Study programme - BSc Environmental Sciences

The bachelor's programme in Environmental Sciences is a three-year programme, and includes 180 ECTS credits (60 credits per year). The European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) is an international system in which each credit represents around 28 hours of study. The Wageningen University & Research academic year is divided into six teaching periods. Usually the first six weeks of each period are devoted to classes and practicums; the seventh week is for private study, to prepare for the exams that are given in week 8. Students take two subjects per teaching period; one morning subject, and one afternoon subject.

Year 1

In the first year you will take a broad set of courses to create a solid foundation but soon you will deepen the knowledge previously acquired and follow some more applied courses. You will follow some basic courses such as mathematics, statistics and chemistry. You will also follow courses about soil processes, water and environmental technology in your first year. At the end of the year you can apply your knowledge and insights in a real life context.

Year 2

Courses on air quality, environmental policy and system earth are part of the second year. You gain a deeper understanding of the area that appeals to you most by choosing one of three specialisations: Environmental Quality and Systems Analysis, Environmental Technology or Environmental Policy and Economics. You will end the second year with a knowledge integration course in which you try to solve a real life case with your group in a sustainable way. During this course you will go abroad with your fellow students to carry out the research on location

Year 3

During the third year you gain more extensive knowledge in your specialisation, which you can apply in your individual thesis. The other semester is available for elective courses at Wageningen University & Research or at another university in the Netherlands or abroad.

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