Environmental Geoscience

Explore how Earth's natural processes and human activities converge to shape today's environments, and why interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for building a sustainable future.

Top lab facilities
Hone your microscopy skills in one of Europe’s leading 5G connected microscopy teaching laboratories.

Exciting field work
Discover the outstanding geology of the Southwest through field trips that provide exciting hands-on experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to study overseas – exploring sites from the ruins of Pompeii to the landscapes of Death Valley.

Career focus
Boost your career prospects though our extensive geo-careers fair, industry placements, and study abroad.

This course is for you if...

• you want to discover the tools to tackle our pressing global challenges

• you enjoy hands-on experience in the outdoors or the laboratory

• you are looking for a friendly and supportive teaching environment with hands-on career support

• you thrive in real-world, non-exam-based assessments.

Course Modules

Year 1
From day one you’ll dive into the world of Earth Sciences, laying the foundations of geological and environmental knowledge that will set you up for success throughout your university journey. Your first year will equip you with essential Earth Science skills and core knowledge, empowering you to tackle sustainable development challenges alongside developing an understanding of topics such as plate tectonics, climate change, and the challenges faced by modern environments and biodiversity. Hands-on learning will be a key part of your experience, as you study minerals, rocks, fossils, and geological structures in our cutting-edge 5G microscope laboratories. Plus, get ready for exciting fieldwork in the stunning landscapes of the UK’s Southwest and Southern Italy, where you'll explore the real-world impact of geohazards.

Year 2
Year 2 takes you on a journey from the Earth’s surface to its core, exploring key environmental issues and their possible solutions. You'll sharpen your observational, analytical and interpretive skills, using them to tackle some of the most exciting geological and most important environmental questions. You'll also gain hands-on experience with field techniques, including geophysical equipment. For those looking to broaden their horizon even further, you can seize the opportunity to study your second year abroad in incredible locations like Canada, USA or Europe.

Optional placement year
Take advantage of our optional placement year, giving you the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills in the workplace gaining valuable experience. Find your perfect placement with the help of our employability service and benefit from specialist workshops and tutorials in your second year, helping you prepare for your year in industry.

Final year
In your third year you will elevate your data analysis skills to a professional level. Your dissertation project will be an exciting opportunity to collect and analyse data independently, whether in the field or the lab. Alongside core modules that deepen your professional geological expertise, you’ll have the chance to choose from a range of sustainability-focused optional modules from environmental science and geology, allowing you to tailor your final year to your passions and interests. For those craving adventure, you can take your learning beyond the classroom with advanced fieldwork opportunities in incredible locations like Namibia or Death Valley, USA, where you’ll gain invaluable hands-on experience and refine your professional field skills.

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

• The Geological Society