Environmental biology is the study of the natural world – from ecosystems and global patterns to microscopic cellular organisms. It brings together a range of diverse areas, including biology, natural sciences, the marine environment, medical research, and geological and environmental sciences.

This major will help you understand how processes operating at a hierarchy of temporal and spatial scales give rise to the phenotypes of individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems, particularly in the Australian biota. And with the ability to test hypotheses, relate principles and ideas to issues of public debate, and critically evaluate public statements related to biology, you’ll be able to apply your in-depth knowledge and skills to tackle the big climatic issues of today and tomorrow.

Key Features

• This major is available in the Bachelor of Environment – the only degree in Sydney dedicated to environmental issues.
• In your final year, you’ll undertake a work-integrated learning activity with a partner organisation to help prepare you for real workplace scenarios.
• The mix of theoretical and practical components opens opportunities for field trips to places in New South Wales, such as Seal Rocks and Wee Jasper, and to New Zealand and further afield.
• With an understanding of the intertwined aspects of natural and social sciences, and that no environmental issue exists outside a social or political framework, you’ll be prepared to take on a career at the highest level.
• Macquarie is one of only two universities to be given the top rating of five for environmental sciences research in all three Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) evaluations.
• Macquarie is ranked number one in Sydney for teaching quality and overall graduate satisfaction in science (QILT, 2017).

• Biotechnology officer
• Environmental manager
• Environmental researcher
• Environmental scientist
• Forensic scientist
• Hospital scientist
• Patent officer
• Pharmaceutical industry
• Project manager
• Science communication specialist
• Scientific researcher