NEWI puts Environmental Studies on the map

23 July 2007

As the echoes of the worldwide ‘Live Earth’ concert die away awareness of the danger of global warming is at an all time high; yet despite this, every year a significant number of universities are closing their Environmental Science degree courses.

NEWI (North East Wales Institute of Higher Education) is one of the few universities to buck the trend by offering three full-time and part-time BSc Environmental Studies degree routes (Environmental Studies, Environmental Studies (Science) and Environmental Studies (Management).

Course leader Joss Bartlett says: “We’re very happy to be taking the lead with such an important issue. Given the scope of the environmental problems we face today, this type of degree course is more important than ever. The courses we teach focus on various aspects of environmental studies but never lose sight of the pressing need to improve the quality of life for everyone through sustainable development.”

The University of Wales degree courses cover key aspects of environmental legislation and provide opportunities for students to apply their knowledge in field studies in north Wales and the north of England. In addition, students have an opportunity to participate in a residential field course. NEWI Environmental Studies students also work closely with the Shropshire Wildlife Trust.

Armed with a degree in Environmental Studies many NEWI graduates have secured jobs and work experience in the environmental field, among them Mechelle Hala who is involved in a project with Brother industries, and Howard Pimborough who now works for Strateco in Oswestry.