Earth Sciences MSci Earth Sciences (Palaeobiology) MSci
Earth sciences is the study of our home planet. Our flexible programme combines ideas and principles of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology and Geophysics. 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 choose 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.
Key information
Key information
Entry requirements
Please note that the study options available after enrolment to this course may have additional requirements. Choose a study option for full details.
- Grades
- AAB
- Subjects
- Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Physics preferred.
- Subjects
- Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Physics preferred.
- GCSEs
- English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4
Contextual offer
- Grades
- BBB
- Subjects
- Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Physics preferred.
- Subjects
- Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Physics preferred.
- GCSEs
- English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4
At least two A level subjects should be taken from UCL's list of preferred A level subjects.
- Points
- 36
- Subjects
- A total of 17 points in three higher level subjects to preferably include two sciences, with no higher level score below 5. Biology, Chemistry, Geology/Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Physics preferred
- Subjects
- A total of 17 points in three higher level subjects to preferably include two sciences, with no higher level score below 5. Biology, Chemistry, Geology/Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Physics preferred
Contextual offer
- Points
- 32
- Subjects
- A total of 15 points in three higher level subjects to preferably include two sciences, with no higher level score below 5. Biology, Chemistry, Geology/Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Physics preferred
- Subjects
- A total of 15 points in three higher level subjects to preferably include two sciences, with no higher level score below 5. Biology, Chemistry, Geology/Geography, Mathematics, Further Mathematics or Physics preferred
The English language level for this programme is: Level 1
Information about the evidence required, acceptable qualifications and test providers can be found on our English language requirements page.
A variety of English language programmes are offered at the UCL Centre for Languages and International Education.
The Undergraduate Preparatory Certificates (UPC) prepare international students for a UCL undergraduate degree who do not have the qualifications to enter directly. These intensive one-year foundation courses are taught on our central London campus.
Typical UPC students will be high achievers in a 12-year school system which does not meet the standard required for direct entry to UCL.
For more information see: ucl.ac.uk/upc.
Additional requirements for Earth Sciences (Palaeobiology) MSci
There are no additional requirements for this study option.
Please see details of Earth Sciences MSci for the entry requirements of the overall course.
About this course
On entry to the course, you will select one of two a pathways through the subject. These are either the General Earth Science stream, which allows the most flexibility in your choice of modules, or the Palaeobiology stream, which allows a range of more focussed modules, some not normally available to other students. The course includes many optional modules across Earth Sciences.
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. Fieldwork provides a unique opportunity to develop independent and team skills and problem-solving abilities.
The first three years of the MSci course are almost identical to the BSc course. However, the additional fourth year of the MSci allows for an individual research project and advanced optional modules, providing extra depth and breadth of knowledge.
The Palaeobiology specialism will provide you with a strong background in the evolutionary history of life, including interactions with Earth’s climate. It will teach you the cutting-edge methods that enable our understanding and reconstructions of past life, as well as how we incorporate this information into addressing the current biodiversity crisis. Delivered by experts spanning the full range of palaeobiological-related disciplines, from the origin of life to present-day biodiversity, and from the smallest life forms to the giant dinosaurs, our flexible degree stream also allows you to focus on an Earth or Life Sciences route to becoming a palaeobiologist.
This course allows you to select from a range of options offered across environmental geosciences, geology and geophysics and compulsory modules from across earth sciences and biological science. The third year has an emphasis on individual initiative and problem-based learning. We also offer MSci course variants incorporating independent-research components, which are intended as an entry route for high-level professional employment or postgraduate education and research.
Course structure
The Earth Sciences MSci course is intended to provide a complete education and training that will qualify students for a wide range of high-level professional employment or postgraduate education and research within and outside the subject area. We also offer a Study Abroad variant incorporating a year abroad see separate course summary .
In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules usually 8 per year , normally valued at 15 credits. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from year-to-year.
In Year 1, for the general Earth Science degree you will follow a set of mandatory modules which are similar to our other degree courses. In this year you will develop a fundamental knowledge base in both practical, theoretical and field-based skills. A Mathematics module is taken appropriate to A level background.
The Palaeobiology stream has a somewhat different set of modules which can be seen on our web site.
In Year 2, you will be able to take a wide range of optional modules, depending on your interests. You will develop specific skills used in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data and take modules which build on the first year course.
