Study environmental and life sciences

Students in the School of Environmental and Life Sciences are taught by top academics and use world-class facilities while earning their qualifications. We also have strong connections to industry, which students can access through field trips and career-ready placements.

Study Area

Biodiversity and conservation

If you want to ensure the different species and organisms that inhabit our environment are protected for years to come, then Biodiversity and Conservation is for you. Biodiversity and Conservation students examine the impact of developments upon Australian biota and ecosystems, the management of natural systems and wildlife, and factors affecting the distribution and abundance of species.

Degrees

Biology

Studying Biology you will learn about living organisms, their life cycles and adaptations. You will use the latest tools and techniques with exposure to the discipline of biological science’s strong research focus, both in and out of the laboratory. At the University we have specialists in Animal Biology, Cell and Molecular Biology, Microbiology and Plant Biology.

Career examples

Animal Biologist
Biochemist
Biologist
Plant Scientist

Degrees

Biotechnology

Biotechnology harnesses the natural biochemical and genetic processes of living organisms for our own use. The products of biotechnology are all around us and impact on our daily lives more and more as we learn to make living cells perform useful and specific tasks in a predictable and controlled way. Biotechnology is used to modify human health and the human environment and is currently used in genetic engineering; health and pharmaceuticals; plant and animal agriculture; food production; fuels; and waste management. Your study will see you learn about human and animal diseases, climate change, fuel alternatives and food security.

Career examples

Biochemist
Forensic Biologist
Geneticist
Reproductive Medicine / IVF Specialist

Degrees

Chemistry

Almost everything you touch in the modern world will have a chemist’s input. Chemistry students study the manipulation of atoms and molecules for real-world applications and it plays a key role in virtually all sciences. Through studying chemistry, students help solve problems and shape the world we live in. Chemistry graduates are involved with developing new drugs, new computing devices and better energy storage materials. Specialisations are available in Chemistry of Advanced Materials, Environmental and Analytical Chemistry, and Medicinal and Organic Chemistry.

Career examples

Environmental Chemist
Forensic Chemist
Geochemist
Pharmaceutical Scientist

Degrees

Climate science

Climate scientists address the impact of and response to climate change. As a transdisciplinary problem, expertise and knowledge from many different fields are being applied to solve the climate challenges we are facing. By studying Climate Science, you will use critical and lateral thinking to examine data, find creative ideas for mitigating impact, and explore how human perspectives can influence the progress made combating this crisis.

Degrees

Coastal and marine science

Australia has some of the most unique and diverse coastlines and marine ecosystems in the world. When you study Coastal and Marine Science, you will learn about the interaction between humans and marine ecosystems within the approximately 16.1 million square kilometres of coastal shallows and ocean floor for which Australia is responsible. This specialisation produces graduates prepared for a range of challenges including the conservation of resources, control of pollution and management of species in these areas.

Degrees

Development studies

Development Studies is a transdisciplinary branch of science that explores issues involving urban and regional development, poverty, water security, systemic inequalities and environmental sustainability. Students explore the political and social factors that either enhance or limit development, and work on creating solutions that focus on improving living conditions for those who need it most.

Degrees

Earth Sciences

Earth Sciences play a pivotal role in addressing global issues such as climate change, natural hazards, environmental conservation, and resource management. This multidisciplinary field equips students with a diverse set of skills, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry. Through hands-on fieldwork, laboratory experiments, and cutting-edge technology, students engage with real-world challenges, honing their abilities to analyse, interpret, and communicate complex scientific information.

In a world increasingly shaped by environmental concerns, a degree in Earth Sciences not only empowers students with knowledge but also positions them as agents of positive change, capable of addressing the pressing issues that impact our planet and its inhabitants.

Learn more about our staff here, or our programs below.

Degrees

Environmental management

Studying Environmental Management will empower you with the knowledge required to play a role in solving environmental problems. You will develop specialised management skills and the ability to determine environmental impact assessments against legislation and policy.

Degrees

Food science and human nutrition

Food Science and Human Nutrition (FSHN) is the study of the physical, biological, and chemical makeup of food and its impacts on the human body. It includes natural changes that occur in foods, the concepts underlying food processing, quality management and development, food choices and health impacts. FSHN degrees draw from many disciplines such as biology, chemistry, consumer science, and biochemistry to help you learn about the science of food from production to the consumer. Your study covers a wide range of topics, which prepare you for leading roles as a food and nutrition professional and give you a competitive edge in the job market. FSHN graduates can work in different areas in the food industry, do Honours or higher research degrees in food science.

Career examples

Flavourist
Food Chemist
Food Technologist
Research Scientist

Degrees

Video

Brittany's Story - Employability Excellence Awards

Congratulations to Brittany for being recognised as a Work Integrated Learning Student of the Year in the 2022 Employability Excellence Awards. Hear first-hand about Brittany's experience that led to this achievement.

Human and physical geography

Geography is a diverse discipline that explains the relationships between people and places in the world we live in. When you study Physical Geography, you will investigate earth and water, coastal environments, globalisation and climate change. As a human geographer, you will explore issues involving development, poverty, inequality and environmental sustainability. Together this discipline leads to new ideas and solutions to some of our most complex societal issues.

Career examples

Development Compliance Officer
Demographer
Environmental Geographer
Transport Geographer

Degrees

Hydrology and water resource management

There is no future on our planet without water. Water security, hydrology (the study of the movement, distribution and quality of water) and water resource management are at the heart of the preservation of life on Earth. Our Faculty leads a multidisciplinary approach to address these issues, with our Earth scientists, Environmental Sciences and Geographers working individually and collectively to find solutions to protecting our water sources.

Degrees

Sustainability

Sustainability studies focuses on how to balance using and conserving natural resources. You will learn about how humans use and manage natural resources and environments, and assess the impact of implementing sustainable practices upon communities as well as natural environments.

Career examples

Biodiversity Conservation Officer
Environmental Officer
Sustainability Educator
National Park Ranger

Degrees

STEM

The world’s most complex issues, such as climate change, natural resource management, and food and water security, need to be addressed by those with transdisciplinary skills. By studying STEM, you will learn skills in creative and innovative thinking, ethical and sustainable practice, and communication – becoming a more-than-disciplinary practitioner.

Degrees

The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.

Environmental and Life Sciences

Study environmental and life sciences

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Brittany's Story - Employability Excellence Awards

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School contacts

Acting Head Of School Associate Professor Clovia Holdsworth

School Executive Officer

General Enquiries

College of Engineering, Science and Environment