Key facts
UNE unit code: EM312
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- Yes
- Yes
- 6
Unit information

With environmental impact assessment becoming increasingly important across many sectors involved in the planning and management of Australia’s natural resources, equip yourself with practical skills and knowledge that is in demand.
Studying this unit, you will be introduced to the key principles and philosophies, processes and constraints of impact assessment in Australia today.
You will discuss impact assessment relevant to different settings, including mining and processing, water resources, nature conservation and biodiversity, agriculture and infrastructure development, along with appropriate methods and techniques for assessment.
Delving into current policy, legislative and administrative features, you will also explore issues at the local, state and federal government levels.
Practical work offers you hands-on experience with the preparation and review of environment impact statements for resource development, using real-world scenarios.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
| Start | Finish | Duration | Attendance | Offerings | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TBA | TBA | 3 days | Mandatory Intensive School | All offerings | The intensive school is mandatory for both online and on-campus students. Dates to be advised. |
Enrolment rules
Notes
On campus and online students must attend the three-day mandatory intensive school in April. All seminars will be made available on the EM312 website as audio podcasts. It is expected that on campus and online students will access and utilise these podcasts. On-campus students will attend a combined weekly seminar, some of which are presented by guest lecturers who are recognised specialists in their topic.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- understand the concepts and philosophies for environmental impact assessment (EIA) and how they are applied in the Australian context at local, state and federal government levels;
- identify and critically evaluate methods and techniques for EIA and understand how they are applied to major natural resource sectors;
- apply the EIA requirements to critically evaluate the quality of an industry standard Environmental Impact Statement;
- understand and explain the strengths and weaknesses of EIA; and
- identify and understand future trends in the use and application of EIA.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Practical Book | Yes | 40% | All offerings | No. Words: 3500 |
| Quizzes | Yes | 10% | All offerings | A series of quizzes No. Words: 500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Environmental Impact Assessment in Australia
ISBN: 9781862879454
Thomas, I. and Elliott, M., Federation Press 6th ed. 2013
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?

UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.