Geology

Geology MSci & BSc degrees integrate theoretical studies with essential practical skills in the field and laboratory.

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 is fully accredited by the Geological Society of London. 

Geology Degree

Prospectus and How to apply:

Further enquiries: Prof Paul Bown

Together with subject-specific skills, this degree 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).

During fieldwork students learn to apply and develop independent and team skills and problem-solving abilities which complement and build upon lectures and laboratory-based coursework, whist being exposed to the true complexity of natural geological systems.

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.

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.

Year 1 Bsc/MSci 

Core or compulsory modules

Term 1:

Term 2:

Optional modules:

Term 1:

Fieldwork:

Year 2 Bsc/MSci 

Core or compulsory modules

Term 1

Term 2:

Optional modules:

Term 1:

Term 2:

Fieldwork:

  • Pyrenees, part of GEOL0010 (taught in the Easter vacation)
  • Durness, Scotland, part of GEOL0016

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 1:

Term 2:

Optional modules:

Term 1:

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. 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. Other modules are available from the Geography department. Please get permission from both the teaching department and the Undergraduate Tutor. Failure to do so may result in you being rejected from the module.

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.