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BSc (Hons) Earth Science

University of Portsmouth, United Kingdom
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Course Overview

Earth science is critical for understanding how our planet works, and how we can use its resources responsibly to ensure a sustainable future. It underpins current efforts to move to greener energy, understand and tackle the impacts of climate change, predict and plan against natural hazards, and to build safe, sustainable and resilient cities. 

On this Earth science degree course, you'll follow one of three pathways at the end of your first year:

  • Geology

  • Engineering geology

  • Environmental geology

These pathways will provide you with the skills for a career across the diverse Earth science space, either by direct entry to the workplace or by taking one of our applied Earth science Master's degrees.

The UK government has pledged to train the next generation of miners, geologists and engineers in the UK’s new Critical Minerals Strategy (Gov.uk), and lists a number of Earth science related roles in its Tier 2 Shortage Occupation List in this field (DavidsonMorris). Roles in this sector are expected to increase given that Earth scientists will be at the forefront of the energy transition and ensuring human interaction with the natural environment and its resources is sustainable.

General Eligibility

  • A levels – ABB–BBC

  • UCAS points – 112–128 points, with 32 points from a Science subject (Applied Science, Archaeology, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science/Studies, Geography, Geology, Mathematics or Physics)

  • T levels – Merit. Acceptable T level subjects include Construction: Design, Surveying and Planning, Health, Healthcare Science, and Science

  • BTECs (Extended Diplomas) – DDM–DMM

Part Time Work Details

20 Hours of Work permit weekly for international students.

What You'll Study

1 Placement year

Optional year in industry – 120 credit module

An optional work placement year between your 2nd and 3rd years will give you valuable experience of working in industry. We’ll help you secure a work placement that fits your situation and ambitions. You’ll get mentoring and support throughout the year.

2 Year 1

Core modules:

  • Analysis of the Earth and Environment

  • Earth Materials

  • Engineering Geology and Geohazards

  • Global Environmental Challenges

  • How the Earth Works

  • Sedimentology and Palaeontology

3 Year 2

Core modules:

  • Dynamic Earth

  • GIS and Remote Sensing

  • Professional Skills and Careers

  • Structural Geology

  • Sedimentary Processes and Facies Analysis

Optional modules:

  • Hydrogeology and Fluid Flow

  • Volcanoes

4 Year 3

Core modules:

  • Earth Science Project

  • Earth Science in the Workplace

  • Mineral Resources and Exploration

Optional modules:

  • Analytical Methods for Earth and Environmental Sciences

  • Applications of Palaeontology and Sedimentology

  • Earth Evolution and Plate Tectonics

  • Geohazard Risk Management

  • Hazardscapes

  • Introduction to Teaching

  • Oceans, Climates and Environments

  • Quaternary Geology and Geomorphology

Language Requirement

The IELTS score for international applicants is 6.0 (with no less than 5.5 in each component).

Ready to get started?

For any enquiries or further details, please don't hesitate to contact us. Let's take the next step in your academic journey together.

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