The Department of Environmental Sciences (DES) equips diverse, working-world learners with the knowledge and skills to understand, protect, and sustainably manage South Africa’s natural and built environments. By blending scientific insight with real-world application, DES programmes empower students to address urgent environmental challenges facing communities, industries, and ecosystems. DES prides itself with the fact that it develops professionals who are industrial leaders and global experts in the field of environmental sciences, sustainability, and environmental management. 

• What Makes us unique
• Our Programmes
• Learning that goes beyond the classroom

Impact and Relevance

The Department of Environmental Sciences plays a critical role in addressing the most pressing environmental and socio-economic challenges in South Africa and the world. Through teaching, learning and research focused on climate resilience, sustainable land and water management, biodiversity conservation, environmental and social justice, and green-economy transitions, the department supports national priorities such as food security, disaster risk reduction, and equitable development. Its work in areas like indigenous knowledge systems, sustainable production, pollution monitoring, urban sustainability, and community-centred environmental management contributes directly to global agendas including the SDGs and UNGC Principles positioning the department as a driver of innovation, sustainability, and long-term environmental and societal wellbeing.

Why study with us?

• Studying in the Department of Environmental Sciences at UNISA gives you future-ready skills to tackle some of South Africa’s most urgent environmental and sustainability challenges.
• You learn from experts who connect scientific knowledge with real-world industry, community, and policy needs.
• Flexible open-distance learning lets you advance your career while studying from anywhere.
• Most importantly, a qualification from this department positions you to make a meaningful, measurable impact on the environment, society, and the economy.