Key facts
Domestic students course information.
Entry is based on a bachelor qualification, or overseas equivalent.
Entry is based on a bachelor qualification, or overseas equivalent. English language requirements must also be met.
- 0.5 or 1 year full-time
- Up to 4 years part-time
- 012208G
Start Dates and Campus | Trimester 1 – February 2025 | Trimester 2 – June 2025 | Trimester 3 – October 2025 |
---|---|---|---|
Online | Offered | Offered | Offered |
Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
Online | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
Armidale Campus | Offered | Offered | Not Offered |
Sydney Campus | Not Offered | Not Offered | Not Offered |
Course information
Download course brochureEnvironmental factors play an increasing role in decision making in many fields. The ability to take these factors into account and improve the productivity and sustainability of environmental systems to meet the current and future needs of communities and industry is in demand in the workplace. UNE's Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science gives you a foundation in environmental science, allowing you to upskill and expand your knowledge, whether you wish to pivot in your career or add value to your role.
With future-proofed skills and an in-depth understanding of environmental problems and their management, you will be better placed to anticipate and respond to the challenges we're facing in a rapidly changing world.
Why study the Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science with UNE?
UNE is a pioneer in environmental science, with a long history of producing graduates who are in demand. Our Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science gives you the opportunity to study your area of interest and is ideal for broadening and developing your professional knowledge or adding the skills you need to pivot in your career. With options to study on campus or online, full-time or part-time, the course can be completed in one trimester, or paced over up to four years.
Our course equips you to meet current and future environmental challenges in an era of rapid technological disruption with future proofed scientific skills and advanced, specialised discipline knowledge.
What makes our course different?
UNE's Graduate Certificate in Environmental Science is designed to allow you to tailor your study to your individual needs with a broad range of units to choose from. The course also gives you the opportunity to:
- Engage in our collaborative, innovative learning environment. At UNE, our small class sizes give you the opportunity to interact directly with academic staff and your peers, ensuring you have the support you need to thrive.
- Hone your practical skills. Many units include mandatory intensive schools held at our vibrant Armidale campus. Through laboratory and fieldwork intensives, we emphasise the development of contemporary real-world skills, ensuring that you are able to translate your theoretical knowledge into practice.
- Fast track completion of your Graduate Certificate with entry pathways that recognise your prior learning. Depending on the discipline studied for your undergraduate degree you may be eligible for 24 credit points of advanced standing enabling you to halve your study requirements.
- Focus on applied research skills in environmental and rural science with the opportunity to complete a research project. If you wish to pursue further advanced study, these electives help you to refine the skills you will need to undertake our Master of Environmental Science and Management and progress your development as a researcher.
- Upgrade your skills further by qualifying for advanced progression in the Master of Environmental Science and Management.
- Study flexibly. Our postgraduate environmental science students come from a wide range of backgrounds, and our online study options allow you to balance study with your existing commitments. UNE is an industry leader in the provision of online learning. In fact, we're Australia's longest continuous provider of distance (now online) education.
We're highly rated. Year after year, students award UNE the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.
Course Work Programs
- Catchment Ecology and Management
- General Program
- Natural Resource Management
- Spatial Landscape Assessment
- Vegetation Ecology
Study online
Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.
Study on campus
Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.
* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.
Entry requirements
Select the option that best describes you.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule B: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).
* Relevant disciplines include the following:
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
- Botany
- Zoology
- Soil Science
- GeoScience
- Climate Science
- Natural Resource Management
- Environmental/Sustainability-focused Social Sciences
- Physical Geography
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.
If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):
You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.
This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule B: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).
* Relevant disciplines include the following:
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
- Botany
- Zoology
- Soil Science
- GeoScience
- Climate Science
- Natural Resource Management
- Environmental/Sustainability-focused Social Sciences
- Physical Geography
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.
Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
- A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.
- Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
- Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.
If you are admitted under Rule B you will be granted 24 credit points of Block Advanced Standing. You cannot apply for further Advanced Standing.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
If you are admitted under Rule A you can apply for up to 12 credit points of Advanced Standing. This may include up to 6 credit points of Advanced Standing based on professional experience.
This course is offered under two admission rules, each with its own Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule A: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in any discipline.
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule A. Please see the Rule A Course Structure (Program of Study).
Rule B: You have completed a Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) in a relevant discipline.*
If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under Rule B. Please see the Rule B Course Structure (Program of Study).
