Environmental Science - Southern Cross University

Discover tomorrow’s solutions

Our environmental science programs are taught by passionate academics focused on developing your practical skills and scientific insight and intuition.

Learn to use drones and GIS equipment for resource mapping and data collection. Explore climate change and leading research and knowledge in environmental protection and policy.

From the reefs to the deserts, the rivers to the forests and all the environments and ecosystems that call this planet home, environmental science is a degree of our world … and for our world.

Ashlee Cable, a Bachelor of Science student, stands in a Southern Cross classroom laboratory with lab coat while her fellow students work behind her surrounded by microscopes, test tubes, screens, and other science equipment.

“I didn't know what to expect attending university ten years after high school. I have found it to be an intense experience, but also rewarding. I feel lucky to have the opportunity and I am committed to where this may lead.”

Apply now to study in 2025

Ready to take the next step? Applications now open.

Apply now to study

Undergraduate

Higher Degrees Research

Why choose Science and Environment with Southern Cross?

Specialised equipment

Learn to use drones and GIS equipment for resource mapping and data collection.

5-star ratings

#1 in Australia for skills development in Agriculture and Environmental Studies (GUG 2024)

Practical and fieldwork

Strong focus on practical and fieldwork in a wide variety of environments, from the forest to the ocean.

Environmental Scientist Professor Damien Maher introduces the Southern Cross University's Catchments, Coasts and Communities Research Cluster. The Catchments, Coasts and Communities Cluster aims to bring together existing research strengths in coastal biology chemistry, aquatic pollution, hydrology, land use management and social sciences to help solve some of these wicked problems that we're facing. Communities are a key social unit that really define the human race. What we want to do is undertake research that improves the lives of communities within the coastal zone. Clean water and sanitization, managing catchments in a sustainable way, and life underwater because the work we do improves water quality in these catchments. Working with community, with government, with industry… these partnerships are what actually will drive change. Southern Cross University has invested heavily in this area since its inception, which has resulted in a critical mass of expertise, knowledge and instrumentation that allows us to do cutting-edge research in catchment sciences. It's an awesome group of academics who are coming together to work within this cluster. The impact that we can provide for the community, for the environment into the future and that's really what's driving and motivation.