Environment explores the relationships between people and the natural world, from ecosystems and climate to social, economic and political influences. At The Open University, you’ll engage with scientific, geographical and social perspectives through flexible study. You’ll build the knowledge and skills to address issues like sustainability, environmental change and resource management. Our qualifications prepare you to make a real-world impact in fields such as conservation, environmental policy, planning and research.
Environment
Degrees
Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Stage 3120 credits
Total of 360 credits
How long will it take?
Part-time: 16–18 hrs/week for 6 years
Full-time: 32–36 hrs/week for 3 years
Environment
Diplomas
Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Total of 240 credits
How long will it take?
Part-time: 16–18 hrs/week for 4 years
Full-time: 32–36 hrs/week for 2 years
Environment
Certificates
Stage 1120 credits
Total of 120 credits
How long will it take?
Part-time: 16–18 hrs/week for 2 years
Full-time: 32–36 hrs/week for 1 year
Why study Environment with The Open University?
Our research directly informs our course materials – in the most recent Research Excellence Framework results, 69% of our development studies research and 76% of our geography and environmental studies research were assessed as world-leading or internationally excellent.
Study environment with us, and you’ll benefit from:
A combination of interdisciplinary and more specialist courses to suit different backgrounds.
The opportunity to take part in both residential field schools and virtual fieldwork.
Regular contact with your tutor and our student support team, there to support you on your learning journey.
Courses that are cutting-edge, accessible to all and recognised as such by employers and professional bodies.
Careers in Environment
Environment-related issues affect every aspect of our lives – from local decisions about waste management to the global challenges of climate change. Employers are increasingly looking for people with the knowledge and understanding needed to stay ahead in this fast-changing and critically important area.
Some examples of career areas in environment include:
Environmental education and outreach
Environmental policy and/or consultancy
Nature conservation
Energy management
Pollution control
Renewable energy and sustainability
Environment standalone modules
Study individual modules to build your skills or explore a new interest – and count them towards a qualification if you decide to take your studies further.
See our full list of Environment modules
All Environment courses
Browse all the Environment courses we offer – certificates, diplomas and degrees.
See our full list of Environment courses
Interested in postgraduate study?
We also offer a range of postgraduate Environment courses.
See our full list of postgraduate Environment courses
