• Want to understand and respond to climate and environmental changes?

• Are you interested in studying plants, animals, soils, glaciers, and landscapes?

• Do you enjoy working with maps, satellite data, and environmental analysis tools?

• Want to influence how natural resources are used and protected?

• Are you interested in land-use planning and environmental management?

• Want to contribute to nature conservation and sustainable development?

• Are you interested in working professionally with Icelandic nature and natural resources?

The programme provides a comprehensive introduction to the natural sciences, combining ecological geological, and environmental perspectives. Students gain knowledge of:

• Ecosystem functions and ecological processes Interactions between living organisms and their environment

• Natural processes within Icelandic ecosystems

• Sustainable management of natural resources

The programme emphasizes interdisciplinary thinking, enabling students to approach environmental challenges from multiple scientific perspectives. Students also gain practical experience using modern analytical tools, including mapping technologies and environmental data analysis.

Applicants must hold: A matriculation examination (Stúdentspróf), or another upper-secondary qualification recognized as equivalent by the university.

It is recommended that applicants have prior knowledge equivalent to:

• Level 2 in natural sciences (chemistry, physics, biology, and geology)

• Level 3 in English, particularly for reading academic texts

• Level 2 in mathematics, including algebra and basic equation solving

The programme consists of 180 ECTS credits, typically completed over three years of full-time study.

Students complete:

• 60 ECTS credits per year

• 168 ECTS of compulsory courses

• A 10 ECTS final project and BSc thesis

The curriculum focuses on processes within Icelandic nature, examining how living organisms and environmental factors interact and how these systems are affected by human activity.

Students are introduced to the major groups of organisms found in Iceland and explore how environmental conditions shape ecosystems. The programme also examines approaches to sustainable use of natural resources.

The International Office of LBHÍ assists students and staff in participating in studies and collaboration abroad. This includes exchange programmes through Erasmus+ and Nordplus, as well as other exciting international projects. Here you can find information and support for applying for exchange studies, grants, and opportunities to study and work with people from other countries.

Graduates in Natural and Environmental Science can pursue careers in a wide range of environmental and scientific fields. Examples of employers include public institutions such as:

• The Icelandic Institute of Natural History

• The Environment Agency of Iceland

• The Soil Conservation Service of Iceland

• The Icelandic Forest Service

• The Marine and Freshwater Research Institute

• The Icelandic Meteorological Office

Graduates also work within municipalities and local government, contributing to areas such as:

• Environmental management

• Planning and maintenance of public spaces

• Mapping of land, infrastructure, and built environments

• Land-use and environmental planning

• The programme is also an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing teaching qualifications in natural sciences at primary or secondary school level.

Students who complete specific courses may also have their studies recognised towards ranger certification through the Environment Agency of Iceland.

The university has an active student association, Nemendafélag LBHÍ, under which various clubs operate and organize events throughout the year, including:

• Baula – The Bovine club
• Grani – The Equestrian club
• Hreðjar – The Ovine club
• Dafnar – The Forestry Association
• Genus Loci – Association of Landscape Architecture Students
• Auður – The Caprine club