In Year 3, you again will be able to take a wide range of optional modules depending on your interests and career place, and will have considerable scope to develop an individual portfolio of interests through a range of advanced, research-based optional modules. The modules include research-based activities and independent projects that match students to researchers one-to-one.
In Year 4, you will gain specific training in research skills in preparation for postgraduate education or a professional career in Earth sciences. You will further develop your interests by choosing from a range of level 7 optional module, usually aligned with their chosen research project.
A major independent research project provides a focal point for the year and students are involved in project choice and design, perform the work within major research teams, and produce outputs that frequently lead to professional presentations and publications. The year closes with an Undergraduate Research Conference attended by students, staff and alumni.
Course structure
In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules usually 8 per year , normally valued at 15 credits. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from year-to-year.
In Year 1, for the Palaeobiology specialism you will follow a set of mandatory modules which are similar to our other degree courses. In this year you will develop a fundamental knowledge base in both practical, theoretical and field-based skills. A Mathematics module is taken appropriate to A level background.
In Year 2, you will now be able to take a wide range of optional modules, depending on your interests. You will develop specific skills used in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data and take modules which build on the first year course.
In Year 3, you again will be able to take a wide range of optional modules depending on your interests and career place, and will have considerable scope to develop an individual portfolio of interests through a range of advanced, research-based optional modules. The modules include research-based activities and independent projects that match students to researchers one-to-one.
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 course, 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.
Modules
In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 15 or 30 credits, adding up to a total of 120 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 30-credit module is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).
Please note that the list of compulsory modules given here is indicative. Up to 10 optional modules per year are displayed for this course: this may not be the full range of optional modules available for selection. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available. For more detail regarding module availability, please contact the department.
Compulsory modules
- Earth Materials (GEOL0001)
- History of Life (GEOL0003)
- Dynamic Earth (GEOL0004)
- Surface Processes (GEOL0006)
- The Earth (GEOL0007)
- Geochemistry (GEOL0008)
- Maps, Images and Structures (GEOL0015)
Optional modules
In year one, those taking the General Strem will take a set of compulsory modules in the Earth Science department. These are similar to our other degrees and provide the background and fundamentals required for further years. Â
Those on the Palaeobiology Stream will have a somewhat difference set of modules and will take two compulsory modules in the Biology Department Quantitative Biology and Introduction fo Genetics and Geochemistry, Earth Materials and Dynamic Earth will become optional modules.
Earth Sciences General Pathway:
As well as the three compulsory modules, you will also take GEOL0001 Earth Materials, GEOL0003 History of Life, GEOL0004 Dynamic Earth, GEOL0008 Geochemistry, GEOL0015 Maps, Images & Structures and EITHER GEOL0005 Foundations of Physical Geoscience is compulsory for students who do not have A-Level Maths or equivalent OR GEOL0078 Mathematical Methods for Geoscience is compulsory for students who have A-Level Maths or equivalent.
Earth Sciences Palaeobiology Pathway:
As well as the three compulsory modules, you will also take GEOL0003 History of Life, GEOL0015 Maps, Images & Structures, BIOL0001 Quantitative Biology, BIOL0003 Introduction to Genetics. 60 credits and select a further 30 credits from GEOL0001 Earth Materials, GEOL0008 Geochemistry, BIOL0004 Life on Earth, BIOL0006 Methods in Ecology and Evolution.
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
- Vertebrate Palaeontology and Evolution (GEOL0009)
- Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (GEOL0010)
- Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (GEOL0011)
- Global Geophysics (GEOL0012)
- Principles of Climate (GEOL0013)
- Structural Geology and Tectonics (GEOL0016)
- Isotope Geology (GEOL0017)
- Numerical Methods for Earth Sciences (GEOL0018)
- Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing (GEOL0073)
- Introduction to Environmental Geoscience (GEOL0076)
In year two, both stream have a considerable number of optional modules. Those listed in this prospectus are for the General Stream. Those on the Palaeobiology Stream will have additional options available in the Biology Department too. These are listed on our departmental web pages.
