Environmental Science Australia

Biology, Chemistry & Environmental Science

When it comes to studies in environmental science, we leave other universities green with envy.

We offer a range of highly ranked degrees that can lead to decidedly different careers in fields such as biological sciences, environmental management, chemistry, environmental forensics, health and more.

In addition to learning from award-winning staff, you'll have access to the latest facilities in the purpose-built $28 million Science building, located on our Joondalup Campus.

ECU does research into helping mines operate more sustainably

When people think of sustainability they rarely think of mining, which by its very nature is not sustainable.

Mining companies are beginning to think outside the box though and ECU has been funded to research not only minimising environmental damage resulting from mining operations but also maximising benefits to local communities.

One case of this research is currently taking place at mining company, Kemerton Silica Sand.

The threatened black stripe minnow is found on their project area just north of Bunbury and study is being done into the ecological requirements of this species.

This study project is in a wetland environment that is under increased threat to loss of biodiversity and it is hoped that information gathered from the study will help rehabilitate other mined areas.

Dr David Goodhall recognised for his contributions to ecology

Honorary Research Fellow at ECU, Dr David Goodhall's longstanding career in ecology was recently recognised by the Ecology Society of Australia which awarded him its Gold Medal for 2008.

Although Dr Goodhall's early career was in plant physiology, while at the University of Melbourne (1948-1952) he transferred his research interest into ecology where he introduced several innovations, most notable being the concept and word "ordination" method which is now embedded in all ecology courses and textbooks.

In 1994 Dr Goodhall was named "Distinguished Ecologist" by the sixth International Congress of Ecology.

Dr Goodhall continues to study the use of numerical methods to classify plants, areas of vegetation and other entities which can be described by a great variety of attributes. He has developed a series of interlinked computer programs specifically for this purpose which are still being improved and expanded upon.

State-of-the-art facilities

Biology, Chemistry & Environmental Science students and researchers have access to the latest facilities and equipment in the University's state-of-the-art, award-winning Science and Health building.

This ecologically-friendly building includes a range of features to reduce energy consumption by maximising the use of rainwater, solar energy and natural light. The principles of environmental science and protection are also reflected in its design.