Program Overview

Introduction to the Program

The University of York offers a comprehensive undergraduate program in Environment, Economics, and Ecology, providing students with a deep understanding of the interactions between natural and socioeconomic systems. This program is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and expertise necessary to address the complex environmental challenges facing the world today.

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Environment, Economics, and Ecology (with a placement year) is a four-year full-time program that combines the study of ecological and economic principles with a focus on human interactions and their impact on the environment. The program is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences and is ranked 5th in the UK for 'Assessment and Feedback' among the Russell Group universities included in the National Student Survey 2024 for Environmental Sciences.

Course Content

The program covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Economic Principles
• Ecological Principles
• Environment, Development, and Society
• Introduction to Global Challenges
• Introduction to Research Skills
• Economics of Sustainable Development
• Enhancing Biodiversity
• Applied Ecological Economics
• Engendering Change
• Research Skills and Project Design
• Megacities and Urbanisation
• Ecosystem Management and Conservation
• Food, Space, Culture and Society
• Climate Change: Mitigation and Adaptation
• Geographical Information Systems
• Solving Environmental Problems with Code

Placement Year

The placement year provides students with the opportunity to gain practical experience in the industry, working with organizations such as environmental consultancy, government agencies, political bodies, construction, conservation, and ecological charities. Students will be guided through the process of finding a placement by a dedicated member of staff and will be expected to perform well throughout the application process.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Debate, interpret, and explain ecological and economic principles
• Obtain, synthesise, and critically evaluate complex information
• Cut across disciplinary boundaries to link knowledge and experience
• Plan, design, and execute research in ecology, economics, and environmental studies
• Critically analyse and interpret qualitative and quantitative data
• Effectively communicate knowledge, complex ideas, and persuasive arguments
• Recommend sustainable solutions to environment and development problems

Fees and Funding

The annual tuition fees for the program are:

• UK (home): £9,535
• International and EU: £32,350 Students may be eligible for scholarships, bursaries, and other forms of funding. The University also offers a range of financial support options, including government loans and grants.

Entry Requirements

The typical offer for the program is:

• A levels: ABB, including one of the following subjects: Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Economics, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology
• Access to Higher Education Diploma: 30 credits at Distinction and 15 credits at Merit or higher, including Business, Economics, or Science-related units
• BTEC National Extended Diploma: DDM
• European Baccalaureate: 75% overall, including one of the following subjects: Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Economics, Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology
• International Baccalaureate: 34 points, including one of the following subjects: Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Economics, Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Physics, or Psychology at Higher level

English Language Requirements

If English is not the student's first language, they may need to provide evidence of their English language ability. The University accepts a range of English language qualifications, including IELTS, IB English, Cambridge CEFR, and TOEFL.

Careers and Employability

The program provides students with a range of skills and knowledge that are highly valued by employers. Graduates have gone on to work in a variety of roles, including environmental conservationist, graduate policy analyst, flood risk officer, graduate environmental consultant, environmental engineer, and oil and gas analyst. The University's Careers and Employability team provides support and guidance to help students achieve their career goals.