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. 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.

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.