Environmental Science SCQF 6 (Online Virtual Classroom) Higher

What is special about this course?

Higher Environmental Science encourages the development of skills and resourcefulness, which lead to becoming a confident individual. Successful learners in environmental science think creatively, analyse and solve problems. Environmental science aims to produce responsible citizens, through studying relevant areas such as the living environment, the Earth's resources and sustainability. Learners will be able to develop their communication and collaborative working skills.

Environmental science is an interdisciplinary subject, which draws from the sciences and social sciences. The course is practical and experiential and develops scientific awareness of environmental issues.

Environmental scientists are involved in tackling issues such as global climate change, pollution, use of land and water resources and changes in wildlife habitats. It involves an understanding of scientific principles, economic influences and political action.

Entry requirements

Learners would normally be expected to have attained the skills, knowledge and understanding required by the following or equivalent qualifications and/or experience:

♦ National 5 Environmental Science Course or relevant component units

♦ National 5 Biology Course or relevant component units

♦ National 5 Geography Course or relevant component units

There are a variety of prior learning experiences which are relevant to candidates wishing to undertake this course which may be taken into consideration.

All applicants will need to satisfactorily complete an interview.

Living environment

The topics covered are:

  • investigating ecosystems and biodiversity
  • interdependence
  • human influences on biodiversity

Earth's resources

The topics covered are:

  • the geosphere
  • the hydrosphere
  • the biosphere
  • the atmosphere

Sustainability

The topics covered are:

  • global challenges
  • food
  • water
  • energy
  • waste management
  • anthropogenic climate change

How will I study my course?

  • Online
  • Online Virtual Classroom
  • Tuesday evenings 6pm - 9pm
  • Optional tutorial 5pm - 5.45pm

You will learn online through timetabled classes delivered by a lecturer in a virtual classroom on Microsoft Teams. You'll use our virtual learning environment to access resources, complete assessments, and chat to your lecturer and classmates. You will have to attend one of our campuses or centres for SQA assessments.

How long will my course last?

The course runs for 4 hours a week over a 34 week period.  The course will be video conferenced from Portree in semester 1 and Fort William in semester 2. The course will also require 4 practical days which will usually take place at agreed times during the year.

Where can I study my course?

    Start date

    September

    Fees

    SCQF 4 - 6 Scottish Fee 

    National 4, 5, Highers and Advanced Highers

    £355

    A fee waiver could be available to help with the payment of your course fees depending on your personal circumstances, please check our fee waiver guidance to see if you are eligible.  

    Fees are payable at the time of enrolment each academic year. Please get in touch with accountsreceivable.nwh@uhi.ac.uk if you have any further questions. 

    Additional costs 

    Some of your assessments may require you to attend a college centre or other approved centre. This travel will be at your own expense but we will discuss these details with you throughout your application.

     

    What can I do on completion of my course?

    Higher Environmental Science provides suitable preparation for further study in subjects such as sciences or accountancy at HNC or degree level. The varied skills, knowledge and discipline offer students preparation for careers in research, environmental project work, waste management and environmental protection, biodiversity or other employment.

    Is there more information available online?

    QR Code - scan to visit course page

    You can use the above QR code to connect directly to the course details.

    Apply for Environmental Science SCQF 6 (Online Virtual Classroom) Higher

    We are no longer accepting applications for 2024/25

    I want to start in 2025/26

    We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI North, West and Hebrides. UHI North, West and Hebrides operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.