Environmental Science AQA A level

Applications Open: 3rd November 2025

Applications Close: 23rd March 2026

Entry Requirements: an overall GCSE points score of at least 50 (including grade 4 or higher in both Mathematics and English Language) is required to enrol. You also need to qualify for each of the subjects (minimum 3) you wish to take - a GCSE grade 6 or higher (7 or higher for Mathematics and Music) is required. See our prospectus for full details.

How to Apply: - Please apply via KentChoices

AQA's A-Level in Environmental Science offers students a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic and interconnected nature of the environment. This course explores key environmental processes, human impact on the environment, and sustainable solutions for preserving ecosystems. It is ideal for students passionate about addressing global environmental challenges and seeking a career or further study in fields such as ecology, conservation, environmental management, and sustainable development. It is a great accompaniment to A levels in Maths, Sciences, and Geography, to name but a few.

The AQA Environmental Science A-Level combines scientific theory with practical applications to help students grasp the complexity of environmental systems. The course is divided into several units, as follows:

1. The Living Environment: This unit covers the diversity of life on Earth, ecological interactions, and the significance of conservation. It examines the impact of human activity on ecosystems and the importance of biodiversity.

2. The Physical Environment: Students learn about the atmosphere, water, and land systems. Topics include weather patterns, water cycles, and soil formation, as well as human impacts on these natural systems.

3. Energy Resources: This unit delves into the global energy crisis, exploring both renewable and non-renewable energy sources. Students examine sustainable energy practices and the environmental impact of different energy production methods.

4. Pollution: Students explore different types of pollution, their sources, and their effects on the environment and human health. They also study ways to monitor, manage, and reduce pollution levels through technology and policy.

5. Biological resources: This unit addresses the challenge posed by the need to provide food and forest resources for a growing human population without damaging the planet’s life support systems.

6. Sustainability: A central theme throughout the course, students evaluate strategies for sustainable living, resource management, and how society can reduce its environmental footprint while ensuring economic and social development.

7. Research methods: This includes details of the methods used to investigate a wide range of environmental issues, understanding the general principles of scientific methodology, and applying them to a wide range of environmental situations and techniques in practical work and fieldwork.

The course is assessed through two equally-weighted 3-hour written exams, containing a mixture of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions. Paper 1 covers topics 2, 3, and 4; Paper 2 covers topics 1, 5, and 6. Research methods are assessed in both papers.

The course is assessed through two equally-weighted 3-hour written exams, containing a mixture of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing questions. Paper 1 covers topics 2, 3, and 4; Paper 2 covers topics 1, 5, and 6. Research methods are assessed in both papers.

Students are required to have achieved grade 6 in Mathematics and grade 6 in either Geography or a Science subject (Biology, Chemistry, Physics – or 66 in Combined Science).

Environmental Science A level is accessible to students who have studied either Triple or Combined Science GCSE. There is a mathematical element to the course which assumes prior knowledge and skills from Higher Tier GCSE Maths.