Entry requirements
112 - 120 UCAS points to include a minimum of 2 A Levels with a relevant science subject: Biology, Maths/Use of Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science/Studies, Applied Science, Geography, Geology or Technology, excluding General Studies.
Considered in combination
Considered in combination
Pass a Science based Access to HE Diploma with at least 33 credits at merit in science.
Considered in combination
Considered in combination
International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
To include 4 at Higher Level Science subjects
Leaving Certificate - Higher Level (Ireland) (first awarded in 2017)
To include relevant science subjects: Biology, Maths/Use of Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science/Studies, Applied Science, Geography, Geology or Technology. English and Maths considered within
Considered in combination
Considered in combination
Considered in combination
Considered in combination
Considered in combination
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Science related subject required
Considered in combination
Considered in combination
Range from 112 to 120 UCAS points to include a minimum of 2 Advanced Highers to include a Grade C in a relevant science subject: Biology, Maths/Use of Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science/Studies, Applied Science, Geography, Geology or Technology.
Considered in combination with Advanced Highers
UCAS Tariff
112 - 120 UCAS points to include a minimum of 2 A Levels with a relevant science subject: Biology, Maths/Use of Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Environmental Science/Studies, Applied Science, Geography, Geology or Technology, excluding General Studies.
Considered in combination
Considered in combination
About this course
This course has alternative study modes. Contact the university to find out how the information below might vary.
Understand how the Earth has evolved over time, how the planet works, and develop an understanding of its possible futures. In both laboratory and the field you will establish a thorough scientific understanding of the physical forces acting on the Earth, the chemistry of its constituent materials and biology revealed by fossils. Developing your knowledge of processes and materials controlling the development of our planet, you'll be primed for work in a diverse range of geological industries.
* In the 2016 National Student Survey, 100 per cent of students felt that the staff were good at explaining things; 94 per cent felt staff made the subject interesting; 94 per cent found staff enthusiastic about teaching; 100 per cent found the course intellectually stimulating; 81 per cent felt they had sufficient support with their studies and 100 per cent were satisfied with the course overall.
* Learn from the experience and expertise of our highly qualified staff. The varied teaching practices range from seminars and tutorials to practical classes and workshops.
* Take part in the substantial fieldwork offered in a variety of UK and overseas locations. You'll become an experienced field-worker, able to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom to existing Earth science problems.
* Explore the natural geology of our rich surrounding area. Plymouth's location is of central importance to studying geology, with opportunities for fieldwork right on our doorstep.
* Work towards becoming a Chartered Geologist, our accreditation by the Geological Society helps you to gain the required experience.
Modules
Laying the foundations of geological knowledge, your first year provides you with an introduction to laboratory and field skills. You'll learn about key Earth processes including plate tectonics, and take a practical approach to the study of minerals, rocks, fossils and geological structures. Our tutorials will help you gain effective study techniques and computing skills and you'll develop your confidence with a personal tutor, providing you with weekly guidance throughout your first year. You'll also undertake fieldwork, including residential classes, across the South West.
Year 2 consolidates the knowledge and skills developed in year one, with an emphasis on the practical side of geology. You'll develop observational, analytical and interpretive skills and the ability to use them to answer fundamental geological questions. You'll also learn to make geological maps and develop new field skills which will be used in fieldwork you undertake in both the UK and in Spain. You’ll also have the opportunity to spend your second year studying abroad in Canada, Australia, USA or elsewhere through our direct exchange, Erasmus or ISEP programmes.
Your third year gives you the opportunity to develop specialised geological knowledge and skills through selecting optional modules from your specialist degree route. Optional modules include palaeontology, sedimentology, tectonics, volcanology and Geographical Information Systems (GIS). You may also undertake advanced fieldwork and will complete an independent field-based mapping and research project, which will develop your professional skills. Our optional field courses visit exciting locations such as Sicily and Cyprus.
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Assessment methods
32% of assessment is by exam, 49% by coursework and 19% practical assessment
Tuition fees
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The Uni
University of Plymouth
School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences
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See your living costsWhat students say
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Earth sciences
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Most popular A-Levels studied (and grade achieved)
After graduation
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Earth sciences
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This is what graduates told us they were doing (and earning), shortly after completing their course. We've crunched the numbers to show you if these immediate prospects are high, medium or low, compared to those studying this subject/s at other universities.
Top job areas of graduates
What do graduate employment figures really tell you?The market for geologists is has been quite linked to the oil industry for some time now, and the drop in the price of oil has meant the industry has stopped recruiting as many people for the time being. Geologists are still in demand, though, so the main effect has been to reduce the opportunities - and salaries - for geologists working abroad. At home, the oil industry remains a big employer, and so are the mining, civil engineering, construction and consultancy industries, with geology graduates working as geologists, geophysicists, civil engineers and environmental professionals.
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