Environmental Geoscience BSc

Course overview

The surface of planet Earth is highly dynamic, with abrupt changes in environmental conditions driven by the complicated interplay of physical, biological, chemical, and geological processes. Specialist skills and knowledge are urgently required to document and interpret the records of environmental change, meaning that environmental geoscientists are at the forefront of tackling many of the urgent issues arising from society’s interactions with the Earth’s surface and shallow subsurface.

Our Environmental Geoscience degree will equip you with a deep understanding of the Earth system, with a focus on surface and shallow subsurface process interactions. From this, you'll gain deep time perspectives on how subaerial and submarine landscapes evolve. By applying that knowledge to Earth resources, or mitigating climate change, you’ll learn how to help solve critical societal problems.

At Leeds, we continue to place fieldwork as an integral part of developing your knowledge of Earth surface processes and understanding of records of environmental change. Throughout your course, you’ll build observational and analytical skills through visits to classic field locations.

Distinctively, we have a large group of world-leading researchers who work at the interface of geological and geomorphological disciplines. Your final year project will be building 3D geo-models using real-world datasets to provide you with the unique independence and experience that means, upon graduation, you'll be a skilled environmental geoscientist ready to help solve the key challenges that face humankind and secure the future of our planet.

Why study at Leeds:

• Our globally-renowned research in geology, physical geography and environmental science feeds directly into your course, shaping your learning with the latest concepts and providing you with industry-relevant skills for a range of sectors.
• Experience expert teaching delivered by a programme team made up of leading specialists with extensive industry experience from across the breadth of environmental science disciplines and employment sectors.
• Put theory into practice by undertaking fieldwork activities, where you’ll advance your research skills and gain hands-on experience highly valued by employers in industry.
• Access specialist facilities, including lecture theatres, seminar rooms and computer clusters fully equipped with the latest technology to support your learning.
• Enhance your career prospects and give your CV that competitive edge before you graduate with our exciting study abroad programmes and work placement opportunities.
• Join one of our societies, such as ROCSOC and SusSoc, where you can meet like-minded people at events such as comedy and film nights, trips and at sports activities. Being elected as a member of the committee is also a great opportunity to develop your management and leadership skills.

Course details

Specialist skills and expertise are urgently required to document and interpret records of environmental change, and to tackle many of the pertinent issues arising from society’s interactions with the Earth’s surface and shallow subsurface. Our Environmental Geoscience BSc degree is designed to face these challenges, and covers a breadth of topics spanning geology, physical geography and environmental science. By the end of the second year, you will have a solid foundation of knowledge across these topics. In your final year, you’ll undertake a geoscience dissertation that typically centres around building a 3D geological model that integrates surficial and subsurface data, which brings together your classroom learning and field techniques, and equips you with skills needed in a range of industrial sectors. You’ll also study optional modules that allow you to tailor your degree to your interests, and to focus on particular aspects of the environmental geosciences, such as the energy transition, ground water, and engineering geology.

Fieldwork will be integral to your course, with a fieldwork programme designed specifically for the Environmental Geoscience degree programme, with opportunities to explore many different environmental and geological settings and systems first-hand.

Please note: field trip destinations specified below are typical examples but may be subject to change.

Each academic year, you'll take a total of 120 credits.

The course structure shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Year 1

First year builds a solid foundation of geoscience knowledge and skills, introducing the Earth as a geologically active habitable planet. You’ll develop an understanding of the large-scale tectonic and surface processes, such as magmatism, glacial cycles, and mountain building that shape the Earth’s surface and interior.

We’ll look in detail at what the Earth is made of and the cycle of geological activity that creates and erodes the rocks that form the Earth’s crust. We will also explore the environmental and biological history of the Earth, examining the evidence for the emergence and development of life and the evolution of the surface environment. Additionally, we will focus on the role of professional geoscientists in contemporary society, exploring the many ways that geoscientific knowledge underpins much of the infrastructure on which society depends.

The course has a strong practical focus, which allows you to get hands-on with specimens in the lab and to study Earth materials in the field, reinforcing learning from lectures and giving that wider perspective that is unique to the geosciences. Alongside core modules, you’ll develop transferable skills, such as collecting, recording and interpreting scientific data, and professional reporting both through written work and training in the use of professional tools such as Geographic Information System (GIS) software. Teamwork is an area where geoscience graduates really excel, a skill from both classroom activities and field working. This first year of the degree is shared with the Geology BSc degree, giving you flexibility in choice between the programmes.

