Environmental science is the study of the interaction between living and non-living elements of the environment and how humans impact on these elements. Environmental scientists assess, research and manage a wide range of environmental issues. They provide solutions to environmental problems that are becoming increasingly apparent worldwide. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) skills in Australia is becoming a fast-growing area creating new and increased job prospects. There is a forecasted growth of 14.4% in the Professional, Scientific and Technical Services Industry and with this brings exciting employment opportunities and career options. The projected high rate of employment growth for 2015 to 2019 reflects ongoing strength and demand for the services of qualified and highly educated workers. Source: Employment Projections This degree: The Bachelor of Environmental Science (Honours) integrates material from a wide variety of disciplines relevant to the environment and its management. These include science, engineering, management, law, technology studies, and philosophy. You will be equipped to understand the ethical, social, economic and political aspects of environmental issues. These skills will help you work with engineers, lawyers, and other professionals. The superb local marine life, coastal landscapes, nearby rainforest escarpment, and fresh-water and terrestrial ecosystems means Wollongong is ideally located for environmental science studies. Students are exposed first-hand to a wide range of urban, rural and ecological issues. You will graduate with real-world experience and will be ready for a career in government, educational and research organisations, private industry, and consultancies. What you will study: In the first and second years of the degree you will learn the basic building blocks of science in the form of introductory Earth science, biology, chemistry, geography, and physics, as well as incorporating the 'language' of science through introductory mathematics and statistics. In the third and fourth years, you will specialise in one of four strands: Earth Sciences Environmental Chemistry Land Resources Life Sciences. An Honours research report with an external organisation is a major component of your fourth year and is an example of work-integrated learning.

Overview of careers: Agricultural Adviser Biochemist Cartographer (Mapping) Chemist Coastal or Estuarine Management Officer Conservation Biologist Drug Regulation Officer Ecologist Environmental Consultant Food Chemist Forensic Scientist Geologist Laboratory Assistant Marine or Fisheries Biologist Materials Scientist Medical Biotechnologist Medical Researcher Oceanographer Science Teacher Veterinary Researcher.