Course summary

This degree gives you masters-level expertise in geological resources, and you will undertake an independent research project on a topic that interests you. It has never been more important to find geoscience solutions to resource challenges, and you can be part of it. Whether you study for the BSc or the MGeol, your Applied and Environmental Geology degree will prepare you to meet the fundamental challenges of locating and managing Earth resources, whilst minimising the environmental impact of extraction. You will study how geoscience affects human activities within the ever-changing needs and challenges of a growing world population, and will learn how to apply your geological knowledge and skills to industrial and environmental systems, making you a highly employable geoscience graduate. The first-year modules will lay the foundations, with topics spanning the breadth of the geosciences, and a field-trip to the beautiful Isle of Arran in Scotland. Also, by choosing the Applied and Environmental Geology degree when you apply, you will be assigned to a personal tutor who is a specialist in the field. In the second year, you will develop your skills and understanding across the geosciences, and start to specialise through a module on mineral deposits. In the third year, you will develop specialist expertise through a dissertation on a relevant topic of interest to you, alongside an environmental geoscience module and a bespoke field trip to Cornwall. You can also opt to take modules in applied subjects including mineral deposits and water quality and management, and therefore tailor the degree to your interests and career aspirations. We embed industry-standard skills and practices in our modules to help you build your confidence for the workplace and fully realise your potential. Each year of the degree includes different field work opportunities including trips to Scotland, Spain and Wales where you will be able to apply all that you have learned here on campus. BSc or MGeol: what's the difference? Apply for a BSc degree if you want an ideal three-year route to becoming a professional geologist or you’re looking to pursue further geological studies through a specialist MSc course. Apply for a four-year MGeol degree if you are looking to fast-track your professional geological employment or to continue on to PhD research after graduation. MGeol courses include a major cutting-edge independent research project on a topic chosen by you, giving you the opportunity to work with specialist analytical facilities, learn the skills required to succeed in a research environment and potentially see your work published in a peer-reviewed journal. It is possible to transfer between the BSc and the MGeol up to the end of Year 2.