Compulsory modules

Solid Planet – 20 credits

The ability to identity and characterise the rocks, minerals, and sedimentary deposits that form the Earth are fundamental skills for any professional geoscientist. In this module, you'll develop the core skills of describing and identifying key Earth materials at a range of spatial scales, from the macro-scale structures seen in rock outcrops to the micro-scale features visible under the microscope. During practical work in the laboratory, you'll be taught how to recognise common igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rock types, and the key features that provide evidence for their origins in different environments. You'll also gain an understanding of the formation and large-scale structure of the Earth and the important role that plate tectonics plays in shaping its surface and forming different types of rocks.

Earth Surface Processes – 20 credits

Sedimentary successions provide a crucial archive of environmental change at our planet’s surface, which is highly dynamic in time and space. This module will introduce how sediment is produced, transported, and deposited in a range of environments, and how the interplay of surface processes has sculpted Earth’s landscapes and seascapes through time. Topics covered include sediment production by weathering and biochemical or chemical precipitation; the role of icehouse and greenhouse periods on changing sea-level and coastlines; the origin of landforms and landscapes (geomorphology); and the transport and deposition processes of sediment in a wide range of Earth surface environments.

Dynamic Planet – 20 credits

The Earth’s surface is constantly being reshaped by tectonic and environmental processes. This history of global change is recorded in the complex layers of rocks that form the Earth’s continental crust. In this module, you'll learn how geological observations are used to reconstruct the tectonic and environmental history of our planet. You'll learn the fundamental concepts and techniques used by geoscientists to study the Earth in 4D (space and time) and decipher the history of the construction and destruction of continental landmasses by plate tectonics. A key outcome of this module is building skills in the interpretation and analysis of geological structures, such as faults and folds, using data from both geological maps and your own field observations. You will get a chance to apply and develop these skills during a week-long residential field course held in the beautiful Pembrokeshire peninsula in South Wales.

Living Planet – 20 credits

Earth is the only planet we know of that is habitable to life and the presence of a diverse and complex biosphere is a fundamental aspect of our planet’s geological character. This module will explore the origin and evolution of life as well as the role contemporary human society plays in the natural environment. The fossil record provides insights into the history of Earth’s biota, from the emergence of new species to mass extinction events. As it has developed our planet’s biosphere has also profoundly shaped our planet’s surface environment and the trajectory of life itself. In more recent times, humans have altered the natural world in more varied and complex ways than any other previous species. Geoscientists play a key part in mediating these interactions with the natural world, particularly in obtaining the natural resources that underpin modern societies and economies and understanding the environmental consequences of their exploitation.

Skills for Geoscientists – 20 credits

The abilities to communicate ideas, collect geospatial data, and think quantitatively are essential skills for any geoscientist. This module combines tutorial-based learning of communication skills with training in field skills and quantitative reasoning. Written assignments will be based on a series of seminars held in the first week of the academic year covering exciting topics in the geosciences. During field classes in the Yorkshire Dales you will learn essential skills in safety and navigation and how to conduct a field-based geoscience investigation.

Optional modules

You’ll choose from the following optional modules. Or you may choose to combine optional modules with discovery modules.

Discovery modules give you the chance to expand your learning, broadening your knowledge and giving you that competitive edge in the jobs market.

Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options.

• Natural Hazards – 10 credits
• Vertebrate Evolution – 10 credits
• Foundation Chemistry – 10 credits
• Foundation Mathematics – 10 credits
• Foundation Physics – 10 credits
• Atmosphere – 10 credits
• Advanced Mathematics 2 – 10 credits

Year 2

In the second year, ,you’ll develop your skills and understanding in the surface and shallow subsurface record of processes, and their records, and how environmental geoscience use that understanding in professional contexts, such as ground models and remediation projects.

Fieldwork is tailored to Environmental Sciences students in year 2, with a focus on studying soils and sedimentary rocks, and developing three-dimensional thinking. In parallel, you’ll build a range of professional and transferable skills, including academic writing, presentation, experimental design, environmental statistics and coding skills.

