The study of environmental science is important because it helps students understand the natural environment and the relationships among chemical, biological, physical, and social systems. Students in this field examine natural and human-caused environmental problems, including issues related to species, ecosystems, and natural resources. They are expected to develop creative problem-solving and critical-thinking skills so they can propose research-based solutions. In this article, we will be looking at the best environmental science schools in Europe!
Top Environmental Science Schools in Europe
1. University of Cambridge
The University of Cambridge is one of Europe’s strongest universities for environmental science-related study and research. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across the arts and humanities, sciences, engineering, and social sciences, and it is recognized internationally for research and teaching. Cambridge is made up of 31 colleges, and 29 of these admit undergraduate students.
The undergraduate route most closely aligned with environmental science at Cambridge is Earth Sciences within the Natural Sciences Tripos. Students begin with a broad introduction to Earth science before moving into more specialized study in later years, including Part IB, Part II, and Part III options. The Department of Earth Sciences also highlights fieldwork, independent projects, and advanced specialist topics for upper-year students.
2. University of Oxford
The University of Oxford is a recognized environmental science school in Europe and is the oldest university in the English-speaking world. It is a world-renowned leader in research and education. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, Oxford was ranked first worldwide for the tenth consecutive year.
The university consists of 39 colleges, all of which are self-governing and financially independent institutions related to the central University. Students and researchers from different fields and cultures are brought together through the academic and college communities at Oxford.
The Geography program is completed in three years. It is a distinct discipline that brings together the arts, natural sciences, and social sciences to explore topics such as environmental change, global and regional inequalities, and the reshaping of global cultures and economies. The course structure includes compulsory and foundational courses, optional courses, lectures, seminars, and tutorials. Students also complete a dissertation and may take part in local and overseas fieldwork.
3. ETH Zurich
ETH Zurich is one of the leading universities in Europe and is especially strong in science and technology. The university is known for its research, innovation, and global academic partnerships. It also maintains a strong international reputation, ranking among the top universities in the world.
In the Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zurich offers a Bachelor in Environmental Sciences. This program lasts at least three years and requires 180 credits. During the first two years, students study the foundations of chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, earth sciences, and computer science, along with environmental law and economics. In the third year, students choose from specializations such as Atmosphere and Climate, Biogeochemistry, Environmental Biology, Forest and Landscape, and Human-Environment Systems. A bachelor’s thesis concludes the degree. Keep in mind that the bachelor’s degree is taught in German, while the master’s degree is mainly taught in English.
4. Imperial College London
Imperial College London is another top institution for environmental science in Europe. It is ranked 2nd in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and is a UK university focused on science, technology, engineering, medicine, and business. It is known globally for research, innovation, and service.
The environmental science-related undergraduate course at Imperial College London is the BSc Ecology and Environmental Biology. This program is completed in three years and focuses on the interaction between living organisms, species, and their environment. In the first year, students follow core modules that build essential scientific skills, and the modules become more specialized as students progress.
5. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne
The Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, or École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), is one of Europe’s most cosmopolitan technical universities and a top environmental science institution in Europe. It welcomes students, professors, and staff from more than 120 nationalities and focuses on teaching, research, and innovation.
The Environmental Sciences and Engineering bachelor’s program starts with mathematics and physics in the first year. In the following years, students are trained in environmental science and engineering, including subjects such as environmental chemistry, microbiology, soil science, hydrology, sanitary engineering, and water and waste management. The bachelor’s degree normally requires 180 ECTS credits and is mainly taught in French, with some courses in English.
6. Paris Sciences et Lettres
- Study Program
- Location: France | Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Paris Sciences et Lettres, or PSL, is a research university in the heart of Paris. Université PSL includes the sciences, humanities and social sciences, engineering, and the arts. Its academic community is supported by laboratories, research centers, and member schools that work across disciplines.
The Sustainability Sciences bachelor’s degree is an interdisciplinary program. It covers a variety of subject areas, such as anthropology, chemistry, economics, mathematics, and sustainable development. The program is completed in three years and is designed to help students understand the challenges of sustainable development from scientific, political, social, cultural, and technological perspectives. The program is partly taught in English, with English-taught courses increasing from 40% in the first year to 60% in the second year and 100% in the third year.
7. Polytechnique Institute of Paris
The institution’s official English name is Institut Polytechnique de Paris, or IP Paris. It is a public higher education and research institution focused on science and technology. It now brings together six leading French engineering schools: École Polytechnique, ENSTA, École des Ponts, ENSAE Paris, Télécom Paris, and Télécom SudParis.
At IP Paris, École Polytechnique offers a Bachelor of Science for students with a strong interest in mathematics and science. The program lasts three years, carries 180 ECTS credits, and is taught entirely in English. Students complete a first year of core scientific studies followed by two years of specialization. École Polytechnique also offers the Energy Environment: Science Technology and Management (STEEM) Master of Science and Technology, which focuses on environmental issues, renewable energy sources, and the economic, social, and geopolitical challenges connected to the energy transition.
FAQs about Studying Environmental Science
Which Country Has the Best Environmental Science Schools in Europe?
There is no single official answer to which country has the best environmental science schools in Europe, since the best choice depends on the program, language of instruction, research focus, tuition, and career goals. However, the United Kingdom is a strong option because it has highly ranked universities with environmental science-related programs, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Imperial College London. Switzerland is also excellent for students interested in environmental systems, engineering, and technology, while France offers strong interdisciplinary options in sustainability and environmental science. If you are interested in checking out other courses, please feel free to check out all the available courses on our website.
We hope that this article on the Best Environmental Science Schools in Europe was helpful. If you are interested in learning more, check out the Programs in Europe for International Students!
