Major overview
This course is one of 13 majors offered in the Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours) degree.
Environmental biologists and ecologists study how organisms interact with each other and with their physical environments. Their knowledge is vital for managing the impacts of human activity on flora and fauna, including repairing habitat degradation and preserving biodiversity.
The field and analytical research undertaken by environmental scientists includes identifying and monitoring plants and animals, with the assistance of technologies such as environmental DNA (eDNA) and geographic information systems (GIS). This information then provides the basis for conservation and management plans that protect at-risk ecosystems and guide sustainable development.
In this course, you’ll gain the deep understanding of biological and ecological processes needed to lead solutions to local and global environmental and ecological challenges.
This is an Advanced Science honours course, designed to prepare high-performing science students to become leaders in sustainable environmental management. As an Advanced Science student, you’ll benefit from immersive, year-long project experiences unique to the course and have the option to source for-credit industry internships.
You’ll also be part of a community of excellence comprising students from across STEM fields in Curtin’s 13 Advanced Science majors. Students work across disciplines, exchange ideas and enhance each other’s learning and networks. You’ll also benefit from engagement with research leaders, industry experts and specialised workshops in entrepreneurship, leadership and communication.
How to study this major
A major is a set of eight or more units you complete as part of a degree, including at least two in your final year. To study this major, you’ll need to apply for one of the degrees listed below.
Career outcomes
Globally, environmental biologists and ecologists are increasingly needed to address and prevent negative impacts on the natural environment caused by urban development and industrial activity. In Western Australia, there is growing demand for expertise in ecological impact assessment, biodiversity monitoring and habitat restoration.
Careers
- Environmental biologist
- Ecologist
- Conservation consultant
- Mine restoration consultant
- Natural resource manager
- Remediated lands consultant
- Sustainability consultant
- Zoologist
- Botanist
Industries
- Environment and conservation
- Resources and energy
- Urban and regional planning
- Government policy and planning
- Research and development
Professional accreditation and recognition
Graduates can seek membership of the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand and the Ecological Society of Australia.
Major structure
What you’ll learn
In the first part of the course, you’ll gain core of discipline knowledge through studies in botany, zoology, ecology, genetics and conservation biology, to understand how biological and ecological processes and environmental changes impact organisms.
You’ll develop environmental monitoring skills through field activities, alongside laboratory and computer-based skills. You'll also learn experimental design and statistics, and develop the critical-thinking and communication skills needed for environmental research.
In addition, this course gives you the flexibility to study specialisations that match your broader scientific interests – for example, in geoscience or chemistry.
You'll complete your studies with a capstone experience that provides hands-on experience in field or laboratory data collection and environmental problem-solving. Together with a work-integrated learning unit, these experiences will ensure that you can apply your expertise to real-world environmental issues as soon as you graduate.
Detailed course structure and unit information
For detailed information and course structure, visit our Handbook.
How to apply
This major is part of a degree. To apply, choose the degree you want to study and review its entry requirements. Then, prepare any required documents and submit your application before the deadline for your chosen intake.
After you receive and accept your offer, you can enrol in this major either at the start of your degree or later in your studies, depending on your course structure.
Choose your degree
To study this major, you'll need to apply one of the degrees listed below.Explore more
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