* Relevant disciplines include the following:
- Environmental Science
- Ecology
- Botany
- Zoology
- Soil Science
- GeoScience
- Climate Science
- Natural Resource Management
- Environmental/Sustainability-focused Social Sciences
- Physical Geography
Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.
These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.
When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.
You must meet the Inherent Requirements in order to complete this course.
Mandatory intensive schools on campus are a requirement for units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.
Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:
A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification.
Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.
Course Entry Advanced Standing
Some entry rules come with Advanced Standing or Articulation Programs that are assessed automatically without the need for you to fill in an additional application. Simply apply for your course and we’ll look after the rest.
If you are admitted under Rule B you will be granted 24 credit points of Block Advanced Standing. You cannot apply for further Advanced Standing.
Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.
If you are admitted under Rule A you can apply for up to 12 credit points of Advanced Standing. This may include up to 6 credit points of Advanced Standing based on professional experience.
Course structure
Students undertaking the Spatial Landscape Assessment major in Rule (a) need to undertake GISC334; rule (b) need to have completed a unit in Introduction to Spatial Science.To qualify for the award a candidate admitted under Rule (a) must pass units to the value of 48 credit points including not more than 12 credit points at 100-level, not more than 12 credit points at 200-level, at least 18 credit points at 400-level or above.
To qualify for the award a candidate admitted under Rule (b) must pass units to the value of 48 credit points including at least 18 credit points at 400-level or above.
48 credit points
For candidates admitted under Rule (a)48 credit points
Complete ONE of the following Course Work Programs:24 credit points
Complete 24 credit points from the following units with at least 12 credit points at 200 level:- Introduction to Biology: Cells and Life (BIOL110) – 6 credit points
- Organisms and the Diversity of Life (BIOL120) – 6 credit points
- Plant Physiology and Anatomy (BOTY202) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
- Ecological Methods (ECOL204) – 6 credit points
- Local Environmental Infrastructure (ENGT237) – 6 credit points
- Australian Aboriginal Sustainability Systems (ENSC220) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry I (CHEM110) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry II (CHEM120) – 6 credit points
- Ecology: Concepts and Applications (ECOL100) – 6 credit points
- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
- Foundational Quantitative Methods for Environmental and Rural Sciences (QMER100) – 6 credit points
- Soil Science (SOIL222) – 6 credit points
- Life on Earth (ZOOL100) – 6 credit points
- Vertebrate Zoology - Evolution and Diversity (ZOOL203) – 6 credit points
- Invertebrate Zoology (ZOOL210) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete 18-24 credit points from the following units:- Plants and Global Change (BOTY505) – 6 credit points
- Developing Your Professional Practice A (DYPP500A) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Australian Vegetation (ECOL511) – 6 credit points
- Environmental and Natural Resource Economics (ECON429) – 6 credit points
- Catchment Science and Management (EM402) – 6 credit points
- Natural Resource Extension (EM510) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM551) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Biology (EM553) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Environmental Science (ENSC410) – 6 credit points
- Applied Research Skills in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS501) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS581) – 6 credit points
- Global Climate Change and the Future (GEPL407) – 6 credit points
- Uncertainty, Science and Policy-Making (GEPL415) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Change in Australia (GEPL508) – 6 credit points
- Catchment to Coast (GEPL511) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Planning and Administration (GEPL535) – 6 credit points
- Spatial Analysis and Modelling (GISC433) – 6 credit points
- Remote Sensing and Image Analysis (GISC436) – 6 credit points
- Working with Aboriginal People (OORA400) – 6 credit points
- Sustainable Land Management (RSNR503) – 6 credit points
- Overseas Study Experience (OSSE500) – 6 credit points
- Soils in Practice (SOIL431) – 6 credit points
- Soils in Landscapes (SOIL500) – 6 credit points
- Soils, Pollution and the Environment (SOIL510) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK500) – 6 credit points
- Animal Behaviour (ZOOL526) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 0-6 credit points from the following units:- Plant Function and Environment (BOTY302) – 6 credit points
- Mosses and Mushrooms - Cryptogam Diversity (BOTY370) – 6 credit points
- Field Botany (BOTY390) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Plant Populations (ECOL307) – 6 credit points
- Aquatic Ecology (ECOL308) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Genetics and Genomics (ECOL320) – 6 credit points
- Land Assessment for Sustainable Use (EM311) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EM312) – 6 credit points
- Wildlife Ecology and Management (EM323) – 6 credit points
