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Environment courses

Are you looking to better understand humanity’s relationship with the natural environment? Or do you want to build your ability to work with others to address urgent global challenges such as conflict and poverty? If so, studying an environment course with The Open University is a smart choice.

Diver inspecting underwater environment

EnvironmentDegree 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Stage 3120 credits
Total of 360 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 6 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 3 years


EnvironmentDiploma 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Total of 240 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 4 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 2 years


EnvironmentCertificates 

Stage 1120 credits
Total of 120 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 2 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per 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 was assessed as being 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 background.
  • 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.

OpenPlus – combine OU and campus-based study

If you’re considering study at a campus-based university, but perhaps your qualifications, finances or family commitments are holding you back, then OpenPlus could be the ideal blend of home based flexibility and on-campus university life. For more information about this unique partnership scheme, visit the OpenPlus website.

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 policy and/or consultancy
  • Nature conservation
  • Energy management
  • Pollution control

*For any face-to-face events we’re unable to offer, online alternatives will be provided instead.

Looking for something other than a qualification?

The majority of our modules can be studied by themselves, on a stand-alone basis. If you later choose to work towards a qualification, you may be able to count your study towards it.

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