Environmental Science

Science

VCE

Go back

In VCE Environmental Science, Earth is understood as a set of four interrelated systems: the atmosphere, the biosphere, the hydrosphere and the lithosphere. This study explores how the relationships between these systems produce natural environmental change over a variety of time scales and how these systems respond to change and disruption. Students investigate the extent to which humans modify their environments and the consequences of these changes in local and global contexts with a focus on biodiversity, pollution, food and water security, climate change and energy use. Students examine the challenges and opportunities presented by selected environmental issues and case studies, and consider how different value systems, priorities, knowledge and regulatory frameworks affect environmental decision-making and planning for a sustainable future.

An important feature of undertaking a VCE science study is the opportunity for students to engage in a range of scientific investigation methodologies, to develop key science skills, and to interrogate the links between theory, knowledge and practice. Students work collaboratively as well as independently on a range of tasks involving controlled experiments, fieldwork, case studies, correlational studies, classification and identification, modelling, simulations, literature reviews, and the development of a product, process or system. Knowledge and application of the safety and ethical guidelines associated with undertaking investigations is integral to the study of VCE Environmental Science.

This study enables students to:

  • develop knowledge and understanding of Earth as a dynamic and complex set of four interrelated systems – atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere and lithosphere – that undergo natural change over various time scales and that affect, and are affected by, human activities
  • understand that sustainable, solutions-focused responses to environmental challenges involve innovative thinking as well as responsible decision-making that is influenced by both regulatory frameworks and the values, knowledge and priorities of multiple stakeholders.

Assessment activities

  • laboratory or fieldwork activities involving the generation, analysis and evaluation of primary data
  • investigations or literature reviews
  • reflective annotations from logbooks of practical activities
  • analyses of data/results
  • analyses and evaluations of case studies
  • response to issues or media articles
  • graphic organisers showing how Earth’s systems are impacted by an action, innovation or management strategy
  • photojournalism articles, presented as an essays or multimedia productions
  • modelling or simulation activities
  • problem solving involving environmental science concepts, skills and/or issues
  • designed solutions to environmental issues or challenges
  • evaluations of stakeholder perspectives in environmental management
  • reports of student-adapted or student-designed scientific investigations
  • exams.

Practical work is a central component of learning and assessment and may include activities such as laboratory experiments, fieldwork, simulations, modelling and other direct experiences.

Selection advice

In undertaking this study, students gain an understanding of the complexity of environmental decision-making, and how innovative responses to environmental challenges can reduce pressure on Earth’s natural resources and ecosystem services.

Links to further pathways

VCE Environmental Science provides direct pathways to a range of careers related to atmospheric sciences, ecology, environmental chemistry and geosciences. The interdisciplinary nature of the study leads to pathways including, but not limited to, architecture, environmental law, engineering, environmental consultancy, environmental advocacy, government policy development, industrial management, landscape design, regional and urban planning, and teaching and research. Environmental scientists also work in cross-disciplinary solutions-oriented areas such as coastal management, climate risk management and disaster risk management.