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The admission criteria have been grouped to assist you to easily find the information most relevant to your circumstances. However, you may fit into more than one and the university will consider applicants against each of the relevant criteria.
Applicants are required to meet one of the following criteria with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements and essential requirements for admission:
Recent secondary education
Meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C- or equivalent
AND
Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and achieved a competitive Selection Rank (ATAR), or
Complete secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points
Applicants who have not achieved the Selection Rank required for automatic selection may be selected for any remaining places based on the grades of their year 12 subjects.
OR Higher education study
Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above, or
Complete the Associate Degree in Engineering at the University of South Australia
OR Vocational Education and Training (VET)
Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV or above
OR Work and life experience
Qualify for Special Entry, or
Complete a 12-month UniSA Foundation Studies program or equivalent, or
Hold completed secondary qualifications equivalent to SACE obtained more than 2 years in the past
Essential requirements for admission
Prerequisites
None
Assumed Knowledge
None
English language entry requirements
In addition to meeting academic entry requirements, international students who speak English as a second or additional language must also meet the University's English language entry requirements.
The minimum language requirements for this program are:
English language test
IELTS total [6.0]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]
Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:
English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)
Graduate prepared to pursue a rewarding career in environmental sustainability.
No.1 in SA for quality education1, graduate skills2 and teaching quality3 in Environmental Science.
Broad program to develop multidisciplinary graduates who can help address critical global challenges such as climate change and the biodiversity crisis.
Develop your awareness of Aboriginal Australian approaches to Environmental Management and the cultural value of landscapes.
Learn about biology, ecology, earth and soil science, conservation, environmental chemistry, and human dimensions research.
Gain practical experience through field trips and real-world projects.
Master the knowledge and technologies behind digital/web-based mapping.
Develop skills in science communication and community engagement.
Learn first-hand from our leading researchers and industry experts.
Learn using virtual and augmented reality experiences created by Project LIVE (Learning through Immersive Virtual Environments).
SA's no. 1 university for research in Environmental Sciences4.
1ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Agriculture and Environmental Studies – Overall Quality of Educational Experience Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
2ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Agriculture and Environmental Studies – Skills Development Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
3ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Agriculture and Environmental Studies – Teaching Quality Indicator (Undergraduate). SA public universities.
4The only university in SA to have all its assessed Environmental Sciences research rated well-above world standard. 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
Snapshot
If you have genuine concern for the environment and a commitment to sustainability, a degree in Environmental Science is the first step toward launching your career.
In this degree you will address today’s scientific issues and explore how humans interact with the environment, how we can manage it sustainably, and how we can better influence positive attitudes to bring about a better future for all.
With a focus on hands-on field work in the natural environment, you will develop a solid foundation across environmental science including biology, ecology, earth and soil science, conservation, environmental chemistry, and human dimensions research. Field work ranges from exploring the campus and sites around Adelaide, to Kangaroo Island, the Coorong, the Flinders Ranges or even Fiji.
On-campus teaching for this program is based at the Mawson Lakes campus. Only 20 minutes from the city centre with easy parking. The Mawson Lakes campus is also accessible by bus and train with the Mawson Lakes train station only a short walk.
What you'll learn
Your learning will cover biology, ecology, geography, earth and soil science, water and coasts, pollution monitoring, conservation, ecotourism and sustainability. To develop strong skills in an area that interests you, you can select from a range of environmental electives in second and third year to tailor your degree, whilst still maintaining a broad, comprehensive training in environmental sciences.
Across our courses we provide you with cutting-edge techniques and technology to help you learn how to monitor and manage environments, along with tools to process and evaluate this data to critically assess its meaning. For example, through Project LIVE (Learning through Integrated Virtual Environments) you might examine aerial imagery of erosion patterns along the South Australian coastline and ancient landforms in central Australia, or infra-red surveys of vegetation health in Barossa Valley vineyards or perhaps satellite monitoring of ice sheet stability in Antarctica. This imagery will give you hands on experience in data creation and manipulation and help you become familiar with the latest digital imaging, mapping and virtual reality techniques. In other courses you’ll learn how to plan for and monitor mine site contamination or pollution in waterways, or survey plant and animal biodiversity on land or in the sea, as well as many other environmental monitoring scenarios. You’ll learn how to statistically analyse, map and communicate your findings, and to engage and work with communities to bring about necessary change.
1. Students must complete at least three Advanced Environmental Electives.
Notes
1. The Undergraduate Elective is a course that students freely choose from any area of the University, generally outside of their specialist field of study. Students must choose one Undergraduate Elective based on availability and fulfilment of any prerequisites.
2. Not all electives will be offered every year. Other options not listed here may only be taken with the prior agreement of the Program Director.
3. A number of courses include a field component which may vary in length and distance travelled and may incur additional charges.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:
reports and project documentation
research projects and group projects
essays and assignments
examinations
field studies
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Bringing about real change in the way society interacts with the environment requires a good understanding of the science behind the environmental challenges we face, but also the ability to encourage community participation and coordinate community activities to help meet those challenges.
Your studies will develop in-depth knowledge of biological, ecological, earth and soil sciences. You will master the fundamental skills of web-based mapping, and develop your problem-solving skills on the many field trips offered throughout the degree. Just as importantly, you will study human dimensions research (how people interact with the environment) and develop skills in science communication and community engagement. We actively encourage our students to do work experience during their studies and in your third year you will complete a 9 unit capstone course working with industry or a government management agency to apply what you have learned across your degree. Throughout your studies you will have opportunities to develop professional connections and participate in field studies interstate and internationally.