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
- Geosciences Report (GEOL0014)
- Biodiversity and Macroevolutionary Patterns A (GEOL0021)
- Ocean Physics and Climate Change (GEOL0022)
- Crustal Dynamics, Mountain Building and Basin Evolution (GEOL0023)
- Geological and Environmental Mapping (GEOL0024)
- Earth and Planetary Materials (GEOL0026)
- Groundwater Science (GEOL0027)
- Environmental Geochemistry (GEOL0031)
- Tectonic Geomorphology (GEOL0043)
- Paleoclimate and Paleoenvironmental Change (GEOL0045)
There is considerable choice for both stream. Above are those available to the General Stream. Those for the Palaeobiology stream can be viewed on our web pages.
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
- Seismic Risk Assessment (CEGE0033)
- Mining and Mineral Processing (CENG0035)
- Advanced Biodiversity and Macroevolutionary Studies (GEOL0036)
- Physical Volcanology and Volcanic Hazard (GEOL0041)
- Palaeoceanography (GEOL0044)
- Geological, Geotechnical and Hydro-meteorological Hazards (GEOL0062)
- Meteorological and Hydrogeological Hazards (GEOL0066)
- The Science Policy and Ethics of Climate Intervention (GEOL0067)
Both Streams take the same two compulsory modules Independent MSci Project and Earth and Planetary System Science with the rest of the modules as options.
The modules shown below are an indicative list of those currently available as part of the full degree. This includes modules that may be available before selecting a study option and those that may be available after a student moves onto the study option.
Compulsory modules
- Quantitative Biology (BIOL0001)
- Introduction to Genetics (BIOL0003)
- History of Life (GEOL0003)
- Surface Processes (GEOL0006)
- The Earth (GEOL0007)
- Maps, Images and Structures (GEOL0015)
Optional modules
In year one, those taking the General Strem will take a set of compulsory modules in the Earth Science department. These are similar to our other degrees and provide the background and fundamentals required for further years. Â
Those on the Palaeobiology Stream will have a somewhat difference set of modules and will take two compulsory modules in the Biology Department Quantitative Biology and Introduction fo Genetics and Geochemistry, Earth Materials and Dynamic Earth will become optional modules.
Earth Sciences General Pathway:
As well as the three compulsory modules, you will also take GEOL0001 Earth Materials, GEOL0003 History of Life, GEOL0004 Dynamic Earth, GEOL0008 Geochemistry, GEOL0015 Maps, Images & Structures and EITHER GEOL0005 Foundations of Physical Geoscience is compulsory for students who do not have A-Level Maths or equivalent OR GEOL0078 Mathematical Methods for Geoscience is compulsory for students who have A-Level Maths or equivalent.
Earth Sciences Palaeobiology Pathway:
As well as the three compulsory modules, you will also take GEOL0003 History of Life, GEOL0015 Maps, Images & Structures, BIOL0001 Quantitative Biology, BIOL0003 Introduction to Genetics. 60 credits and select a further 30 credits from GEOL0001 Earth Materials, GEOL0008 Geochemistry, BIOL0004 Life on Earth, BIOL0006 Methods in Ecology and Evolution.
Compulsory modules
- Animal Biodiversity (BIOL0012)
- Vertebrate Palaeontology and Evolution (GEOL0009)
- Geographical Information Systems and Remote Sensing (GEOL0073)
Optional modules
- Fundamentals of Molecular Biology (BIOL0008)
- Evolutionary Genetics (BIOL0011)
- Fundamentals of Ecology (BIOL0014)
- Sedimentology and Stratigraphy (GEOL0010)
- Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (GEOL0011)
- Structural Geology and Tectonics (GEOL0016)
- Isotope Geology (GEOL0017)
- Numerical Methods for Earth Sciences (GEOL0018)
- Introduction to Environmental Geoscience (GEOL0076)
- Introduction to Mineral Resources (GEOL0077)
In year two, both stream have a considerable number of optional modules. Those listed in this prospectus are for the General Stream. Those on the Palaeobiology Stream will have additional options available in the Biology Department too. These are listed on our departmental web pages.
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
- Primate Behaviour and Ecology (ANTH0060)
- Vertebrate Life and Evolution (BIOL0035)
- Geosciences Report (GEOL0014)
- Geological and Environmental Mapping (GEOL0024)
- Paleoclimate and Paleoenvironmental Change (GEOL0045)
- Applied Geoscience for Mineral Resources and the Environment (GEOL0068)
- Artificial Intelligence for Earth Observations (AI4EO) (GEOL0069)
There is considerable choice for both stream. Above are those available to the General Stream. Those for the Palaeobiology stream can be viewed on our web pages.
