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The University of Southampton
Engineering

Chris Hodsman BSc Environmental Sciences

Graduate Environmental Scientist for Gifford Ltd

Chris Hodsman's Photo

My role is varied working in all spheres of the environment... I have been directly using skills gained on the MSc course to review and improve the Environmental Management System (ISO14001). The work is really interesting and I am relishing the opportunity to put skills gained on the course into practice.

What did you enjoy about the course?
The best bit about both the undergraduate and postgraduate courses was the interactive teaching. The staff are passionate and enthuse and challenge students. The degree has helped me grow in confidence and further increased my interest in the subject. There is a great relationship between staff and students and the support is excellent.

What’s Southampton like as a place to study?
Southampton is a great place to study! The university has great facilities for sport and recreation, an excellent library and a lively social scene on campus. Southampton as a city is vibrant with plenty of bars and clubs, there is something out there for everyone! Another great plus for me was the New Forest on your doorstep, only a short train journey away.

Was your degree useful for your career?
Certainly, I have studied both the BSc and MSc in Environmental Sciences at Southampton University. On completion of my BSc I worked as an asbestos surveyor, analyst and consultant for a period of two years before returning to study for my masters which undoubtedly helped me get my current job. Within my section at Gifford there are three people that have done the ES Masters course at Southampton, they hold it in high regard!

Tell us about your career since graduation
I currently work for Gifford Ltd as a Graduate Environmental Scientist. My role is varied working in all spheres of the environment. To date I have been involved in conducting Sustainability Appraisals for projects such as the Mersey Gateway, air quality and contaminated land desk surveys. I have been directly using skills gained on the MSc course to review and improve the Environmental Management System (ISO14001). The work is really interesting and I am relishing the opportunity to put skills gained on the course into practice.

What advice would you give to a student starting out on a ES degree at Southampton?
I would advise any prospective student to fully participate in university life, socially and academically. There is a multitude of different clubs and societies available to cater for your needs. The School of Civil Engineering and the Environment has excellent links with industry so make full use of the expertise available to you!

Why did you choose to study ES at Southampton?
When I left college I knew I wanted to work in the environmental sector but had no idea exactly what I wanted to do! Southampton seemed like the perfect choice, offering a very varied multidisciplinary course where you could pick and choose your modules to suit your interests. I was not disappointed and graduated with an extensive appreciation for different areas of the environment.

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