Earth and Environmental Science (Placement Year)

Earth scientists are essential to tackling the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. From geological hazards to resource provision and climate change, they research current issues to uncover future solutions. By choosing to do a degree in Earth and environmental science, you will embark on an exciting and vital exploration of the natural environment, with opportunities to see first-hand the real-world impacts of environmental hazards and the strategies developed as a response. When you graduate, you will enter a global job market where environmentally focused professionals are highly sought after.

What to expect

Our four-year BSc Hons Earth and Environmental Science (Placement Year) degree begins by building your understanding of geology, the Earth’s interior and the atmosphere, weather and climate systems.

In Year 2, you will build on these themes, exploring specific topics such as geological field skills, soil science, and glacial systems.

In Year 4, you will have a choice of topics and will apply your knowledge to a dissertation project. This will be an opportunity to research a topic of interest through fieldwork, laboratory-based research, or computer modelling.

Getting out in the field

Alongside your classroom and lab-based studies, you will gain hands-on experience conducting research in real-world environments on a local, regional, and global scale. You may take part in overseas field courses to study volcanic processes and impact management, glacial processes, or the management of environmental challenges. On top of that, you will engage in fieldwork closer to home in the Lake District World Heritage Site and Yorkshire Dales.

Your placement

In Year 3, you will undertake a placement that will enable you to apply the knowledge and skills learnt so far and gain invaluable experience that will then inform your studies in Year 4 and your career beyond.

Although it’s up to you to find your placement, we will support you all the way. Our Careers Service will provide guidance on CVs, applications, interview techniques and creating a digital profile.

Personal development

Throughout your degree, you will gain a variety of transferable skills that are valued by employers, including communication and information technology skills, data handling, environmental sampling, and analysis. With a year’s experience added to your CV, you will be a standout graduate.

3 things our Earth and Environmental Science students want you to know:

• There’s no better way to understand Earth and environmental science than by learning on location and there are plenty of opportunities to do this! You will take a hands-on approach to studying the environment, tackling real challenges and the impact that creating a solution could have

• Lancaster’s Earth science staff specialise in volcanology, geophysics, hydrogeology, and glaciology. There’s always someone to ask about your specific interest! You will also be assigned an academic tutor who will be your first point of contact for support on your course

• The theme of sustainability is woven throughout the degree and life on campus. Many students are part of LUSU Green, a group run by the Students’ Union that is driving change across the campus and beyond to create a thriving natural environment, reduce carbon emissions, and train the sustainability leaders of the future