- Natural Hazards (GEPL309) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Biogeography (GEPL341) – 6 credit points
- Earth Observation (GISC331) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to GIS and Spatial Thinking (GISC334) – 6 credit points
- Pollution Management (RSNR301) – 6 credit points
- Ecological and Comparative Physiology (ZOOL327) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Parasitology (ZOOL329) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete the following unit:- Catchment Science and Management (EM402) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 6-12 credit points from the following:- Water in the Environment (GEPL506) – 6 credit points
- Catchment to Coast (GEPL511) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete 24 credit points from the following units:- Introduction to Biology: Cells and Life (BIOL110) – 6 credit points
- Organisms and the Diversity of Life (BIOL120) – 6 credit points
- Plant Physiology and Anatomy (BOTY202) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
- Ecological Methods (ECOL204) – 6 credit points
- Australian Aboriginal Sustainability Systems (ENSC220) – 6 credit points
- Local Environmental Infrastructure (ENGT237) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry I (CHEM110) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry II (CHEM120) – 6 credit points
- Ecology: Concepts and Applications (ECOL100) – 6 credit points
- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
- Foundational Quantitative Methods for Environmental and Rural Sciences (QMER100) – 6 credit points
- Soil Science (SOIL222) – 6 credit points
- Life on Earth (ZOOL100) – 6 credit points
- Vertebrate Zoology - Evolution and Diversity (ZOOL203) – 6 credit points
- Invertebrate Zoology (ZOOL210) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 6-12 credit points from the following including 6 credit points at 400 level or above:- Sustainable Agricultural Water Management (AGWT300) – 6 credit points
- Aquatic Ecology (ECOL308) – 6 credit points
- Land Assessment for Sustainable Use (EM311) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EM312) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM551) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Biology (EVOL211) – 6 credit points
- Applied Research Skills in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS501) – 6 credit points
- Earth in Crisis? (GEPL111) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to GIS and Spatial Thinking (GISC334) – 6 credit points
- Water Law and Governance (LAW207) – 6 credit points
- Pollution Management (RSNR301) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Natural Resource Extension (EM510) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM551) – 6 credit points
- Sustainable Land Management (RSNR503) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete 24 credit points from the following units:- Introduction to Biology: Cells and Life (BIOL110) – 6 credit points
- Organisms and the Diversity of Life (BIOL120) – 6 credit points
- Plant Physiology and Anatomy (BOTY202) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry I (CHEM110) – 6 credit points
- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
- Ecological Methods (ECOL204) – 6 credit points
- Local Environmental Infrastructure (ENGT237) – 6 credit points
- Australian Aboriginal Sustainability Systems (ENSC220) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry II (CHEM120) – 6 credit points
- Ecology: Concepts and Applications (ECOL100) – 6 credit points
- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
- Foundational Quantitative Methods for Environmental and Rural Sciences (QMER100) – 6 credit points
- Soil Science (SOIL222) – 6 credit points
- Life on Earth (ZOOL100) – 6 credit points
- Vertebrate Zoology - Evolution and Diversity (ZOOL203) – 6 credit points
- Invertebrate Zoology (ZOOL210) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Land Assessment for Sustainable Use (EM311) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EM312) – 6 credit points
- Wildlife Ecology and Management (EM323) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Biology (EM553) – 6 credit points
- Catchment Science and Management (EM402) – 6 credit points
- Remote Sensing and Image Analysis (GISC436) – 6 credit points
- Soils in Landscapes (SOIL500) – 6 credit points
- Soils, Pollution and the Environment (SOIL510) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete the following units:- Earth Observation (GISC331) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to GIS and Spatial Thinking (GISC334) – 6 credit points
- Spatial Analysis and Modelling (GISC433) – 6 credit points
- Remote Sensing and Image Analysis (GISC436) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete 18 credit points from the following units:- Introduction to Biology: Cells and Life (BIOL110) – 6 credit points
- Organisms and the Diversity of Life (BIOL120) – 6 credit points
- Plant Physiology and Anatomy (BOTY202) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
- Ecological Methods (ECOL204) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry I (CHEM110) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry II (CHEM120) – 6 credit points
- Ecology: Concepts and Applications (ECOL100) – 6 credit points
- Local Environmental Infrastructure (ENGT237) – 6 credit points
- Australian Aboriginal Sustainability Systems (ENSC220) – 6 credit points
- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
- Foundational Quantitative Methods for Environmental and Rural Sciences (QMER100) – 6 credit points
- Soil Science (SOIL222) – 6 credit points
- Life on Earth (ZOOL100) – 6 credit points
