Earth and Environmental Science

What is the study of Earth and Environmental Science?

The Earth and Environmental Science Stage 6 Syllabus explores the Earth’s renewable and non-renewable resources and also environmental issues. An understanding of the Earth’s resources and the ability to live sustainably on the planet is a central purpose of the study of Earth and Environmental Science.

Students engage with inquiry questions to explore knowledge of the Earth. They also undertake practical and secondary-sourced investigations to acquire a deeper understanding of the Earth’s features and naturally occurring phenomena and cycles. Fieldwork is an integral part of these investigation processes.

The course provides the foundation knowledge and skills required to study earth and environmental science after completing school, and supports participation in careers in a range of related industries. The application of earth and environmental science is essential in addressing current and future environmental issues and challenges.

Why study Earth and Environmental Science?

Earth and Environmental Science is a 2 Unit course which will count towards your ATAR.

Earth and Environmental Science in the HSC is a great foundation for anyone wishing to study a Science course at University.

Possible careers: Environmental Scientist, environmental lawyer, environmental engineer, zoologist, conservation scientist, hydrologist.


What do we study in Earth and Environmental Science?

Year 11 Course Structure

The Year 11 course consists of four modules:

  • Module 1 Earth's Resources

  • Module 2 Plate Tectonics

  • Module 3 Energy Transformations

  • Module 4 Human Impacts

Year 12 Course Structure

The Year 12 course consists of four modules:

  • Module 1 Earth's Processes

  • Module 2 Hazards

  • Module 3 Climate Science

  • Module 4 Resource Management

Course Requirements

Students are provided with 15 hours of course time for depth studies in both Year 11 and Year 12. During this time students may undertake an investigation/activity that allows for the further development of one or more scientific concepts.

A depth study may be one investigation/activity or a series of investigations/activities. Depth studies may be included in one module or across several modules.

Practical investigations are an essential part of the Year 11 and Year 12 courses and must occupy a minimum of 35 hours of course time each year.