Education and student experience

At the University of Hertfordshire, we are committed to preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Sustainability is an important part of the student experience, helping students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to contribute positively to society, the economy and the environment throughout their careers and lives.

Whether through academic study, practical learning, extracurricular activities, careers support or volunteering opportunities, students at Hertfordshire have opportunities to explore sustainability challenges and develop solutions that create positive impact.

Our ambition is to empower a generation of sustainability-driven citizens and leaders who can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Sustainability in learning

Sustainability is reflected across a wide range of disciplines and learning experiences throughout the University.

Students engage with sustainability through themes such as:

• climate change;
• environmental management;
• biodiversity;
• sustainable development;
• resource efficiency;
• health and wellbeing;
• social responsibility;
• sustainable innovation.

These themes are explored through teaching, research, project work and practical learning opportunities across many subject areas.

By exposing students to sustainability challenges and opportunities, we help develop graduates who can contribute positively within their professions and communities.

Learning beyond the classroom

Some of the most valuable learning experiences take place beyond traditional teaching environments.

The University provides opportunities for students to apply knowledge in real-world settings through:

• fieldwork;
• research projects;
• placements;
• volunteering;
• community engagement;
• sustainability projects;
• student-led initiatives.

These experiences help students develop practical skills whilst gaining a deeper understanding of sustainability issues and their relevance to future careers.

Learning through our environment

The University’s campuses provide opportunities for students to engage directly with sustainability through practical projects and real-world experiences.

Students can participate in activities relating to:

• biodiversity enhancement;
• environmental monitoring;
• resource management;
• community sustainability initiatives;
• research and innovation projects;
• environmental improvement activities.

Using the campus as a learning environment helps students connect theory with practice whilst contributing to sustainability objectives across the University.

Through engagement with operational sustainability activities, students gain experience of how organisations respond to environmental challenges and opportunities.

Bayfordbury Campus

Bayfordbury Campus is one of the University’s most distinctive learning environments and provides a unique opportunity for students to engage directly with the natural environment.

Located within a diverse landscape of woodland, grassland, scrubland, ponds and a lake, the site supports practical learning across a range of disciplines.

Students use Bayfordbury to:

• undertake ecological surveys;
• conduct habitat assessments;
• monitor biodiversity;
• develop fieldwork skills;
• carry out environmental investigations;
• support research projects.

Through the Life and Medical Sciences Field Centre, students can apply classroom learning within a real-world environment and develop practical skills that support both academic achievement and future employment.

Bayfordbury demonstrates how sustainability can be experienced through direct engagement with the environment, helping students develop a deeper understanding of ecological systems, environmental management and biodiversity conservation.

Sustainability skills and employability

Sustainability is increasingly important across many sectors and professions.

Employers are seeking graduates who can understand environmental and social challenges, think critically and contribute to sustainable solutions.

The University supports students in developing skills such as:

• critical thinking;
• systems thinking;
• collaboration;
• problem solving;
• innovation;
• environmental awareness;
• ethical decision-making.

These skills help prepare students for future careers whilst supporting the development of responsible and informed graduates.

Developing future leaders

The sustainability challenges facing society require leadership, creativity and collaboration.

The University seeks to equip students with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to become future leaders capable of driving positive environmental and social change.

Through learning, research, practical experiences and community engagement, students are encouraged to think critically about the challenges facing society and explore innovative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future.

Graduate Attributes

The University seeks to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to contribute positively to environmental and social challenges throughout their careers.

These attributes include:

• globally minded;
• sustainability driven;
• digitally capable and confident;
• inclusive and collaborative;
• evidence-based and ethical.