The overall aim is to equip you with a breadth of practical and technical skills and field experiences to be ready to tackle the independent dissertation project in year 3.

Compulsory modules

Palaeoenvironmental Analysis – 20 credits

Explore the use of sedimentological, geochemical and palaeontological principles in the analysis of sedimentary environments and the evolutionary history of life. You'll develop knowledge, skills and understanding of how complex sedimentary successions arise in response to a range of both intrinsic processes and external controls such as sea-level and climatic change, and tectonic basin development. The module will include a critical examination of recent and ongoing research into the dynamics of sedimentary processes, their recognition in the ancient rock record, and their environmental application.

Additionally, this module also covers the nature of the carbon sink in the deep ocean and the use of the fossil record to assess the impact of global scale geohazards, such as asteroid impacts and volcanic events. A residential field class on the Isle of Man brings together the lecture and practical material and allows you to develop skills in sedimentary logging, sedimentary architectural analysis, relating complex 3D and 4D relationships in space and time, and distinguishing between intrinsic versus external controls on the sedimentary record, including Quaternary glacial records.

Investigating the shallow subsurface – 20 credits

Learn fundamental concepts, models and principles related to processes in the shallow subsurface and the use of geological and geophysical knowledge and data to investigate them. The material covered is relevant to a large variety of career paths for geoscientists. The taught component of the module will contain a mix of engineering geology, soil science, hydrology and shallow surface geophysics, covering both theory and practice. Throughout the module, a topical case study/studies will link the different aspects of the syllabus and inform on how a geologist can apply their fundamental knowledge to become involved in the energy, hydrogeology, environmental geology and geotechnical and civil engineering sectors.

Contaminated Environments – 20 credits

This module explores the complex nature of land and water contamination through a series of lectures covering a wide range of contaminated environments. We will cover the methods used to monitor and assess levels of contamination, the legal and institutional frameworks used to manage contamination, and the technology and strategies used for remediation. During the latter half of the module, you’ll simulate the workflow of a professional environmental consultant conducting an investigation of a site identified as potentially suitable for residential development. You'll be shown where there are useful sources of information and how to use them. A video of the site shows how a walk-over site assessment is carried out and small group meetings are used to provide guidance in writing a Desk Study Report for the client. The module is taught through a series of lectures, tutorials and short student presentations.

Geomorphology and Tectonics – 20 credits

The aim of this module is to explore the origin and characteristics of deformation on Earth’s surface, and the interplay between tectonic and surface processes that shape landscapes in regions of active deformation. Geomorphology combines aspects of geology and geography to understand the origin, evolution, and processes that shape landforms. Here, a particular emphasis is on tectonic geomorphology, which is the application of geomorphological principals to study of landform assemblages and landscape evolution in areas and regions affected by fault-related tectonic activity (i.e., contemporary motions and deformations of Earth's crust). You’ll be exposed to InSar satellite data of earthquake-related deformation from recent events to inform responders on seismic hazards and responses.

Sedimentary Basins and Resources - 10 credits

Sedimentary basin-fills archive the entire fossil and palaeoenvironmental record of the planet. This module will provide skills and training in (i) the main methods and techniques used to investigate sedimentary basins, (ii) developing an understanding of the tectonic and structural evolution of such basins, (iii) acquiring knowledge of the mechanisms of infilling of basins by sedimentary successions, and (iv) gaining an awareness of how the geological accumulations within such basins serve to provide important geo-energy resources.

GIS for Geoscientists – 10 credits

Increasingly, earth observation data from drones and satellites are a critical part of a geoscientist’s toolkit. This module will provide an applied introduction to using GIS and remote sensing in earth and environmental geosciences. The module will introduce the theory and hands-on experience of GIS and remote sensing as well as an introduction to a range of methods for collection, management and interpretation of spatial earth science data. You’ll use leading commercial and/or open-source software in their practical classes, as well as gain basic experience in collecting example remote sensing datasets and apply your knowledge to solve real-world problems in earth, environment and climate science.

