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 in the UK
The UK is home to some of the world’s leading universities for sustainability and environmental research. Our 2025 guide highlights the best universities for Environmental Science in the UK, ranked by teaching quality, research output, student satisfaction, and sustainability initiatives. Whether you’re passionate about climate change, biodiversity, or environmental policy, these universities offer the knowledge and practical experience to shape a greener future.
University of York
York is known for its cutting-edge sustainability research and strong employability outcomes. Students benefit from hands-on fieldwork, climate-focused modules, and access to the university’s pioneering Environment and Geography Department.
University of Exeter
Exeter offers interdisciplinary Environmental Science courses supported by world-class facilities like the Environment and Sustainability Institute. Its location near coastal and rural ecosystems provides exceptional fieldwork opportunities.
University of Leeds
Leeds combines academic excellence with active green initiatives. The university’s sustainability strategy and environmental societies give students practical ways to apply their learning beyond the classroom.
University of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a global leader in environmental and climate research. Its supportive learning environment and access to major sustainability projects make it one of the best universities in the UK for environmental study.
University of Sheffield
Sheffield offers a vibrant student community and top-rated teaching in environmental and earth sciences. Students enjoy field trips, modern research labs, and excellent student satisfaction scores.
University of Glasgow
Glasgow combines affordable living with strong environmental teaching. The university is committed to sustainability across campus operations and offers active environmental clubs and volunteering opportunities.
University of East Anglia (UEA)
UEA has a long-standing reputation for climate change and sustainability research. Home to the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research, it provides students with direct access to leading environmental experts and projects.
University of Lancaster
Lancaster focuses on fieldwork and research-led teaching. Its close-knit campus and emphasis on real-world environmental problem-solving help students build valuable practical skills.
University of Birmingham
Birmingham balances academic rigour with strong student support. The university’s environmental courses integrate sustainability, climate science, and policy, supported by modern facilities and expert staff.
University of Manchester
Manchester offers a diverse student community and strong links with environmental employers. Students benefit from research opportunities, sustainability projects, and an active social scene in one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.
Career Prospects After an Environmental Science Degree
Graduates can pursue careers in conservation, environmental consultancy, renewable energy, policy, or research. Many go on to work for government agencies, NGOs, or sustainable business organisations. Related fields include Public Health and Geography.
Entry Requirements for Environmental Science Courses
Most universities require A-levels in sciences such as Biology, Chemistry, or Geography, with typical UCAS points ranging from 120 to 160. Some may also consider relevant work experience or environmental volunteering.
Most Affordable Cities to Study Environmental Science
Sheffield, Glasgow, and Lancaster offer excellent value for money, combining affordable living costs with high-quality teaching and sustainability-focused facilities.
Best Universities for Nightlife and Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Glasgow are top choices for students who want to balance environmental studies with a lively social scene and active green societies.
Student Wellbeing and Study Support
Universities such as York, Exeter, and Sheffield are praised for their mental health services, study support, and wellbeing initiatives — helping environmental science students thrive both academically and personally.
Considering Alternatives to Environmental Science?
If you’re exploring related subjects, consider Biomedical Science, Geology, or Public Health for complementary study paths.
Summary: Which Environmental Science University Is Right for You?
When choosing where to study Environmental Science, consider research strength, sustainability focus, fieldwork opportunities, and location. York and Exeter excel in research and employability, while Sheffield and Glasgow offer excellent value and student experience. Compare your options to find the university that best fits your environmental ambitions.
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