Environmental engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with applying scientific and engineering principles to protect the environment and improve the quality of life to address environmental problems such as air and water pollution, waste management, and climate change.
Environmental engineers use their knowledge of science, engineering, and technology to identify, analyse, and evaluate problems and to design and implement solutions that minimise the negative impact of human activities on the environment; they also work on water and wastewater treatment projects, air pollution control, solid waste management, hazardous waste management, and environmental impact assessment.
Environmental engineering degrees in the UK typically last for three to four years and provide students with a broad understanding of environmental science and engineering principles. Students will learn about environmental chemistry, ecology, water and wastewater treatment, air pollution control, and environmental policy and management.
Some universities in the UK offer specialised environmental engineering degrees such as Environmental Science and Engineering, Environmental Health and Safety Engineering, and Sustainable Engineering. Various scholarships and financial aid options are also available for international students who wish to study environmental engineering.
International students can expect to pay between £17,000 to £27,000 per year for undergraduate environmental engineering degrees in the UK.
Undergraduate environmental engineering degrees will provide students with a strong foundation in environmental science and engineering principles. These courses typically last three to four years, depending on the university and the specific course requirements.
Throughout the degree, students develop a range of skills that are highly valued by employers, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, data analysis, and communication. They also gain experience using state-of-the-art tools and technologies that are commonly used in the field of environmental engineering.
A master's in environmental engineering will provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in environmental science and engineering. MSc environmental engineering courses last one to two years and cover advanced topics such as environmental risk assessment, environmental law and policy, sustainable energy systems, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and water resource management.
Environmental engineering is a rapidly growing field in the UK, with a strong demand for skilled professionals who can address complex environmental challenges.
Graduates of environmental engineering degrees are well-prepared for careers in various industries, including government agencies, consulting firms, energy and utility companies, and research organisations. Environmental engineering jobs include environmental engineer, environmental consultant, sustainability manager, water resource manager, and environmental scientist.
Environmental engineering is a field that offers good earning potential globally. New graduates in environmental engineering typically start at around £22,000 to £28,000 per year but with experience, environmental engineering professionals can expect to earn around £33,000 to £50,000 per year (Payscale.com). Those in senior-level roles or with specialised skills, such as environmental modelling or regulatory compliance, may earn even higher salaries, with some earning over £70,000 per year.
Salaries for professionals can also vary based on the industry sector in which they work. For example, those in the oil and gas sector may earn higher salaries than those in the non-profit or government sectors.
To be accepted into an environmental engineering degree in the UK, applicants will typically need to have completed high school or secondary school with a minimum of five GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades A*-C, including Mathematics, English, and Science. Additionally, applicants will usually need to have completed two or three A-levels (or equivalent) in relevant subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or Biology, with grades typically ranging from ABB to AAA.
International students may also be required to have completed a recognised international qualification equivalent to UK A-levels. Some universities may also accept students with equivalent qualifications, such as BTEC Level 3 Extended Diplomas or Access to Higher Education Diplomas in relevant subjects,
To learn more about the best environmental engineering universities in the UK, find details on the top ranking environmental engineering courses in the Guardian University Guide 2024 below:
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