Year 3

You'll take more specialised modules in Year 3 that focus on topics such as the role of geoscientists in the energy transition and the record of environmental change over the last million years. The optional modules in your final year are where you can develop your specialisms further. There is also a flagship 3D geo-model build project integrating field data and real subsurface datasets from offshore windfarms, contaminated land sites, large infrastructure projects and geothermal sites.

Compulsory modules

3D Geo-models: Independent project – 40 credits

This distinctive module is a hands-on experience that allows you to apply your knowledge gained to investigate a real-world problem through a major independent project to construct 3D geo-model, albeit working as part of a team during the collection and management of the dataset. Each group will be provided a dataset of surface environmental geoscience data and will need to collect additional field data to build their own 3D geo-model. These datasets will be using real-world information, for example from contaminated land sites or offshore windfarms sites. You are expected to plan, design, and execute the project, demonstrating your ability to work in a team, and manage time and resources effectively, but write up an independent dissertation. This approach allows you to focus on aspects of site investigation to provide you with crucial experience in tackling modern global challenges across all sectors of the economy in areas like civil engineering, natural hazard mitigation, energy security and research.

Geothermal Energy: Engineering, Societal and Governance Challenges – 10 credits

Geothermal Energy offers the potential not only for clean, sustainable energy globally but also for also cooling and long-term energy storage. For achieving both UK and global net zero targets, geothermal energy presents a growing industry expected to develop at a fast rate over the coming decade to support the essential global transition to clean, place-based energy both in the UK and internationally. This module aims to explore the necessarily inter-disciplinary approach needed from across geoscience, engineering, social science and environmental science to accommodate the rapid and proactive change key for a successful energy transition. We will explore how interdisciplinary collaboration drives forward geothermal energy use for the future, the challenges we face in developing geothermal systems and how these fits into achieving long term, clean energy for all. The University’s on campus Living Lab for geothermal research will form an integral part of the module providing live data and cutting-edge interdisciplinary research. Whilst there are no pre-requisite qualifications or experience, the module will use digital tools and scientific techniques to enhance student experience and support learning.

The Last Million Years – 20 credits

The maxim that ‘the present is the key to the past’ might be better phrased that ‘the Quaternary is the key to the future’, because the Earth system of the last few million years is so unusual. That the surface and substrate that society uses for installations and infrastructure is commonly Quaternary aged means that Environmental Geoscientists require advanced understanding of the earth surface interactions over the last million years. In particular, the record of linkages between ice sheet advance and retreat, isostatic responses and the impact of relative sea-level change on landscapes will be explored in detail. Thus, the module will improve your understanding of earth system responses to past, present and future changes in climate. A field class to Norfolk, where there is an exceptional record of Quaternary environmental change preserved, is embedded in this module.

Engineering Geology – 10 credits

Engineering Geology is the largest employment field for professional geoscientists and is a subject that bridges the fields of geology, engineering, geomorphology, structural geology, geophysics, geomechanics and geochemistry. The module considers all the above, but the most important role of an engineering geologist is identifying potential hazards and adverse geological conditions through the studying of landforms and ground processes. You’ll learn the role of an engineering geologist through both taught material and practical exercises and understand their importance in mitigating the potential hazards of ground-structure interaction.

Environmental geomorphology and sedimentology – 10 credits

The rapidly expanding field of environmental geomorphology and sedimentology will be addressed in this module. You’ll also explore the functioning and dynamics of contemporary landscape and sediment systems and question how these systems respond to a range of both natural and anthropogenically-induced perturbations. The module also covers research-led topics on how sedimentological and stratigraphic principles are key to contemporary societal issues, such as microplastic pollution and carbon storage.

Groundwater – 10 credits

This module provides a broad outline of groundwater studies within geoscience and environmental science. It includes both physical hydrogeology, which deals with the amount of groundwater resources available, and chemical hydrogeology, which deals with the chemistry of natural groundwater and groundwater contaminants. The physical hydrogeology component focusses on assessment of sustainable yields (water balance), characterisation of aquifers using field and laboratory approaches, prediction of flow directions and quantities, seasonal responses, groundwater abstraction approaches and the assessment of intrinsic pollution vulnerability. Chemical hydrogeology elements include routine groundwater analyses and error assessment, the origin of natural ions in groundwater (mineral dissolution, etc) including for brine mining, characteristics and behaviour of key groundwater contaminant groups.

