Course overview
The Bachelor of Science with Honours in Environmental Science at the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) is a comprehensive programme that equips students with the knowledge and skills to address today’s critical environmental and sustainability challenges. Combining theoretical foundations with hands-on experience, this degree covers key topics such as global environmental change, sustainable development, nature and biodiversity conservation, natural resource management, and advanced data analysis.
Accredited by the Institute of Environmental Sciences (IES) this programme reflects our commitment to preparing students for professional impact in environmental and sustainability sciences.
Guided by world-class researchers, students gain exposure to the latest developments in the field through engaging lectures, practical fieldwork, and research projects. The curriculum offers flexibility, allowing students to specialise in areas aligned with their interests and aspirations, such as tropical ecology and conservation, environmental policy, and GIS technologies. Graduates emerge as adaptable professionals, ready to create sustainable solutions for local, national, and global environmental issues.
Why choose this course?
- Comprehensive Learning: Gain in-depth knowledge of key environmental topics, including global change, sustainable development, nature and biodiversity conservation, and advanced data analysis, blending theory with practical application.
- Research-Led Teaching: Learn from expert academics actively engaged in advanced environmental research, providing insights into the latest developments and innovations.
- Hands-On Experience: Participate in fieldwork, lab sessions, and a substantial final-year research project to develop real-world problem-solving skills.
- Customised Pathways: Tailor your studies to your interests with modules in tropical ecology, GIS technologies, environmental policy, and more, aligning with diverse career aspirations.
- Accredited Excellence: This programme is accredited by the Institution of Environmental Sciences (IES) through its education committee, the Community for Environmental Disciplines in Higher Education (CEDHE), ensuring graduates are well-prepared for professional careers in environmental and sustainability fields.
Modules
Year 1
Core modules
- Environmental Science and Society
- Global Environmental Processes
- Introduction to Geographic Information Systems
- Introduction to Sustainable Development
- Introductory Geology
- Natural Resources of Malaysia
- Plant Science
- The Ecology of Natural and Managed Ecosystems
- Tutorials in Environmental Science
Year 2
Core modules
- Global Environmental Change: Part 1
- Environmental Data Analysis: Part 1
- Global Environmental Change: Part 2
- Environmental Data Analysis: Part 2
Optional modules
- Agrifood Production Systems
- Earth Observation
- Environmental Assessment
- Environmental Politics
- Forest, Environment and Society
- Materials and Sustainable Processes
- Tropical Water and Soil Science
- Diversity of Life
- Patterns of Life
- Tourism and the Environment
- Tropical Environmental Science Field Course
Year 3
Core module
- Research Project in Environmental Science
Optional modules
- Advanced Environmental Assessment
- Advances in GIS and Remote Sensing for the Environmental Sciences
- Environmental Modelling
- Environmental Politics
- Environmental Policy, Law and Governance
- Environmental Pollution and Remediation
- Introduction to Tropical Conservation Science
- Landscape Ecology and Spatial Conservation Planning
- Materials and Sustainable Processes
- Tropical Ecology
- Wildlife Behaviour
Entry requirements
All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.
Entry requirements
| A Level | BCC, including two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics. Other science subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Excludes Critical Thinking and General Studies. |
| IB Diploma | 24 points with 5, 4 at Higher Level, including two science subjects, preferably from Biology (HL), Chemistry (HL), Geography (HL), Mathematics (HL), or Physics (HL). Other science subjects at Higher Level may be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| STPM | BC+C+, including two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics. Other science subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Excludes Pengajian Am. |
| UEC | 3 B3s and 2 B4s, including two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics. Other science subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Excludes Bahasa Malaysia and Chinese Language. |
| Australian Year 12 | ATAR 78. Applicants are required to meet specific grade standards in two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics. To fulfil these A Level standards, specific grade equivalents in the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (SSCE) are required. |
| Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) | 75% average based on 6 subjects, including two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics. Other science subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants must also meet specific grade requirements for subjects required at A Level: 75% for a C and 81% for a B.
