Environmental Geoscience

Learn how to decipher the Earth and determine the effects of environmental change as you tackle the most urgent issues affecting our planet.

The work of environmental geoscientists can take them across the world, as they scour the planet and investigate environmental degradation, emerging hazards, climate change and pollution.

Our Environmental Geoscience degree equips you with a deep understanding of the Earth, focusing on the workings of the surface and shallow subsurface. You'll discover how subaerial and submarine landscapes evolve over millions of years. You’ll then learn how to apply that knowledge to help solve critical problems, like Earth’s finite resources or climate change.

This programme champions practical fieldwork as a crucial part of developing your knowledge of Earth surface processes and interpreting environmental change. You’ll also develop observational and analytical skills through field trip visits.

You’ll engage with world-leading researchers with strong expertise in Earth’s physical structure and makeup. A distinctive part of our programme is our final year project, where you’ll build a 3D geo-model using real-world data and industry standard software, giving you valued skills in many sectors. Upon graduation, you'll be a skilled environmental geoscientist, ready to aid in solving the challenges facing humankind to secure our planet’s future.

Why study at Leeds

• Engage with world-leading research: Our globally-renowned research in geology, physical geography and environmental science feeds directly into your course, shaping your learning with the latest concepts.

• Learn from expert tutors: Experience expert teaching from leading specialists with extensive industry experience within environmental science.

• Access excellent facilities: Access excellent specialist facilities, including lecture theatres, seminar rooms and computer clusters fully equipped with the latest technology to support your learning.

• Put theory into practice: Undertake fieldwork activities, where you’ll advance your research skills and gain hands-on experience that’s highly valued by employers in industry.

• Broaden your prospects: Enhance your career prospects and give your CV that competitive edge with our exciting study abroad programmes and work placement opportunities.

• Engage with your peers: Join one of our societies, such as SusSoc, where you can meet like-minded people at events and socials.

Rankings and awards

• 11th in the world for Geology, QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026

• Top 10 in the UK for Geology, Complete University Guide 2026

Where this degree could take you
Graduates from our School have secured employment in a rich variety of organisations, including:

• Environment Officer, Environmental Agency

• Research Scientist, ITM Power

• Wildlife Specialist, Athens International Airport

• Senior Ecologist, British Waterways

• Senior Sustainability Consultant, DPP

• Environmental Scientist, Fugro Survey

• Senior Planner, Leeds City Council

• Environmental Compliance Advisor, Nuclear Decommissioning Authority

• Project Lead, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust

Careers support
Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years by the UK's leading employers, The Graduate Market 2026, High Fliers Research

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one.

Our Careers Service has the global expertise and sector-spanning industry partnerships that, combined, go way beyond simply helping you get a job. They provide you with the resources you need to upskill and achieve the future you aspire towards – even in the face of lightning-paced change.