Best degrees to fight climate change

According to the World Economic Forum, job vacancies in the eco sector are rising, but professionals with green skills are in short supply.

Job postings for 'green' jobs are also growing nearly twice as fast as the number of workers with the skills to fill them. According to key findings of LinkedIn's Global Green Skills Report, only one in eight people currently have skills relevant to abating the climate crisis.

If you're interested in this area, it's worth knowing that the range of career opportunities in the field of climate science is vast. For example, you could be a climate policy analyst who works with governments to develop and assess policies to mitigate climate change. As a data analyst, you could analyse climate data to identify trends. At the same time, as a geoscientist, you can study the Earth's processes and resources, focusing on how climate change affects geological systems and natural resources.

Between all of these roles are climate educators, fundraisers, PRs, marketing specialists, finance specialists, market analysts, and climate advocates. This means there are multiple ways to get into the field of climate change and help make a difference.

To get into any of these areas, it pays to consider a degree related to climate change and sustainability. By learning more about this area, you can help make a positive impact on the environment. Here are the degrees to consider.

If you're looking to apply for a degree with a climate component, your first port of call should be UCAS, which will give you all the relevant degrees for Environment, Sustainability and Climate Change, such as Climate Change at UCL, Climate change policy and Politics at Loughborough University, and Climate Change and AI at Reading. Aside from these degrees, there are also various options in the following areas.

Climate science

A climate science degree provides students with the knowledge and skills to study the Earth's climate and how it changes over time. It can prepare students for careers as climate scientists or climatologists, who study how climate change may affect the planet in the future.

Environmental science

A degree in environmental science can help you understand the natural environment and make a positive impact on climate change. If you choose a degree in this area, you'll explore how the earth and the environment have evolved and how they interact. You'll also look at climate change, energy sources and carbon emissions.

Environmental engineering

An environmental engineering degree teaches students how to use science to address environmental issues and create a sustainable society. Environmental engineers design products and processes that minimise the impact on air, water, and land. They also work to manage and reduce waste and to recover damaged land.

Meteorology

This is a degree that studies the atmosphere and weather, including how to predict weather and climate. Meteorologists use scientific methods to analyse data from the atmosphere, land, and sea to make predictions about weather and climate.

Sustainability

Sustainability degrees cover various topics, including Environmental Science, sustainable development, climate change, urbanization, environmental justice, and biodiversity.

Many of the more specific climate change subjects are at Masters level, such as the Global Development, Environment and Climate Change MSc at Manchester.

Climate change also intersects various fields, including science, policy, economics, and social justice. Master's programs, therefore, draw on several disciplines to help students contribute to solutions.

What A-levels do I need to study for a climate-related degree?

You'll typically need A-levels in science and mathematics to study climate-related degrees. Universities often require ABB at A-level, including at least one science subject like biology, chemistry, physics, or geology. Some universities may also consider other qualifications, such as the International Baccalaureate, BTEC, or Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).

Is it worth doing an External Project Qualification (EPQ) on climate?

An EPQ can be highly beneficial if you are passionate about a particular subject like climate, as it can enhance your university application and personal statement.

What else can help me when applying for climate-related degrees?

As with all university applications, getting involved in volunteer work and projects related to climate science through school, internships, or local NGOs can show commitment. Participating in environmental initiatives, such as tree planting, conservation projects, or advocacy work, will show your passion and dedication. Leadership roles in environmental societies and clubs at school can also highlight your initiative.

However, you need to keep up with current events and research in climate science through the news, books, scientific research, podcasts, and more.