Earth Sciences

Earth sciences is the study of our home planet.

Our flexible programme combines ideas and principles of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology and Geophysics. You may also graduate with a degree in Earth Sciences Palaeobiology  dependent on your chosen courses. We explore how our planet works at depth and at the surface, the biological processes that build diversity and cause extinction, the ocean and atmospheric processes shaping climate, and issues relating to resources, geohazards and climate change. As well as a highly flexible General stream, students may chose to follow a Palaeobiology stream within this degree programme. This allows students to take a range of modules in other departments which are not normally available to other students.

Earth Sciences Degree

Prospectus and How to apply:

Further enquiries: Prof Peter Clift and Prof Phil Mannion (Palaeobiology stream)

In entry to the programme, you will select a ‘diet’, following a pathway through the subject (General or Palaeobiology). There is some overlap between these diets and opportunities to switch diets particularly in the first and the second year of study. The holistic nature of the subject is emphasized. Students should normally take at least four half course credits in the Earth Sciences Department each year. Optional modules based in other departments may be chosen from those listed for the Geology, Geophysics or Environmental Geoscience  degree programmes.

The first and second years provide core skills and knowledge in the subject. The third year provides opportunities for specialisation and diversification, with an emphasis on individual initiative and problem-based learning. Up to 30 credits of optional modules in year two and three can be chosen from outside the department. If a student wishes to take a module from outside the department, permission from the undergraduate tutor and/or the programme director and the teaching department that run the module will be needed. Fieldwork provides a unique opportunity to develop independent and team skills and problem-solving abilities. 

Year 1 Bsc/MSci 

Core or compulsory modules

Term 1:

Term 2:

Optional modules:

None

Fieldwork:

Year 2 Bsc/MSci 

Core or compulsory modules

Term 1:

Term 2

Optional modules:

Term 1:

Term 2:

Fieldwork:

Other modules are available from the GEOG and STS departments. Please get permission from both the teaching department and the Undergraduate Tutor and ensure that there are no clashes on your timetable. Failure to do so may result in you being rejected from the module.

Year 3 Bsc/MSci 

Core or compulsory modules

Term 2:

Optional modules

Term 1:

Term 1 & 2:

Term 2:

Fieldwork:

 

Year 4 MSci

MSci Co-ordinator: Prof. Ian Wood

The 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. To progress to year 4 of the MSci programme, you must have a 3rd year average of 60% or better and a nominal BSc award of an upper second, or better. Students who do not fulfil the required criteria to proceed at the end of the 3rd year may be considered for graduation with the award of a BSc Honours degree.

Compulsory modules MSci:

Term 1 & 2

Optional modules MSci:

Term 1:

 Term 2:

Fieldwork:    

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.