Major overview
This course is one of 16 majors offered in the Bachelor of Science.
Environmental biologists and ecologists are essential for mitigating the impacts of land degradation, ecosystem disruption and species decline caused by activities such as resource extraction and land-use change.
In this course, you will gain deep knowledge in zoology, botany, ecologyand genetics, with a focus on how living systems respond to and influence environmental change.
You can study Environmental Biology and Ecology as a double degree with Applied Geology, Environmental Engineering, Commerce, Innovation, Law and various Arts majors.
Advanced Science (Honours)
Environmental Biology and Ecology is also available as an Advanced Science (Honours) major. This advanced course focuses on project-based learning, leadership and entrepreneurship, and includes a research project in honours year (fourth year).
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.
Double Degrees
- Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Science (Science)
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Innovation
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Innovation
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours), Bachelor of Science
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 increasing 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
Industries
- Environment and conservation
- Mining and energy resources
- Urban and regional planning
- Government policy and planning
- Research and development
Why study at Curtin?
Practical, industry focus
Gain practical and industry-focused laboratory and field experience.
Tailor your degree
Tailor your degree through specialisation electives, or study a double major with Curtin’s Environmental Science or Marine Science majors to build a comprehensive environmental science degree.
Leading reputation
Curtin is the premier Western Australian university for environmental science, offering majors across the spectrum of environmental science, biology and ecology; and has well-established industry connections.
Major structure
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.
Your final year of study includes 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.
This course gives you the flexibility to study specialisations that match your broader scientific interests – for example, in geology or chemistry. You can also obtain a full-spectrum environmental science degree by doing a double major with Marine Science or Environmental Science, which focuses on the abiotic aspects of environmental management.
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.Double Degrees
- Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Science (Science)
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Innovation
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Commerce
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Innovation
- Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours), Bachelor of Science
Explore more
Find more resources to help you take the next step in your Curtin journey.