Canadian Secondary School Diplomas from other provinces are acceptable and will be assessed based on the University’s requirements. |
| Gaokao (NCEE) and Senior High School Diploma (China) | 68% average in the Gaokao, including two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics, with at least one subject at 75% and the other at 73%. In addition, a minimum of 70% overall in the Senior High School Diploma, with at least 70% in Mathematics and two Science subjects, which must include Biology, Chemistry, Geography, or Physics.
Gaokao scores are converted from 750 to a percentage scale. |
| Senior School Certificate Examination (CBSE) / Indian School Certificate (CISCE) – Class XII | 75% average from the best four subjects, including two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics, with at least one subject at 80% and the other at 70%. Excludes local language, Environmental Education, General Studies, and Physical Education. |
| Advance Placement (AP) | 4, 3, 3, including two science subjects, preferably from AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Geography, AP Calculus, or AP Physics. Other science subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| Diploma – Local Institutions | Entry to Year 2 is assessed on a case-by-case basis, typically requiring a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 and good grades in two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics. Other science subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| Foundation – Local Institutions | Acceptance is at the School’s discretion and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0 and good grades in two science subjects, preferably from Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Mathematics, or Physics. Other science subjects may be considered on a case-by-case basis. |
| Nottingham’s Foundation Programme | Successful completion is required. |
This list is not exhaustive, and we accept a wide range of qualifications. Eligibility will be fully determined upon the submission of a completed application..
English language requirements
| IELTS (Academic): | 6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in each element) |
| TOEFL (iBT): | 80 (minimum 17 in Writing and Listening, 18 in Reading and 20 in Speaking) |
| PTE (Academic): | 65 (with no less than 59 in each element) |
| GCE A Level English Language or English Literature: | Grade C |
| GCE AS Level English Language or English Literature: | Grade C |
| SPM: | CEFR level B2 |
| GCSE O-Level: | Grade C / 4 |
| IGCSE (first language): | Grade C / 4 |
| IGCSE (second language): | Grade B / 6 |
| MUET: | Band 4 |
| UEC: | Grade B3 |
| IB English A1 or A2 (Standard or Higher Level): | 4 points |
| IB English B (Higher Level): | 4 points |
| IB English B (Standard Level): | 5 points |
| OSSD English (ENG3U/ENG4U) (No fast-track route): | 75% |
| CBSE/CISCE Class XII or Class X: | 70% overall (confirmation of English as the medium of instruction required) |
- IELTS (Academic), TOEFL iBT, and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old.
- IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted.
- IELTS Academic Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, and PTE Academic Online are not accepted.
- MUET results are valid for five years from the release date.
- OSSD English (ENG3U/ENG4U) with the required grades will only be accepted if applicants have completed all 30 credits from standard OSSD courses, not through credit exemptions. Fast-track routes are not accepted.
- CBSE/CISCE Class XII or Class X English with the required grades will only be accepted if applicants provide a confirmation letter stating that English was the medium of instruction throughout schooling from Class X to Class XII.
Foundation progression options
The Nottingham’s Foundation Programme is a 1-year pre-university course that prepares students for direct progression to UNM’s undergraduate degrees. It builds a strong academic foundation while enhancing language, critical thinking, and study skills. Students can also explore elective modules tailored to their chosen degree pathway.
Careers
This programme equips graduates to address the growing environmental and sustainability needs of society and businesses, preparing them for careers across various roles and industries.
- Conservation Officer
- Corporate Sustainability Strategist
- Project Manager
- Sustainability Executive
- Site Engineer
Are you ready to embark on an exciting career journey after graduation? At the University of Nottingham Malaysia, our Careers Advisory Service is here to support your career aspirations. We offer a range of professional services, including résumé writing assistance and interview preparation, to equip you with the tools needed to excel in today’s competitive job market. Contact careers@nottingham.edu.my to learn more.
