Get real-world experience through extensive fieldwork trips
Pathway to EIANZ accreditation
Learn from experts who share your passion for the environment
Key facts
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2023 close 25 June 2023
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course overview
Throughout the Bachelor of Environmental Science (Environmental Management and Sustainability) you will explore ways to manage the interaction between people and the environment. 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 biggest environmental issues we face on a global scale by exploring the role science and society play 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. Industry placements of 60 to 80 hours provide even more practical experience and the opportunity to work alongside experienced environmental scientists.
Want to play a key role in tackling the world’s most pressing environmental problems?
Throughout this degree, you will learn about environmental processes within a range of environments, how societies use and value these environments, and the tools available to prevent and manage environmental impacts. You will consider sustainability from all angles – from environmental processes to environmental policy – and workshop innovative ways to satisfy society’s needs for clean water, fresh air and healthy soil through sustainable use of natural resources.
With an emphasis on fieldwork and work-integrated learning, everything you learn in the classroom will be tried, tested and challenged in real life. Our passionate, industry-connected teachers break down leading-edge research into easy-to-understand concepts, so you can carry the theory you learn in the class into the field and into professional settings.
Fieldwork opportunities take you to a diverse range of sites and environments, from coastal and national parks, to sustainability centres, business and industry. During these trips you will get the chance to practise advanced field skills such as:
- animal and plant identification
- water quality analysis
- use of global positioning systems (GPS), geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing
- environmental impact assessment.
You will have the opportunity to steer your studies towards your interests and career aspirations by choosing elective units in areas such as coastal and marine management, pollution, waste, climate change, wildlife conservation, sustainable city planning, ecotourism and environmental health.
Through the professional practice unit, you will undertake 60 to 80 hours of professional work experience at a relevant host organisation. You will be able to apply your technical expertise to real-world problems, develop valuable professional networks and skills in leadership, critical thinking and communication – ensuring you graduate job ready.
This unique experience and skill set prepares you for careers in a variety of areas, including:
- environmental management and protection
- pollution control
- land rehabilitation
- water resources management
- nature conservation
- ecotourism
- environmental education
- environmental and sustainability science.
Course information
- Award granted
- Bachelor of Environmental Science (Environmental Management and Sustainability)
- Year
2023 course information
- VTAC code
- 1400516461 - Burwood (Melbourne), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
- Deakin code
- S398
- CRICOS code?
- 075361K Burwood (Melbourne)
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Approval status
This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.
Course structure
To complete the Bachelor of Environmental Science (Environmental Management and Sustainability), students must attain 24 credit points, which must include the following:
- Eighteen (18) core units (18 credit points);
- One of:
- One Minor (4 credit points) and two electives; or
- six (6) credit points of elective units
- Completion of STP050 Academic Integrity (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- Completion of SLE010 Laboratory and Fieldwork Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- Completion of STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- No more than 10 credit points at level 1
- At least 14 credit points over levels 2 and 3
- Level 3 – minimum of 6 credit points at level 3 or above
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. Click here for more information.
Core
Level 1 - Trimester 1
plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 1 - Trimester 2
plus two elective units (two credit points) or two minor units (two credit points)
Level 2 - Trimester 1
Level 2 - Trimester 2
plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 3 - Trimester 1
plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
Level 3 - Trimester 2
plus one elective unit (one credit point) or one minor unit (one credit point)
# Must have successfully completed STP010 Career Tools for Employability (0 credit point unit)
Electives
Select from the range of elective units offered across many courses, including, in some cases, the option to choose elective units from a completely different field (subject to meeting unit requirements).
It is important to note that some elective units may include compulsory placement, study tours, work-based training or collaborative research training arrangements.
Minor sequences
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.
Trimester 1 - March
- Start date: March
- Available at:
- Burwood (Melbourne)
Trimester 2 - July
- 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).
Additional course information
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.
Course duration - additional information
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.
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 classes, 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 the standard holiday breaks listed here: https://www.deakin.edu.au/courses/key-dates.
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
The course includes a compulsory professional practice unit that requires you to undertake at least 80 - 160 hours of work experience in a course-related host organisation. deakin.edu.au/sebe/wil.
Elective units may also provide additional opportunities for Work Integrated Learning experiences.
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Entry requirements
Current or recent Year 12
If you are currently studying Year 12 or completed Year 12 in the previous two years and have not attempted higher education or VET/Polytechnic study since, your selection is based on the following.
VCE 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
This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection consideration.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Higher education study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
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 or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
VET study
If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your secondary education and subsequent academic records as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
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 or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.
Education
This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.
VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies
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 or equivalent.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.
Personal statement
If you wish for your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.
Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection. Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.
Selection adjustments
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
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
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 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
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose to study as each unit has its own costs. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking the first year of this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of Prior Learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for that course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.
You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the Handbook.
Learn more about fees and available payment options.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2024 open in 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.
Direct applications are open for applicants who are not currently in Year 12, including:
- recent Year 12 students who completed secondary education in the past two years
- applicants with work and life experience
- applicants with TAFE study
- applicants with higher education study.
Please note: If you’re applying for more than one course, you need to apply through VTAC.
The Indigenous Access Scheme is a pathway to undergraduate study for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and looks beyond academic results to recognise all the skills, experience and achievements that make you unique and prepare you for study at university.
To apply, complete the online application form.
Entry pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Environmental Science (Environmental Management and Sustainability) with our pathways finder.
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Mon–Thurs, 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–5pm
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Want a degree that’s more than just a qualification? Our industry connections, world-class facilities and practical approach to learning are just some of the reasons why Deakin students graduate confident and ready to thrive in the jobs of tomorrow.
Career outcomes
Your deep understanding of sustainability and extensive fieldwork experience will set you up for career success in a variety of areas:
- environmental planning and policy
- sustainability
- environmental protection
- climate change adaptation and mitigation
- industry-based environmental management
- waste management
- environmental education
- catchment management
- water resource management
- land rehabilitation
- pollution control
- environmental science
- conservation
- coastal and park 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 https://www.eianz.org/membership-information/about-membership
Course learning outcomes
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.
| Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes | Course Learning Outcomes |
| Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | 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. |
| Communication | 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. |
| Digital literacy | Identify and use appropriate digital technologies to locate and evaluate information and communicate with a range of stakeholders in environmental management and sustainability. |
| Critical thinking | 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. |
| Problem solving | 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. |
| Self-management | 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. |
| Teamwork | Demonstrate responsibility and accountability when undertaking different roles to work effectively, ethically and safely in diverse team contexts. |
| Global citizenship | 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. |
Approved by Faculty Board 27 June 2019
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Footnotes
*QS Stars University Ratings 2016-2017
^Excellence in Research for Australia's (ERA) research evaluation framework 2018