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Is a BSc (Hons) in Environmental Science good for a MSc in Astrobiology?

I’m looking at going to UEA when I finish my A levels so I can go and study environmental science. I love space and I have always wanted to be a part of the human search for extraterrestrial life, and I believe an astrobiology master’s would do great for that. Birkbeck (University of London) seems to be the only place that offers this master’s. So, would a degree in environmental science equip me well for a master’s in astrobiology?
Original post by Vyshto Andeddu
I’m looking at going to UEA when I finish my A levels so I can go and study environmental science. I love space and I have always wanted to be a part of the human search for extraterrestrial life, and I believe an astrobiology master’s would do great for that. Birkbeck (University of London) seems to be the only place that offers this master’s. So, would a degree in environmental science equip me well for a master’s in astrobiology?


Step 1: Look through the entry requirements for the MSc
Step 2: Other than the grade, note down whether you need to have covered specific content in your undergrad
Step 3: Look through the undergrad to double check the content
Step 4: If the above is insufficient, then contact the postgrad admissions department for Astrobiology at Birkbeck to see if the undergrad meets the requirements.

Birkbeck states the following in their entry requirements (https://www.bbk.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/astrobiology/#1696118400_TMSASTRO_C):
This course is particularly relevant for recent graduates from physical scientific disciplines, such as geological, astronomical and life sciences, planning to undertake PhD-level research in astrobiology.

A degree in environmental science should be sufficient for meet the MSc's entry requirements, as would any degree in astronomy, geology, chemistry, physics, earth sciences, biochemistry, biomedical science, biology, etc.
I would still check with Birkbeck just to be sure. The people you should contact should be Peter Gaunt or Anita Ramu (see:https://www.bbk.ac.uk/departments/earth-and-planetary-sciences/our-staff or https://www.bbk.ac.uk/departments/earth-and-planetary-sciences/contact-us)

Only Birkbeck themselves can confirm whether a certain degree is accepted or not. Everyone else's interpretation and opinions can be different to what Birkbeck means or want.

Do note that Open University and Edinbugh also offer postgrad degrees related to astrobiology, in case you're interested.
(edited 10 months ago)
Original post by Vyshto Andeddu
I’m looking at going to UEA when I finish my A levels so I can go and study environmental science. I love space and I have always wanted to be a part of the human search for extraterrestrial life, and I believe an astrobiology master’s would do great for that. Birkbeck (University of London) seems to be the only place that offers this master’s. So, would a degree in environmental science equip me well for a master’s in astrobiology?

Hey @Vyshto Andeddu

It's great to hear you're wanting to come and study with us! Our Environmental Science course is within the top 10 in the UK and a great gateway into your future career due to the variety of modules you can take. I'd definitely take on board the advice from @MindMax2000 as it's extremely useful but when you start your course you may find other avenues you want to explore so definitely keep an open mind!

Let me know if you have any other questions regarding UEA or Uni life!
Isabella (MSc Brand Leadership) :smile:
Original post by Vyshto Andeddu
I’m looking at going to UEA when I finish my A levels so I can go and study environmental science. I love space and I have always wanted to be a part of the human search for extraterrestrial life, and I believe an astrobiology master’s would do great for that. Birkbeck (University of London) seems to be the only place that offers this master’s. So, would a degree in environmental science equip me well for a master’s in astrobiology?

Just to add to the other replies - the University of Edinburgh also offers a MSc in Astrobiology (https://www.ph.ed.ac.uk/msc-astrobiology-planetary-sciences) and have an excellent free online course by Professor Charles Cockell if you want to see a good introduction to the field (https://www.coursera.org/learn/astrobiology)

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