Environment and Sustainability courses at the OU

The Open University is committed to championing sustainability. Explore our range of courses in environmental sustainability, delivered online and through supported distance learning.

You can view our courses below, including our 10-week microcredential, as well as our undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications.

What you can study

Whether you want to enhance your skills or you’re looking for an exciting new career, The Open University offers courses that will open up a world of possibilities.

Microcredential
Climate change: transforming your organisation for sustainability
(TZVM320)

Develop your knowledge of sustainability, gain perspectives, skills and tools to transform your organisation’s response to the climate crisis, whatever your role or level. In this microcredential, you'll learn the current science on climate change with inspiring case studies, and you’ll develop practical skills to be a catalyst for change to transform your organisation for sustainability.

Level: Undergraduate
Next start: March 2024

Qualification
BSc (Hons) Environmental Science (Q52)

Learn to assess environmental problems, propose solutions, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the natural environment. You’ll study topics, including conservation, ecology, ecosystems, environmental management and renewable energy.

Level: Undergraduate
Next start: October 2024

Qualification
BSc (Hons) Environmental Science (Environmental Management) (Q52)

Develop the scientific and technical knowledge and skills needed to investigate ecosystems, understand environmental patterns, and address environmental issues. You’ll study the problems we face in understanding our natural environment and living sustainably.

Level: Undergraduate
Next start: October 2024

Qualification
BSc (Honours) Combined
STEM (R28)

This flexible degree combines science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects. Build your degree from a variety of STEM modules, or follow our environmental sustainability route.

Level: Undergraduate
Next start: October 2024

Qualification
BA/BSc (Honours)
Open degree (QD)

Our Open degree allows you to bring together different areas of study in a completely flexible way to develop knowledge and skills. There are several predefined routes you can follow including one in environmental sustainability.

Level: Undergraduate
Next start: October 2024

Qualification
Master of Environmental
Science (M05)

Gain a deeper understanding of the natural environment, and learn to assess environmental challenges and propose solutions. You’ll study subjects including conservation, ecology, ecosystems, environmental management and renewable energy. You’ll also learn about the socio-economic, political and ethical issues integral to these areas.

Level: Undergraduate
Next start: October 2024

Qualification
MSc in Environmental Management (F65)

Expand your knowledge and skills needed for effective, informed and creative environmental management. You’ll examine current local and global concerns in areas such as environmental protection, legislation and policy, and natural resource management. Develop your skills in analysing the issues and improving environmental performance in all sectors.

Level: Postgraduate
Next start: May 2024