Subject Benchmark Statement: Earth Sciences, Environmental Science and Environmental Studies
Publication date: 30 Mar 2022
Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Environmental Studies
Subject Benchmark Statement
Subject Benchmark Statements describe the nature of study and the academic standards expected of graduates in specific subject areas. They show what graduates might reasonably be expected to know, do and understand at the end of their studies.
Below you will find the full Subject Benchmark Statement for Earth Sciences, Environmental Science and Environmental Studies. Alongside it, we have also published a summary designed to provide a short and accessible overview of the main Statement for students, employers and academics.
Subject Benchmark Statement: Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences and Environmental Studies - The Basics
Publication date: 30 Mar 2022
About this subject
Earth sciences, environmental sciences and environmental studies (ES3) are rooted in sustainability. They are both multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary by nature, overlapping with science and humanity-based disciplines, including biology, chemistry, geography, informatics and physics. Outcomes include knowledge and skills that provide graduates with a wide range of competencies, preparation for future employment and awareness of key challenges in sustaining a habitable planet.
The ongoing climate emergency and biodiversity crisis, as well as other threats to the natural environment, require action at every level - from global and national political commitment to practical measures at a local level. Graduates in ES3 subjects will be required to ensure actions and decisions are based on sound science, and take into account equity, equality, diversity and inclusivity to deliver long-term, sustainable solutions.
Dr Sian Davies-Vollum - Chair of the Advisory Group
Head of School - Built and Natural Environment, University of Derby
The revised Statement for Earth Science, Environmental Science and Environmental Studies firmly places sustainability, employability, and equality, diversity and inclusivity at the core of an ES3 education. In doing so, it supports the development and delivery of degrees that prepare students to take actions and make decisions that underpin the equitable solutions required to secure a sustainable future for all.
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