- Vertebrate Zoology - Evolution and Diversity (ZOOL203) – 6 credit points
- Invertebrate Zoology (ZOOL210) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Catchment Science and Management (EM402) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Australian Vegetation (ECOL511) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS581) – 6 credit points
- Sustainable Land Management (RSNR503) – 6 credit points
- Soils in Landscapes (SOIL500) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete the following units:- Plants and Global Change (BOTY505) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Australian Vegetation (ECOL511) – 6 credit points
24 credit points
Complete 24 credit points from the following units:- Introduction to Biology: Cells and Life (BIOL110) – 6 credit points
- Organisms and the Diversity of Life (BIOL120) – 6 credit points
- Plant Physiology and Anatomy (BOTY202) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry I (CHEM110) – 6 credit points
- Chemistry II (CHEM120) – 6 credit points
- Ecology: Concepts and Applications (ECOL100) – 6 credit points
- Ecology - Populations to Ecosystems (ECOL203) – 6 credit points
- Ecological Methods (ECOL204) – 6 credit points
- Local Environmental Infrastructure (ENGT237) – 6 credit points
- Australian Aboriginal Sustainability Systems (ENSC220) – 6 credit points
- Our Blue Planet (GEOL110) – 6 credit points
- Foundational Quantitative Methods for Environmental and Rural Sciences (QMER100) – 6 credit points
- Soil Science (SOIL222) – 6 credit points
- Life on Earth (ZOOL100) – 6 credit points
- Vertebrate Zoology - Evolution and Diversity (ZOOL203) – 6 credit points
- Invertebrate Zoology (ZOOL210) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following including 6 credit points at 400 level or above:- Plant Physiology and Anatomy (BOTY202) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Plant Function and Environment (BOTY302) – 6 credit points
- Mosses and Mushrooms - Cryptogam Diversity (BOTY370) – 6 credit points
- Field Botany (BOTY390) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Genetics and Genomics (ECOL320) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM351) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Biology (EM553) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Environmental Science (ENSC410) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS581) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Biology (EVOL211) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK500) – 6 credit points
48 credit points
For candidates admitted under Rule (b)24 credit points
24 credit points block advanced standing granted for completion of an AQF Level 7 Bachelor qualification in a relevant discipline.24 credit points
Complete ONE of the following Course Work Programs:24 credit points
Complete 18- 24 credit points from the following units:- Plants and Global Change (BOTY505) – 6 credit points
- Developing Your Professional Practice A (DYPP500A) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Australian Vegetation (ECOL511) – 6 credit points
- Environmental and Natural Resource Economics (ECON429) – 6 credit points
- Catchment Science and Management (EM402) – 6 credit points
- Natural Resource Extension (EM510) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM551) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Biology (EM553) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Environmental Science (ENSC410) – 6 credit points
- Applied Research Skills in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS501) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS581) – 6 credit points
- Global Climate Change and the Future (GEPL407) – 6 credit points
- Uncertainty, Science and Policy-Making (GEPL415) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Change in Australia (GEPL508) – 6 credit points
- Catchment to Coast (GEPL511) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Planning and Administration (GEPL535) – 6 credit points
- Spatial Analysis and Modelling (GISC433) – 6 credit points
- Remote Sensing and Image Analysis (GISC436) – 6 credit points
- Working with Aboriginal People (OORA400) – 6 credit points
- Pollution Management (RSNR301) – 6 credit points
- Sustainable Land Management (RSNR503) – 6 credit points
- Overseas Study Experience (OSSE500) – 6 credit points
- Soils in Practice (SOIL431) – 6 credit points
- Soils in Landscapes (SOIL500) – 6 credit points
- Soils, Pollution and the Environment (SOIL510) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK500) – 6 credit points
- Animal Behaviour (ZOOL526) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 0-6 credit points from the following units:- Plant Function and Environment (BOTY302) – 6 credit points
- Mosses and Mushrooms - Cryptogam Diversity (BOTY370) – 6 credit points
- Field Botany (BOTY390) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Plant Populations (ECOL307) – 6 credit points
- Aquatic Ecology (ECOL308) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Genetics and Genomics (ECOL320) – 6 credit points
- Land Assessment for Sustainable Use (EM311) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EM312) – 6 credit points
- Wildlife Ecology and Management (EM323) – 6 credit points
- Natural Hazards (GEPL309) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Biogeography (GEPL341) – 6 credit points
- Earth Observation (GISC331) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to GIS and Spatial Thinking (GISC334) – 6 credit points
- Pollution Management (RSNR301) – 6 credit points
