Environment

Environmental issues affect us all – protecting and understanding the natural world are vitally important to tackling global challenges.

The University of Reading has been at the forefront of research into sustainability and the environment for many decades. 100% of our research impact in this area has been classed 'outstanding’ or ‘very considerable’ (Research Excellence Framework 2021, combining 4* and 3* submissions – Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences). The University is among the top ten UK universities for Environmental Sciences in world rankings (Reading is 9th out of the UK universities ranked in the QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2024, Environmental Sciences) and has also been named Sustainable University of the Year in The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.

You can choose to study the environment from a scientific perspective and discover how to develop strategies for tackling important issues such as pollution. You can also study a blend of scientific and socioeconomic elements, and discover how environmental resources can be sustainably managed for different purposes. Alternatively, you may like to focus on ecology and the protection of delicate ecosystems and endangered species.

You will benefit from being taught by staff who are national and international experts in their fields. Our courses bring together expertise from a number of departments, and you will be able to tap into their specialist knowledge. Learn with internationally-recognised academics who are researching global topics such as:

• climate change
• hydrology
• glaciology
• landscapes and ecology
• paleoecology
• dryland environments
• agriculture and forestry
• food systems
• sustainable development.

Facilities

Develop your practical skills in our large teaching labs and analyse geographical data in our high-spec computer suites. You'll have access to the latest software, including Geographical Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and image processing packages.

Benefit from our award-winning campus, which is consistently recognised as one of Britain's top green spaces (Whiteknights campus has been awarded 14 consecutive Green Flag Awards, 2011–2024) and is used by students as a living laboratory. We offer multiple habitats for study, including lakes, hay meadows, woodland, farmland, and extensive parkland. 

Careers and placements

As the demands on the Earth's resources increase, so does the need for well-qualified graduates in this field.

We offer a range of opportunities to develop work-related skills and gain valuable experience during your studies, from year-long placements in industry to partnerships with organisations on research projects.

Our courses have been designed with the needs of employers in mind and our links with organisations such as the Environment Agency, the RSPB, Thames Water and the UK Met Office allow you to gain industry insight through visits, talks and placements. There are also plenty of opportunities to get involved with local wildlife and conservation groups including Conserve Reading on Wednesdays (CROW) and Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT).