Course overview
In this course you will explore ways to manage the interaction between people and the environment, ready for a career that makes a positive impact on our world. Combining the latest research with extensive application of skills in professional, community, lab and field settings, you will devise and implement innovative solutions to protect natural resources in local and global contexts.
Develop the confidence to address some of the world’s biggest environmental challenges by exploring the role of science and society in achieving global sustainability. Fieldwork is a rewarding part of this course, and you will get plenty of opportunities to apply your skills in beautiful outdoor and community settings. Join one of only two universities in Victoria with Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ) accreditation for undergraduate environment and sustainability courses.
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2027 close 7 February 2027
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Environmental Science and Sustainability
- Year
2027 course information
- VTAC code
1400516461 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
- Deakin code
- S398
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 116267J Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7
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Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Environmental Science and Sustainability you must pass 24 credit points. This includes:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit-point compulsory unit) in your first study period
- SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit-point compulsory unit)
- 18 credit points of core units
- 6 credit points which may comprise of:
- 1 minor (4 credit points) and 2 credit points of open elective units
- 6 credit points of open elective units
- a maximum of 10 credit points at level 1
- a minimum of 14 credit points over levels 2 and 3
- a minimum of 6 credit points at level 3.
Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
You are required to complete 18 core units (these are essential units for this degree)
In your first trimester you must also complete three 0-credit point units which are compulsory for this degree.
Level 1 - Trimester 1
plus one open elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 1 - Trimester 2
plus two open elective units (two credit points) or two minor units (two credit points)
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Level 2 - Trimester 2
plus one open elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 3 - Trimester 1
Level 3 - Trimester 2
plus two open elective units (two credit points) or two minor units (two credit point)
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit)
You have the option to choose up to six open elective units from across the University, including from a completely different study area (subject to meeting unit prerequisites).
It is important to note that some elective units may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
You have the option to complete one minor sequence (four units) to complement your degree and broaden your skills (this will use your open electives).
Refer to the details of each minor sequence for availability.
Intakes by location
The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
- Start date: July
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
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Course expenses
In addition to student contribution fees, students should be aware that they may be required to meet their own expenses in connection with food and accommodation while on fieldwork.
Other course information
This course was previously titled Bachelor of Environmental Science (Management and Sustainability).
Mandatory student checks
Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.
Workload
You can expect to participate in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, seminars, practicals and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.
Participation requirements
Placement can occur at any time, including during standard holiday breaks. Learn about key dates at Deakin.
Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Work experience
This course includes a compulsory professional practice unit that requires you to undertake at least 80 hours of work experience in a course-related host organisation. Explore the SEBE WIL program.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
If you're currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and have not undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter – it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Subject adjustment
A study score of 30 in Environmental Science, any English, any Mathematics or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 10 points.
Access and equity
Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the recognition of prior learning (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Estimated tuition fee - (CSP) ?Enrolling in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your course fees directly to Deakin, and you pay a 'student contribution'.
$10,700 for 1 yr full-time - Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
Learn more about fees.
The estimated tuition (student contribution) fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your student contribution is determined by the units you enrol in and will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning. You may also be eligible for a HECS-HELP loan to defer payment of all or part of your student contribution.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply through VTAC
Applications for Trimester 1, 2027 will open on 3 August. Each year, thousands of students prepare for uni with the help of Deakin support services. We offer a huge range of support, including one-on-one consultations, webinars, online resources and events throughout the year.
Apply directly to Deakin
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
Indigenous Access Scheme
You can apply for this course through the Indigenous Access Scheme, which recognises the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and considers the skills, experience and community work that prepares you for study. We look beyond your ATAR and academic results so we can reward your hard work with a place at university.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Environmental Science and Sustainability with our pathways finder.
Articulated courses:
Career outcomes
Your deep understanding of sustainability and extensive fieldwork experience will set you up for career success in a variety of areas, including:
- climate change adaptation and mitigation
- catchment management
- coastal and park management
- conservation
- environmental education
- environmental management
- environmental protection
- land rehabilitation
- planning and policy
- pollution control
- sustainability reporting
- waste management and resource efficiency
- water resource management.
EIANZ membership is open to environmental practitioners at all stages of their career – from those still completing their studies to established experts. The EIANZ (Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand) is a leading professional body in Australia and New Zealand supporting environmental practitioners and promoting independent and interdisciplinary discussion on environmental issues. For full membership details, visit the EIANZ website.
Professional recognition
The Bachelor of Environmental Science and Sustainability is professionally accredited by the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ). As a student of this course, you are encouraged to apply for EIANZ student membership and connect with the professional network that can support your future career as an environmental professional.
Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.
| Course Learning Outcomes |
|---|
| Demonstrate a broad and coherent knowledge of the environmental sciences (natural and social sciences) and a depth of knowledge in environmental management and sustainability. Integrate and apply knowledge and skills, safely, ethically and objectively, within a range of diverse contexts – professional, community, lab and field settings. |
| Communicate information, conclusions and arguments clearly and coherently to specialist and non-specialist audiences for a range of purposes and in a variety of modes. |
| Identify and use appropriate digital technologies to locate and evaluate information and communicate with a range of stakeholders in environmental management and sustainability. |
| Critically analyse and evaluate information from an interdisciplinary range of sources in order to define and provide solutions to real-world environmental problems integrating the principles of the triple-bottom line. |
| Apply traditional and emerging information, technologies and methods to collect, record, collate, investigate and solve real world and ill-defined problems in environmental management and sustainability. |
| Demonstrate an ability to work and learn independently and take responsibility for personal actions by: a) undertaking self-directed learning; b) working responsibly, safely and ethically in evolving contexts within the field of environmental management and sustainability. |
| Demonstrate responsibility and accountability when undertaking different roles to work effectively, ethically and safely in diverse team contexts. |
| Articulate the diverse array of professional, academic and community contexts in which environmental management and sustainability graduates may work. Explain ethical practices and recognise the social, political, economic and environmental contexts relevant to professional conduct within which environmental management and sustainability are practiced globally. |
Note – From 2026, Deakin commenced introducing Graduate Attributes (GAs), which define the distinctive characteristics of a Deakin graduate. You may notice some courses still refer to Graduate Learning Outcomes (GLOs) during this transition period.
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.