Optional modules

You’ll choose from the following optional modules.

Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options.

Past Global Environmental Systems – 10 credits

Earth’s surface environments have changed drastically with time and have both directly influenced – and been influenced by – biological evolution. This module will explore a range of approaches to generate information about past environments, before examining a series of case studies across the broad span of Earth history. This will enable you to understand the interacting factors that have controlled the Earth's climate and other environmental variables, both at times of crisis and during background states that were fundamentally different to today. The module will also include some direct experience of running an Earth system model and interpreting the results in the light of other evidence.

Environmental Risk: Science, Policy, and Management – 10 credits

The aim of this module is to provide a holistic understanding of the links between environmental risk, management and communication, and how these three components have effects on environmental policy and decision-making to aid sustainable development. The objectives are to provide you with the basic concepts of the definitions of risk, risk calculation and risk assessment approaches and methods, risk perceptions, the contemporary environmental risk management strategies, and the role and technique of risk communication in decision making.

Strategic Energy Issues – 10 credits

Explore a series of current topics regarding the development of energy resources, weighing up information and opinions from a variety of sources. You’ll be expected to prepare reports and make seminar presentations on a series of topics, drawing on your academic background. A key feature of this module is working together in groups from different degree programmes to prepare a multidisciplinary seminar.

Earth Observation from Space– 10 credits

Remote sensing of the Earth's environment from space has revolutionised the ways in which we measure and perceive our planet. Earth observation data is central to many exciting areas of scientific research and to operational monitoring. This module will give you an understanding of the basic principles of how radiation is emitted, transmitted and absorbed in the Earth's atmosphere. You will be familiar with the main techniques by which space-borne satellites can observe the chemical composition and properties of the Earth's atmosphere and surface. The module will then discuss how remote sensing has been applied to study environmental phenomena such as El Nino, the retreat of ice caps, the Antarctic ozone hole and natural hazards.

Earth System Science: Biogeochemical Cycles – 10 credits

Earth system science aims to understand the Earth as whole system, comprising the environment and life, including the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere. Within the Earth system biogeochemical cycles describe how elements move through the Earth system. It is important to understand this because elements like carbon are the building blocks of life, while other elements like nutrients, are essential for life. Their cycling has therefore shaped the development of the Earth system over Earth history and will be critical to maintaining and sustaining a habitable planet into the future. This module introduces the key underpinning concepts of biogeochemical cycles, and then looks at how the major biogeochemical cycles work and how they can be used to understand the Earth system. The module will cover the carbon cycle and some of the nutrient cycles, and show how these elements move through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere and biosphere. The module will explore how biogeochemical cycles are driven by and impact on life, and how feedbacks within and between biogeochemical cycles affect the Earth system. The module includes scenario testing to explore how changes to biogeochemical cycles impact the Earth system and vice versa, how changes to the Earth system impact biogeochemical cycles.

Fieldwork

Ask any of our students and they will tell you that taking part in fieldwork is one of the most enjoyable and memorable aspects of the course. We offer a range of increasingly sustainable fieldwork opportunities, giving you the chance to study a fascinating subject in contrasting environments away from the University.

Fieldwork is integrated with lectures and module coursework, giving you the opportunity to:

• Practice the skills you have learnt in class in real-world situations.
• Gain first-hand experience of collecting and analysing environmental data.
• Build valuable individual and team research skills – vital for your final year research project.
• Develop professional skills sought after by employers like project planning, communication and teamwork.
• Get to know your lecturers and fellow students even better.
• Our field trips are designed to be as environmentally sustainable as possible and balance their carbon footprint with the learning outcomes of the trip.

Our field trips are designed to be as environmentally sustainable as possible and balance their carbon footprint with the learning outcomes of the trip.

One-year optional work placement or study abroad

During your course, you’ll be given the opportunity to advance your skill set and experience further. You can apply to either undertake a one-year work placement or study abroad for a year, choosing from a selection of universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.

Summer internships

As a student in our Faculty, you’ll have the unique opportunity to do a paid summer internship. It’s your chance to get involved in the real-world research projects happening in and around the University – and advance your own professional skills in research and experimentation.

Want to find out more? Check out what our recent students got up to on their summer internships.