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
- Vertebrate Life and Evolution (BIOL0035)
- Advanced Biodiversity and Macroevolutionary Studies (GEOL0036)
- Palaeoceanography (GEOL0044)
- Paleoclimate and Paleoenvironmental Change (GEOL0045)
- Statistics for Geoscientists (GEOL0061)
- Artificial Intelligence for Earth Observations (AI4EO) (GEOL0069)
- Volcanoes, Society and the Environment (GEOL0070)
Both Streams take the same two compulsory modules Independent MSci Project and Earth and Planetary System Science with the rest of the modules as options.
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 course, as well as to develop key transferable skills such as critical analysis, report writing, team working and organisational skills.
Fieldwork can be an important part of the Earth sciences but because this course is flexible it allows students to choose from a wide range of aspects from within the subject, both practical and theoretical. There is a compulsory Year 1 field trip as part of GEOL0015 but modules that include field work in Years 2 and 3 are optional. If these are to be chosen by the student, they must also take the required prerequisite modules. Field work assessment is via independent and team-based real-world exercises, often enquiry-based, with outputs that include written notes, maps, section logs, data analyses, scientific sketches and presentations.
On return to UCL these field observations may form the basis for reports, fair-copy maps, oral presentations, posters, logs and cross sections. An independent mapping project (30 credits) may be taken in the third year allowing students to design, plan, execute and write-up a major independent piece of Earth sciences related research. Our field-based modules currently take place in Dorset (UK), Scotland, the Pyrenees (Spain), the Betics (Spain) and Germany. Mapping projects take place in a variety of locations, in the UK or abroad.
Fieldwork can be an important part of the Earth sciences but because this course is flexible it allows students to choose from a wide range of aspects from within the subject, both practical and theoretical. There is a compulsory Year 1 field trip as part of GEOL0015 but modules that include field work in Years 2 and 3 are optional. If these are to be chosen by the student, they must also take the required prerequisite modules. Field work assessment is via independent and team-based real-world exercises, often enquiry-based, with outputs that include written notes, maps, section logs, data analyses, scientific sketches and presentations. On return to UCL these field observations may form the basis for reports, fair-copy maps, oral presentations, posters, logs and cross sections. An independent mapping project (30 credits) may be taken in the third year allowing students to design, plan, execute and write-up a major independent piece of Earth sciences related research. Our field-based modules currently take place in Dorset (UK), Scotland, the Pyrenees (Spain), the Betics (Spain) and Germany. Mapping projects take place in a variety of locations, in the UK or abroad.
You will be assessed by a combination of written examinations, practical examinations, coursework, independent project reports and sometimes an oral examination.
Typical weekly contact hours in the first three years will be 8 hours of lectures and 8 hours of practicals. Lecturers are also available for help outside these formal hours, as well regular tutorial sessions. During field trips, student will have constant contact with several members of staff except for the independent mapping . Students are also expected to do an additional 15 to 20 hours per week independent study.
Typical weekly contact hours in the first three years will be 8 hours of lectures and 8 hours of practicals. Lecturers are also available for help outside these formal hours, as well regular tutorial sessions. During field trips, student will have constant contact with several members of staff except for the independent mapping . Students are also expected to do an additional 15 to 20 hours per week independent study.
The department will endeavour to make reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities, including those with long-term health conditions, neurodivergence, learning differences and mental health conditions. This list is not exhaustive. If you are unsure of your eligibility for reasonable adjustments at UCL, please contact Student Support and Wellbeing Services.
Reasonable adjustments are implemented on a case-by-case basis. With the student's consent, reasonable adjustments are considered by UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services, and where required, in collaboration with the respective department.
Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information about support available can be obtained from UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services.
For more information about the department and accessibility arrangements for your course, please contact the department.
Fees and funding
| Study mode | UK fee (2026/27) | Overseas fee (2026/27) |
|---|---|---|
| Full time | £9,790 | £42,700 |
UK undergraduate fees for 2026/27 are subject to parliamentary approval and are for the first year only. Fees for subsequent years may be subject to increase: Student Terms and Conditions. UK fees are in line with the Government announcement on fee cap increases. Fees for 2027/28 entry will be published in August 2026.
