Explore the best UK universities for Environmental Science in 2026. These unis excel in sustainability, research, and student experience for future eco-leaders.
Best Universities for Environmental Science: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Leeds | 90 | 92 |
| 2 Silver | University of Exeter | 89 | 89 |
| 3 Bronze | University of York | 88 | 87 |
| 4 | University of East Anglia | 87 | 85 |
| 5 | University of Glasgow | 86 | 82 |
| 6 | University of Birmingham | 84 | 80 |
| 7 | Lancaster University | 83 | 78 |
| 8 | University of Southampton | 82 | 81 |
| 9 | University of Nottingham | 80 | 79 |
| 10 | University of Sheffield | 79 | 77 |
1. University of Leeds Gold
2. University of Exeter Silver
3. University of York Bronze
4. University of East Anglia
5. University of Glasgow
6. University of Birmingham
7. Lancaster University
8. University of Southampton
9. University of Nottingham
10. University of Sheffield
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Environmental Science rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction, sustainability
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Environmental Science Universities Explained
University of York
Known for cutting-edge research, strong sustainability focus, and excellent graduate outcomes.University of Exeter
Offers interdisciplinary courses with access to world-class environmental facilities.University of Leeds
Combines robust academic programs with active student societies and green initiatives.University of Edinburgh
Highly rated for research output and a supportive learning environment.University of Sheffield
Great student satisfaction scores and a vibrant campus community.University of Glasgow
Affordable living, solid teaching quality, and active environmental clubs.University of East Anglia
Strong emphasis on climate change and sustainability in course design.University of Lancaster
Offers excellent fieldwork opportunities and research-led teaching.University of Birmingham
Balanced academic rigor with good student support services.University of Manchester
Diverse student body and strong links with environmental employers.Career Prospects After an Environmental Science Degree
Graduates work in conservation, policy, research, and sustainability roles. Related fields include Public Health and Geography.
Environmental Science Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Entry usually requires A-levels in sciences like Biology, Chemistry, or Geography, with UCAS points between 120 and 160 depending on the university.
Cheapest Cities to Study Environmental Science in the UK
Sheffield, Glasgow, and Lancaster offer great value, combining quality teaching with affordable living costs.
Best Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Glasgow top the list for lively student nightlife and active green societies.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Look for universities like York, Exeter, and Sheffield that provide strong mental health services and study support.
Not Sure About Environmental Science? Consider These Alternatives
Try Biomedical Science, Geology, or Public Health for related subjects.
Summary: Which Environmental Science Uni is Right for You?
Weigh up research strengths, sustainability initiatives, campus vibe, and career support to find your ideal university. Bookmark this guide to compare and decide.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Environmental Science
Leading universities include University of Exeter, University of Leeds, and University of Edinburgh, known for their strong research and sustainability focus.
University of Exeter frequently ranks top due to its cutting-edge environmental research and student satisfaction.
Absolutely, this degree opens doors in sustainability, conservation, policy, and consultancy careers, reflecting growing demand for environmental experts.
Common requirements include Biology, Chemistry, Geography or Environmental Studies. Check specific course pages for exact entry criteria.
Graduates often work in conservation, environmental consultancy, policy development, sustainability roles, and research.
Yes, demand is growing rapidly due to global focus on climate change and sustainability.
Starting salaries usually range between £22,000 and £28,000, increasing with experience and specialisation.
Balancing fieldwork, lab research, and complex data analysis can be demanding but rewarding with the right support.
Yes, it’s highly valued by employers and academia, especially with the rise of sustainability in all sectors.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
