Geophysical and Atmospheric Sciences

Gain the skills to tackle the dangers threatening the Earth and our way of life.

Our planet faces many pressing challenges. With a growing population, more and more people are affected by natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and extreme weather. The weather in space is also increasingly impacting the technologies we rely on as a society.

The climate emergency calls for sustainable exploration and the use of Earth’s resources, such as freshwater and minerals, to develop sustainable technologies to combat these threats.

On this course, you’ll develop your expertise in Earth physics, including ocean and atmospheric physics and the processes that shape planetary layers. You’ll apply this knowledge to find solutions to complex environmental challenges in areas like climate change, energy transition and hazard mitigation.

You’ll be trained in data analysis, quantitative modelling and computer programming – skills vital to tackling real-world environmental issues. And to further develop your expertise, you’ll engage in hands-on learning with a range of field trips.

As we move towards a greener, more sustainable future, it’s the skills and expertise you’ll learn on this course that will prove invaluable to many industries and governments worldwide. And you’ll be able to help turn the tide of climate change.

"I decided to study at Leeds because I visited the University in Year 12 and completely fell in love with the University, and the School of Earth and Environment."

Hazel Mooney, Environmental Science BSc

Why study at Leeds

• Engage with world-leading research: Our globally-renowned research, which tackles complex global challenges such as climate change, energy security and natural hazard management, feeds directly into your course and shapes your learning with the latest thinking.

• Learn from expert tutors: Experience quality teaching delivered by leading specialists with extensive industry experience from across the breadth of this field.

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

• Access excellent facilities: Access specialist facilities, featuring extensive lab spaces, including our Earth visualisation lab, and computer clusters fully equipped with the latest technology.

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

• Engage with your peers: Join one of our societies, such as RocSoc or SusSoc, where you can meet like-minded people during activities and social events.

Rankings and awards

• 12th in the world for Geophysics, QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026

• Top 100 in the world, QS World University Rankings 2026

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

• Senior Building Physics Engineer, CGP MEP

• Sustainability Project Manager, M&S

• Environmental Researcher & Videographer, Chief Productions

• Exploration Geologist, AngloGold Ashanti

• Graduate Engineering Geologist, Jacobs

• Director, RS Environmental

• COP 26 Events Coordinator, Stop Climate Chaos Scotland

• Petrophysicist, Equinor

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.

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

• The Geological Society