- Ecological and Comparative Physiology (ZOOL327) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Parasitology (ZOOL329) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete the following unit:- Catchment Science and Management (EM402) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 6-12 credit points from the following:- Water in the Environment (GEPL506) – 6 credit points
- Catchment to Coast (GEPL511) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 6-12 credit points from the following including 6 credit points at 400 level or above:- Sustainable Agricultural Water Management (AGWT300) – 6 credit points
- Aquatic Ecology (ECOL308) – 6 credit points
- Land Assessment for Sustainable Use (EM311) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EM312) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM551) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Biology (EVOL211) – 6 credit points
- Applied Research Skills in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS501) – 6 credit points
- Earth in Crisis? (GEPL111) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to GIS and Spatial Thinking (GISC334) – 6 credit points
- Water Law and Governance (LAW207) – 6 credit points
- Pollution Management (RSNR301) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Natural Resource Extension (EM510) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM551) – 6 credit points
- Sustainable Land Management (RSNR503) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Land Assessment for Sustainable Use (EM311) – 6 credit points
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EM312) – 6 credit points
- Wildlife Ecology and Management (EM323) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Biology (EM553) – 6 credit points
- Catchment Science and Management (EM402) – 6 credit points
- Remote Sensing and Image Analysis (GISC436) – 6 credit points
- Soils in Landscapes (SOIL500) – 6 credit points
- Soils, Pollution and the Environment (SOIL510) – 6 credit points
18 credit points
Complete the following units:- Spatial Analysis and Modelling (GISC433) – 6 credit points
- Remote Sensing and Image Analysis (GISC436) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
And complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Earth Observation (GISC331) – 6 credit points
- Introduction to GIS and Spatial Thinking (GISC334) – 6 credit points
6 credit points
Complete 6 credit points from the following units:- Catchment Science and Management (EM402) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Australian Vegetation (ECOL511) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS581) – 6 credit points
- Sustainable Land Management (RSNR503) – 6 credit points
- Soils in Landscapes (SOIL500) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete the following units:- Plants and Global Change (BOTY505) – 6 credit points
- Ecology of Australian Vegetation (ECOL511) – 6 credit points
12 credit points
Complete 12 credit points from the following including 6 credit points at 400 level or above:- Plant Physiology and Anatomy (BOTY202) – 6 credit points
- Plant Diversity (BOTY203) – 6 credit points
- Plant Function and Environment (BOTY302) – 6 credit points
- Mosses and Mushrooms - Cryptogam Diversity (BOTY370) – 6 credit points
- Field Botany (BOTY390) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Genetics and Genomics (ECOL320) – 6 credit points
- Ecosystem Rehabilitation (EM351) – 6 credit points
- Conservation Biology (EM553) – 6 credit points
- Techniques in Environmental Science (ENSC410) – 6 credit points
- Special Topics and Projects in Environmental and Rural Science (ERS581) – 6 credit points
- Evolutionary Biology (EVOL211) – 6 credit points
- Work Integrated Learning - Professional Skills Development (WORK500) – 6 credit points
See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.
Fees and scholarships
How much will it cost?
Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:
Fee type | Cost |
---|---|
Full Fee | $35,994* |
International | $37,296* |
Commonwealth Supported Place (quotas apply) | $9,139* |
Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time | $365 |
*Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.
What are the course fee payment options?
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.
If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.
Full Fee places are mostly in postgraduate coursework degrees. In a full fee place you pay the tuition fee set for your course, however you may be eligible for a FEE-HELP Loan to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.
If you are enrolled in a Full Fee place and there is a direct connection between your work and your study, you may be able to claim your tuition fees as a tax deduction.
UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.
UNE scholarship applications are free and confidential. You may apply for more than one scholarship.
Scholarships
UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.
The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2024. View detailed Bursary information.
UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.
Your career
Environmental science expertise is relevant in many sectors in government and industry and may lead to enhanced opportunities in:
- federal, state and local agencies for environment, land, water and planning
- environmental consultancy
- management and leadership
- mining and oil production
- environmental engineering.
Career opportunities in environmental science are diverse. The Australian Government’s Job Outlook has projected strong future growth in the field, with employment in Professional, Scientific and Technical Services projected to increase by 15% by early 2024. With upgraded skills and a cross-disciplinary understanding of environmental issues, you will add value to your professional role.