This degree has a highly supportive learning environment, with dedicated, internationally experienced staff. Our world-class facilities at Mawson Lakes offer an exciting environment for collaborative learning, innovation, sustainability and excellence – using cutting edge science and technology in both our teaching and research. Our friendly staff are committed to the environment and to helping you become an environmental scientist who can make a difference.
With two more years of full time study (or 1.5 years with accelerated mode), you could use this degree to become a secondary school science teacher. Or you could consider an additional, research-focused (Honours) year to get a head start on your research career.
Real-world connections
UniSA collaborates with over 2,500 companies worldwide – we offer our students plenty of opportunities to get hands-on experience and make industry connections. We host regular university-wide career expos and employment forums through our Career Service, as well as alumni events in Australia and overseas.
Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA - 2018) rated our research as well above world-class in environmental science and management. You will benefit from links to our Future Industries Institute. which brings together our world-class strengths in advanced manufacturing, nanomedicine, minerals and resource engineering and environmental science. It encourages researchers to blur the boundaries and build new relationships between industry and academia.
Hear from Kiara Sparks, Environmental Science student
Kiara Sparks talks about her experience studying UniSA's Bachelor of Environmental Science which allowed her to explore the world, both on field trips and using immersive on-campus facilities.
Career outcomes
Your career
Employment prospects for environmental scientists are expected to increase by 7.7% percent by November 20251.
Careers to consider:
coastal or land management officer: engaging with natural resource managers to continuously improve management of their land and water through a whole of landscape approach; contributing to the operational management of parks and reserves; delivering on-ground works, community events, activities and minor projects
environmental adviser (construction or mining): offering environmental support onsite or from the office; ensuring compliance with environmental regulations; helping to achieve environmental targets (e.g. sending zero waste to landfill, minimising impacts on the local environment); liaising with site operations, management, community stakeholders and other environmental groups
ranger: managing natural values (making sure the natural environment and cultural sites are protected); managing visitor services (helping visitors to enjoy and understand parks and reserves); extensive planning, researching, strategic thinking and people management to effectively balance conservation and recreational values of parks and reserves
sustainability officer: setting sustainability policies, goals and objectives; reducing a company's carbon footprint in compliance with government environmental regulations; developing partnerships (e.g. with government agencies and the community) to deliver environmental sustainability projects; inhouse auditing against environmental quality standards and for external reporting.
1 Australian Government Occupation Projections 2020
Industry facts
Contributing to the existing National Landcare Program worth $1 billion, the Australian Government is investing an additional $100 million into the Environmental Restoration Fund to ensure Australia's biodiversity and land are protected for future generations
(Australia's Nature Hub 2022)
Employment prospects for environmental scientists are expected to increase by 7.7 per cent percent by November 2025
(Australian Gov Occupation Projections 2020)
How to apply
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
Alternative Pathways
Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gain access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
Our international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your campus
We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.
This degree is delivered at the following campus.
Your study spaces
You will be both indoors and outdoors as you study Environmental Science at UniSA. Indoors, you’ll have laboratory classes, workshops, tutorials and computing sessions in our dedicated facilities on Mawson Lakes campus. Outdoors, the campus itself is a living laboratory with waterways and wetlands, which you’ll learn how to monitor and map. Across your degree you’ll get out into the field in many of your courses - around Adelaide, across the state and further afield.
You will also be exposed to virtual environments through Project LIVE: a purpose built facility that will help you immerse yourself in different environments without leaving the campus. From this facility you’ll have access to 3D drone photogrammetry, gigapixel photography, 360-degree panoramic photos and videos, and virtual reality headsets to analyse imagery and data relevant to your studies in environmental and/or geospatial sciences.
Your program director
Craig is based in UniSA STEM, at the Mawson Lakes Campus. Craig’s research is focussed on the monitoring and managing the environmental impacts of energy and resources developments, but he also has an interest in the social aspects of developments and “Social Licence to Operate". Prior to joining UniSA in 2020, Craig was based in the Faculty of Engineering Sciences at University College London (UCL), where he remains an adjunct Reader. Before that, Craig worked for about five years in industry in Western Australia, designing and running large scale environmental monitoring programs for port developments such as the Gorgon and Wheatstone LNG projects. Previous to this, Craig was a lecturer and taught marine ecology and statistics at Deakin University and before that was a U2000 Fellow at the University of Sydney (where he also taught marine ecology and experimental design/statistics). He also held an Australian Research Council funded post-doctoral research position at the University of Melbourne and while finishing his PhD worked as a senior fisheries biologist at the South Australian Research and Development Institute.
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
You will be surprised by how much fun you will have studying at UniSA; you meet new people and learn exciting things. You can really tailor your degree to suit your needs and there is plenty of support to help you make the right decision about what area you specialise in.
Angus Droogan
Bachelor of Environmental Science
Angus Droogan
Bachelor of Environmental Science
I love the atmosphere at UniSA. The lecturers and staff provide so much support, ensuring that my learning is the best it can possibly be. I have also loved the social side associated with the club, and it has been a privilege to join the UniSA sports team. The practical work and field trips have given me invaluable skills that will help me in the future. These experiences have opened my eyes to the wider environment, given me awareness on a wide range of species and provided me with memories that will stick forever.
Kiara Sparks
Bachelor of Environmental Science
Environmentalist | Laing O’Rourke
Kiara Sparks
Bachelor of Environmental Science
Environmentalist | Laing O’Rourke
Fees This is based on the total number of units for this program where one EFTSL is expressed as 36 units.
*UniSA accepts applications for programs commencing beyond the year advertised and tuition fees for these years will be higher. Please note that your tuition fees will be subject to an annual increase.