International undergraduate students benefit from a cohort guarantee unless indicated below, meaning that their tuition fees will not increase during the course of the programme, but UCL reserves the right to increase tuition fees to reflect any sums (including levies, taxes, or similar financial charges) that UCL is required to pay any governmental authority in connection with tuition fees.
International fees shown are the fees that will be charged to 2026/27 entrants.
Full details of UCL's tuition fees, tuition fee policy and potential increases to fees can be found on the UCL Students website.
Additional costs
The only extra costs above and beyond what is normally expected (e.g., computer, pens, paper) is for fieldwork. However, the Department makes substantial contributions towards these costs, covering all accommodation and in-field transportation. On this course there are compulsory field trips in Year 1 and MSci Year. For the Year 1 trip, lunch and evening meals will need to be covered by students (5 nights, ~£125). For the MSci Year trip, travel (flight/train/bus) to the field location (Ries, Germany) and lunch and evening meals will need to be covered by the students (5 nights, ~£325). If optional modules with associated field trips are chosen in Years 2 and 3, then students are expected to cover their transport costs (flight/train/bus) to and from the beginning of the field locations at an estimated cost of £200, depending on the exact location (currently Spain). Some fieldtrips include meals or are self-catered, but where they are not, the additional cost of food should be around £200 per trip. Students are expected to provide their own appropriate field clothing, such as walking boots and waterproofs.
Students on the MSci Earth Sciences course can choose from three optional fieldtrip modules and so will need to budget ~£200 each for these, if chosen. In the third year, Earth Sciences students can also choose the GEOL0024 independent mapping project (although a digital/hybrid option is available), which includes 30 days of field work. For this field work, the department provides ~£800 to each student. This should cover all or most expenses, but extra costs may be incurred depending on where the student chooses to do their mapping and type of accommodation.
For in-person teaching, UCL's main teaching locations are in zones 1 (Bloomsbury) and zones 2/3 (UCL East). The cost of a monthly 18+ Oyster travel card for zones 1–2 is £119.90. This price was published by TfL in 2026. For more information on additional costs for prospective students and the cost of living in London, please view our estimated cost of essential expenditure at UCL's cost of living guide. If you are concerned by potential additional costs for books, equipment, etc., please get in touch with the relevant departmental contact (details given on this page).
Additional costs for Earth Sciences (Palaeobiology) MSci
There are no additional costs for this study option.
Please see Earth Sciences MSci for details of additional costs for the overall course.
Various funding options are available, including student loans, scholarships and bursaries. UK students whose household income falls below a certain level may also be eligible for a non-repayable bursary or for certain scholarships. Please see the Fees and funding pages for more details.
Why study this course at UCL?
Our department delivers world-leading research embracing the origins and history of life, Earth’s composition and structure, earthquake and volcanic hazards, and past and present climate change, and these are fully integrated within our taught course.
Our department delivers world-leading teaching ranked 5th in the UK in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025: Earth and Marine Sciences, embracing the origins and history of life, Earth’s composition and structure, earthquake and volcanic hazards, and past and present climate change, and these are fully integrated within our taught course.
You will be taught by lecturers who are active researchers within their fields, ensuring everything you learn is up to date and providing you with opportunities to take part in cutting-edge research activities.
MSci students carry out a major fourth year research project within one of our research groups, with research often leading to student-led publications and conference presentations.
We are located in the Kathleen Lonsdale Building at the Bloomsbury campus, providing you with access to world-class facilities including bespoke teaching laboratories, microscope facilities and student hub spaces, all in the heart of the department, next to staff offices and our research laboratories.
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Register nowHow to apply
Application for admission should be made through UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Applicants currently at school or college will be provided with advice on the process; however, applicants who have left school or who are based outside the United Kingdom may obtain information directly from UCAS.
We normally reach a decision on making an offer on the basis of the application alone. If you have an offer and would like to visit the department in person, please email the Admissions Tutor to arrange this.
Selection
For further information on UCL's selection process see: How we assess your application.
Apply for this course
You are applying for the Earth Sciences MSci course. Please note that the study options presented as post-enrolment specialisms will be available for you to choose once your enrolment is confirmed. For application guidance please visit Application guidelines.Course starts: September 2027
UCAS applications open for 2027 entry on 12 May 2026.
Apply for Earth Sciences MSci to access this study option. Please note that you will need to meet any additional requirements for this study option to be considered.
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Earth Sciences
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