Course outcomes
- demonstrate an advanced theoretical and technical knowledge within a chosen discipline of environmental science, including the key environmental challenges, their drivers at various scales, and transdisciplinary approaches to identifying and conceptualising environmental challenges;
- demonstrate a specialised understanding of diverse approaches to environmental science and sustainability, including different frameworks of knowing, understanding of their own and others’ values, knowledge, and ethical positions;
- conduct advanced scientific investigations to critically analyse and evaluate complex ideas, and apply established theories to identify solutions to complex environmental issues. Demonstrate advanced cognitive and technical skills through designing and evaluating environmental practice for sustainability; addressing research questions by identifying, synthesising and applying appropriate knowledge and evidence from diverse sources;
- be effective communicators by disseminating scientific knowledge and concepts to diverse audiences using a range of traditional and contemporary written, oral and visual communication modes; including contexts of a range of knowledge systems and approaches to environmental and sustainability challenges; participating constructively in decision-making consistent with transdisciplinary principles of environmental science and sustainability; and
- be responsible and accountable for personal learning and scientific work by demonstrating initiative and independent judgement in specialised contexts; operating with a high level of personal autonomy through reflective practise and responsibility for all aspects of the work or function of others; planning and executing independent research while complying with regulatory frameworks and practising professional ethics relevant to the management of the environment.
- Knowledge of a Discipline
Students will be required to read literature on practical, conceptual and theoretical aspects of environmental science and natural resources management. Knowledge is built upon from information gathered from environmental systems throughout the world. Thus teaching will draw upon case studies and examples from ecosystems across the globe.
- Communication Skills
Students will be required to express well-organised, logical and clearly written assessment tasks. There is emphasis on the ability to provide clear and accurate descriptions of environmental issues; on writing reports of technical and scientific investigations; and on presenting critical reviews of knowledge.
- Problem Solving
Problem solving is taught in the scientific context of researching the issue, formulating hypotheses in environmental science, and drawing conclusions from the results. Many practical assignments are based around this approach. Problem solving skills are also developed in field and laboratory settings where students decide the best approach to performing tasks. This will prepare students' for dealing with and solving high-level and complex real-world problems that arise in environmental science and management.
- Information Literacy
Students will be taught how to access the literature (especially online resources), how to evaluate the robustness of literature sources (discrimination skills) and how to critique available information. Students will plan and execute a high-level research capacity in written assignments and utilise a wide range of data resources in such a way that others can learn from them.
- Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility
Students are taught ethical practices in relation to the discipline, including respecting intellectual property rights, ethical behaviour in fieldwork and assessment tasks, and honesty and trust as the basis of the cooperative endeavour of science. Students will be encouraged to act ethically and be socially responsible. These are underlying principles of the discipline of environmental science which reduce, minimise or prevent harm to the environment and its multiple inhabitants. Legal obligations and responsibility will also be integrated into the teaching content.
- Lifelong Learning
Students will develop the ability to identify, evaluate and implement personal learning strategies and/or study skills in pursuit of ongoing personal and professional development. Students will continually develop the ability to be responsive to change, have a high-level of personal autonomy and conduct independent research that will be useful to them in a professional workplace.
- Independence and Collaboration
Teamwork is used in classes at all levels, especially in practical work in the field and laboratory. Students develop the skills to work cooperatively to define and achieve common goals, to take initiative and to assume responsibility for tasks. Students will learn in a professional forum to discuss, calmly and rationally, ideas and concepts, sometimes controversial and sometimes from different points of view. This, in addition to the ability to use the language of the discipline in reasoned argument, is one of the aims of online discussions.
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
A five-star experience
Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience
Good Universities Guide 2007-2024No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience
QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience
QILT Student Experience SurveyFive Stars for
Teaching Quality
UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality
Good Universities Guide 2024Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.
As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.
To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.
Studying on Campus
Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.
Stay connected
Register your interest and we'll keep you updated
Why study with us?
The delivery of content is geared towards maximising your understanding of the topic. The lecturers encourage you to ask questions and are happy to help in a non-judgmental way.
Why study with us?
It only requires determination, passion and open-mindedness to study at UNE. It’s a university of great opportunities, resources and support.
How to apply
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Preparing to apply
You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.
The kind of documents you need will depend on:
- Your preferred course/s
- Your personal circumstances
Important Dates
Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.
If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.
Intake | Application Closing Date | Trimester Start Date |
---|---|---|
Trimester 1 | 14 February 2025 | 24 February 2025 |
Trimester 2 | 13 June 2025 | 23 June 2025 |
Trimester 3 | 10 October 2025 | 20 October 2025 |