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Geology rocks.
The programme includes studies of the nature of rocks and minerals, their mode of origin and environment of formation; the study of past life and palaeoenvironments; the physics and chemistry of the Earth and major Earth processes such as plate tectonics and mountain building (tectonics).
Prospectus:
Further enquiries:
Together with subject-specific skills, the MSci also provides a strong intellectual and practical platform for those who wish to pursue non-geological careers as it integrates a wide range of ideas from many different scientific disciplines, including chemistry, physics and biology, and provides training in the application of scientific methods and knowledge to complex problems.
The programme includes studies of the nature of rocks and minerals, their mode of origin and environment of formation; the study of past life and palaeoenvironments; the physics and chemistry of the Earth and major Earth processes such as plate tectonics and mountain building (tectonics).
The programme includes field courses and independent field mapping projects. The field provides a natural laboratory where students can learn to apply and develop skills which complement and build upon lectures and laboratory-based coursework whilst being exposed to the true complexity of natural geological systems.
The first two years of the BSc and MSci programmes will be the same. However, the additional fourth year of the MSci allows for an individual research project and advanced options, providing extra depth and breadth of knowledge. We recommend you apply for an MSci initially, as this keeps more options open.
Modules:
- Year 1
Term 1 - Autumn Term
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Compulsory: GEOL0001 15 Earth Materials GEOL0007 15 The Earth GEOL0008 15 Geochemistry Options: GEOL0005 15 Foundations of Physical Geoscience (compulsory for students without A-Level Mathematics) MATH0049 15 Mathematics (A-Level Mathematics required) HPSC0008 15 Science Communication and Public Engagement HPSC0009 15 Revealing Science Term 2 - Spring Term
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Compulsory: GEOL0002 15 From Petrology to Petrogenesis GEOL0003 15 History of Life GEOL0004 15 Dynamic Earth GEOL0006 15 Surface Processes Fieldwork: Dorset/Devon Coast Part of GEOL0006 Surface Processes(takes place in the Easter vacation) Cornwall/Devon Coast Part of GEOL0002 From Petrology to Petrogenesis - Year 2
Term 1 - Autumn Term
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Compulsory: GEOL0009 15 Vertebrate Palaeontology & Evolution GEOL0012 15 Global Geophysics GEOL0015 15 Maps, Images & Structures GEOL0016 15 Structural Geology & Tectonics Fieldwork:
Scotland
Part of GEOL0015 Maps, Images & Structures (taught at the end of the preceding summer vacation) Term 2 - Spring Term
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Compulsory: GEOL0010 15 Surface Processes & Structures GEOL0011 15 Igneous Petrology GEOL0017 15 Isotope Geology Options: GEOL0013 15 Principles of Climate GEOL0018
15 Numerical Methods for Earth Sciences HPSC0023 15 Evolution in Science and Culture HPSC0036
15 Engaging the Public with Science Fieldwork: Pyrenees Part of GEOL0010 Surface Processes & Structures (taught in the Easter vacation) - Year 3
Term 1 - Autumn Term
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Compulsory: GEOL0024 30 Geological/Environmental Mapping Project Options: GEOL0021 15 Biodiversity & Macroevolutionary Studies GEOL0029 15 Seismology I GEOL0022 15 Ocean Physics and Climate Change GEOL0032 15 Metamorphism and Metapmorphic Processes Fieldwork: Mapping Part of GEOL0024 Geological/Environmental Mapping Project Term 1 & 2
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Options: GEOL0014 15 Geosciences Report Term 2 - Spring Term
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Compulsory: GEOL0057 15 Geodynamics and Global Tectonics GEOL0023 15 Crustal Dynamics, Mountain Building & Basin Evolution (fieldtrip only; no classroom element) GEOL0025 15 Earth Resources & Sustainability Options: GEOL0027 15 Groundwater Science GEOL0028 15 Marine Geology GEOL0031 15 Advanced Geochemistry Fieldwork: SE Spain GEOL0023 Crustal Dynamics, Mountain Building & Basin Evolution (fieldtrip only: no classroom element) - Year 4
MSci Co-ordinator: Prof. David Dobson
Before entry to the Fourth Year of an MSci course, a student should normally have passed at least 165 credits at Level 6, and achieved a mean mark of at least 60% for the Third Year of study.
Term 1 - Autumn Term
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Options: GEOL0026 15 Earth & Planetary Materials GEOL0052 15 Physical Volcanology & Volcanic Hazard GEOL0043 15 Tectonic Geomorphology GEOL0044 15 Palaeoceanography GEOL0035 15 Sustainable Management of the Environment Term 1 & 2
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Compulsory: GEOL0072 45 Independent MSci Project GEOL0039 15 Earth & Planetary System Science Term 2 - Spring Term
Module Code Credit Value Module Title Options: GEOL0054 15 Earthquake Seismology & Earthquake Hazards (places are limited and cannot be guaranteed) GEOL0045 15 Palaeoclimatology GEOL0040 15 Melting and Volcanism GEOL0046 15 Deep Earth & Planetary Modelling GEOL0036 15 Advanced Biodiversity and Macroevolutionary Studies Fieldwork: Germany Part of GEOL0039 Earth & Planetary System Science
Your Learning
We use a mixture of lectures, practical classes, field courses, directed reading, problem-orientated learning, private study and tutorials to enable you to gain the theoretical knowledge and practical skills demanded by the programme, as well as to develop key transferable skills such as critical analysis, report writing, team working and organisational skills.
Assessment
You will be assessed by a combination of written examinations, practical examinations, coursework, independent project reports and an oral examination.