be held from the previous year.

A-level General Studies and A-level Critical Thinking would not normally be considered as part of a three A-level offer and, although they may be excluded where an applicant is taking four A-level subjects, the grade achieved could be taken into account if necessary in August/September.

Applicants offering other qualifications, such as BTEC National and Higher National Certificates/Diplomas, the International Baccalaureate, Irish Leaving Certificate or an Access course, will also be considered. The same GCSE profile is usually expected of those candidates offering other qualifications.

For applicants offering Irish Leaving Certificate, please note that performance at Junior Certificate is taken into account. For last year’s entry applicants for this degree must have had, a minimum of 5 IJC grades C/Merit, though this profile may change from year to year depending on the demand for places. The Selector also checks that any specific entry requirements in terms of Leaving Certificate subjects can be satisfied.

The information provided in the personal statement section and the academic reference together with predicted grades are noted but, in the case of the Land Use and Environmental Management degree, these are not the final deciding factors in whether or not a conditional offer can be made. However, they may be reconsidered in a tie break situation in August.

Applicants are not normally asked to attend for interview.

If you are made an offer then you may be invited to a School Visit Day, which is usually held in the second semester. This will allow you the opportunity to visit the University and to find out more about the degree programme of your choice and the facilities on offer. It also gives you a flavour of the academic and social life at Queen's.

If you cannot find the information you need here, please contact the University Admissions and Access Service (admissions@qub.ac.uk), giving full details of your qualifications and educational background.

International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.

English Language Requirements

An IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each test component or an equivalent acceptable qualification, details of which are available at: http://go.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs

If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

  • Academic English: an intensive English language and study skills course for successful university study at degree level
  • Pre-sessional English: a short intensive academic English course for students starting a degree programme at Queen's University Belfast and who need to improve their English.

International Students - Foundation and International Year One Programmes

INTO Queen's offers a range of academic and English language programmes to help prepare international students for undergraduate study at Queen's University. You will learn from experienced teachers in a dedicated international study centre on campus, and will have full access to the University's world-class facilities.

These programmes are designed for international students who do not meet the required academic and English language requirements for direct entry.

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Careers

Career Prospects

Introduction

Careers are diverse, not only in the rural and land use industries and government services, but also in private sector industries, financial institutions and agribusiness concerns of various kinds.

Graduates will have a knowledge of the natural environment, be able to demonstrate familiarity with sustainable development, conservation and environmental protection issues, as well as an understanding of the integrated and holistic nature of land use and environmental management.

Possible careers include environmental management (private and public sectors) and include consultancy and environmental impact assessment with environmental organisations (eg RSPB, WWF). Graduates can become Chartered Surveyors. Opportunities also exist within the full range of occupations associated with graduate employment.

Employment after the Course

Students who graduate from the Environmental Management programmes have primarily embraced careers in the following areas: environmental management; environmental consultancy; environmental conservation; environmental surveying.

Employment Links

Graduates from this course have found employment in several organisations, including:

• Action Renewables
• The Consumer Council
• DAERA
• Ecologia
• Environment Agency
• Nestlé
• RecyCo Waste Management
• RSPB
•Farrans
•RPS Consulting
•SAC Compliance
•Quinn Building Products
•AIC Group Limited
•Northern Ireland Water
•ATG Group
•GAEA ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITED
•Moy Park
•Mace
•Belfast Metropolitan College
•Henry Brothers
•Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Company
•Amey
•British American Tobacco
•Antrim Borough Council
•South West College
•Applied Ecological Services

Degree Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Degree Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

Tuition Fees

Northern Ireland (NI) 1 £4,750
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2 £4,750
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1 £9,250
EU Other 3 £25,300
International £25,300

1EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.

2 EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.

3 EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

The tuition fees quoted above for NI and ROI are the 2024/25 fees and will be updated when the new fees are known. In addition, all tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase in each year of the course. Fees quoted relate to a single year of study unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Tuition fee rates are calculated based on a student’s tuition fee status and generally increase annually by inflation. How tuition fees are determined is set out in the Student Finance Framework.

Additional course costs

The following optional modules have a compulsory field trip:

Year 2 Applied Ecology with Field Course Module has a field trip costing £180

All Students

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.

Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.

If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.

Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.

There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

How do I fund my study?

There are different tuition fee and student financial support arrangements for students from Northern Ireland, those from England, Scotland and Wales (Great Britain), and those from the rest of the European Union.

Information on funding options and financial assistance for undergraduate students is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/Fees-and-scholarships/.

Scholarships

Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students. Information on scholarships available.

International Scholarships

Information on scholarships for international students, is available at www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/international-scholarships.

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Apply

How to Apply

Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com/students.

When to Apply

UCAS will start processing applications for entry in autumn 2025 from early September 2024.

The advisory closing date for the receipt of applications for entry in 2025 is still to be confirmed by UCAS but is normally in late January (18:00). This is the 'equal consideration' deadline for this course.

Applications from UK and EU (Republic of Ireland) students after this date are, in practice, considered by Queen’s for entry to this course throughout the remainder of the application cycle (30 June 2025) subject to the availability of places. If you apply for 2025 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.

Applications from International and EU (Other) students are normally considered by Queen's for entry to this course until 30 June 2025. If you apply for 2025 entry after this deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as is consistent with having made a careful and considered choice of institutions and courses.

The Institution code name for Queen's is QBELF and the institution code is Q75.

Further information on applying to study at Queen's is available at: www.qub.ac.uk/Study/Undergraduate/How-to-apply/

Apply via UCAS

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study. Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

Additional Information for International (non-EU) Students

  1. Applying through UCAS
    Most students make their applications through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) for full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Queen's. The UCAS application deadline for international students is 30 June 2025.
  2. Applying direct
    The Direct Entry Application form is to be used by international applicants who wish to apply directly, and only, to Queen's or who have been asked to provide information in advance of submitting a formal UCAS application. Find out more.
  3. Applying through agents and partners
    The University’s in-country representatives can assist you to submit a UCAS application or a direct application. Please consult the Agent List to find an agent in your country who will help you with your application to Queen’s University.

Download Undergraduate Prospectus

Course location

Biological Sciences

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