Summary

The AQA Environmental Science A Level is a course that will suit those who enjoy a multi-disciplinary approach to learning (thinking across all fields!) and who have a keen interest in sustainability and managing the impact that humans have on the planet. Key topics include the bio-physical environment, energy resources, pollution, circular economy and sustainability, all in the context of real-life case studies. Embedded in the course are opportunities to develop scientific skills in research, methodologies and sampling techniques. It is a good choice to take alongside Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Law or Geography and can lead to more specialised areas of study or employment.

How will I know how I am doing?

The course is a 2 year linear A Level and there is no AS level. At the end of the course you will sit 2 written exam papers, both 3 hours long and worth 50% of the A Level (120 marks each). Practical skills and field work (2-4 days minimum in the field) make up a significant proportion of the course, but are assessed via the written exams and there is no formally assessed coursework.

What do I need to join?

5 GCSE's grade 4-9 including a 5 in Maths and Science.

How will I learn?

Topics studied

The living environment:

Conditions for life on Earth

Conservation of biodiversity

Life processes in the biosphere and conservation planning

The physical environment:

The atmosphere

The hydrosphere

Mineral resources

Biogeochemical cycles

Soils

Sustainability:

Dynamic equilibria

Energy

Material cycles

The Circular Economy

Energy resources:

Evaluation of new extraction/harnessing technologies relating to:

fossil fuels

nuclear power – fission and fusion

renewable energy technologies

new energy storage systems

new energy conservation technologies

vehicle design for use and end of life

building design

Pollution:

The properties of pollutants

How environmental features affect pollution events

Strategies to control pollutants based on their properties and features of the environment

Biological resources:

Agriculture

Aquatic food production systems

Forest resources

What can I do next?

Further University study and/or employment/apprenticeships in many fields including energy, town planning, civil engineering, sustainable architecture, ecology, water supply and treatment, waste management, local or central government (eg councils, DEFRA, Environment Agency, Natural England), charities, education, conservation, research, environmental law, corporate social responsibility, forestry…