Applied Science (Environmental Science) - Foundation Degree

Summary

Climate change, flooding, extreme weather and biodiversity loss are no longer distant threats – they’re already shaping communities across the UK and worldwide. Environmental scientists play a vital role in tackling these challenges, using evidence‑based science to protect ecosystems, support sustainable development and build climate resilience.

The Applied Science (Environmental Science) Foundation Degree at Blackpool and The Fylde College places you at the heart of this fast‑growing and socially important sector.

Industry‑designed, career‑focused

Developed in partnership with leading organisations such as the Environment Agency, Natural England and Rivers Trusts, this course is shaped by real workforce needs.

You’ll study a broad range of industry‑relevant topics, typically including:

• Conservation, biodiversity and ecology
• Environmental chemistry and pollution monitoring
• Hydrology, water systems and flood risk
• Ecological surveying and scientific investigation

Strong emphasis is placed on practical skills, including fieldwork, data collection, laboratory techniques and the use of industry‑standard equipment and technologies.

Learn in a unique coastal environment

Studying in Blackpool gives you access to one of the most diverse coastlines in Europe, where natural systems, urban development and industrial activity intersect.

This unique setting, combined with strong links to regional environmental organisations, creates outstanding opportunities for:

• Hands‑on fieldwork
• Real‑world case studies
• Professional networking and industry insight

Careers and progression

This foundation degree prepares you for a wide range of environmental science roles, including:

• Environmental monitoring and assessment
• Conservation and ecology work
• Environmental consultancy
• Laboratory analysis
• Regulatory and environmental agencies

You’ll also be well placed to progress to an honours degree in environmental science or a related subject, supporting long‑term career development and progression.

Make a difference

If you want to protect the environment, tackle climate challenges and build a career with real impact, this course offers a strong, practical route into the environmental science sector.Storms, excessive rainfall, flooding and declining biodiversity are no longer distant challenges – they are shaping communities across the UK and beyond. Environmental Scientists play a pivotal role in responding to these issues, developing evidence-based solutions that protect ecosystems, support sustainable development and build climate resilience. The Applied Science (Environmental Science) Foundation Degree at Blackpool and The Fylde College places you at the heart of this vital and rapidly evolving field.

Co-created with industry partners including the Environment Agency, Natural England and Rivers Trusts, this programme has been designed to meet real workforce needs and prepare you to make a meaningful impact. You will study a broad range of industry-relevant topics, from conservation, biodiversity and ecological surveying to environmental chemistry, pollution monitoring, hydrology and scientific investigation. Strong emphasis is placed on practical skills, data collection, fieldwork and the use of cutting-edge technologies and equipment used by today’s environmental professionals.

Studying in Blackpool offers a unique learning environment. You will be based on one of the most diverse coastlines in Europe, where natural processes, urban development and industrial activity intersect. This exceptional location, combined with close links to regional environmental organisations, provides rich opportunities for hands-on learning and professional networking.

Graduates can progress into roles in environmental monitoring, conservation, environmental consultancy, laboratory analysis or regulatory organisations, or advance to an honours degree for wider career progression. If you want to help shape a more sustainable future, this course offers an excellent springboard to career success in the sector.