Learning and teaching

Most modules link lectures with practical classes, workshops, or seminars, depending on the subject. These are enhanced with skill-focused classes, field trips and small group academic tutorials. You can expect to study in a variety of settings, from large lecture theatres to computer clusters, seminar rooms, tutorials, laboratories and out in the field. Our School is in the centre of the campus and provides an ideal working environment, offering quiet study areas when you are not in class.

We offer research-led teaching across the breadth of our disciplines, from specialists in their field. As Leeds is a research-intensive Russell Group University, you’ll be studying amongst staff who are actively participating in impactful research and who'll incorporate this expertise into their teaching.

You'll have a designated personal tutor throughout your studies at Leeds, who will be an academic member of staff. You'll have regular small-group tutorials throughout your first two years as well as one-to-one meetings twice per semester. In addition, our excellent student support team is based close to where you’ll work and study to help with anything from academic advice to timetabling and project submission enquiries. You'll also receive support from fellow students through our peer mentoring scheme.

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

We use both exams and group and individual coursework, but with a general progression from exams in year 1 towards an emphasis on coursework in your final year.

To support you as you navigate assessment, we provide formative as well as summative assessment. Formative assessment gives staff an opportunity to give you feedback on personal progress, in good time before a summative deadline. Given the range of assessment types in any one level of study, formative assessment and feedback enables you to reflect upon your personal progress and establish which forms of assessment allow you to play to your strengths.

Additionally, the programme places emphasis on the development of teamwork skills, as they are becoming increasingly important in today's workplaces. Thus, group work opportunities are an integral part of the programme.

In your final year, the programme features a research project, which emphasises open-ended investigations and includes building a 3D geo-model, and a written dissertation and a group-based verbal presentations. The remaining modules will utilise a variety of assessment methods, including written exams, reports, and presentations.

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB including two from: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Further Mathematics, Geography, Geology, Marine Science; Mathematics, Physics, Statistics.

Where an A-Level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.

GCSE: English Language and Mathematics at grade 4 (C) or higher, or an equivalent English language and Mathematics qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English instead of GCSE English.

Extended Project Qualification, International Project Qualification and Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate: Grade A plus BBB at A-level including two of the required subjects.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: BBC including two of the required subjects plus a pass in the Access to Leeds scheme.

For alternative qualification offers please contact the admissions team.

Foundation years

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a Foundation Year. A Foundation Year is the first year of an extended degree. We’ve designed these courses for applicants whose backgrounds mean they are less likely to attend university and who don’t meet the typical entry requirements for an undergraduate degree.

We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without science and mathematics qualifications.

You could also study our Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc which is for applicants whose background is less represented at university.

On successful completion of your Foundation Year, you'll be able to progress onto your chosen course.

Alternative Entry Scheme for Mature Students

If you are a mature applicant and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and Math qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Further information on the support available for mature students can be found at https://www.leeds.ac.uk/mature-students.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
The fee for UK undergraduate students is decided by the Government and may vary if policy changes. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 will be £9,535.

The tuition fee for the following programmes with an integrated foundation year is £5,760 for the foundation year, and £9,535 for subsequent years of study:
•    Business Studies with Foundation Year BSC
•    Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year BA
•    Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA
•    Social Science (foundation year) BA
 

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2025/26 are available on individual course pages.
 

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

Additional cost information

Standard travel and accommodation costs associated with compulsory field trips are covered by the University. However, you must pay for some subsistence, incidental or personal expenses such as suitable clothing, footwear and any related visa costs associated with overseas travel.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Faculty of Environment Undergraduate Bursary

UK students eligible for a reduced grade contextual offer will receive a cash bursary worth £1,000 to help with some of the costs of being at university.

International Undergraduate Excellence Scholarships

These scholarships are awarded to high achieving and particularly deserving international students. There are limited scholarships available.

Applying

Apply to this course and check the deadline for applications through the UCAS website.

We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Admissions guidance

Read our admissions guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

What happens after you’ve applied

You can keep up to date with the progress of your application through UCAS.

UCAS will notify you when we make a decision on your application. If you receive an offer, you can inform us of your decision to accept or decline your place through UCAS.

How long will it take to receive a decision

We typically receive a high number of applications to our courses. For applications submitted by the January UCAS deadline, UCAS asks universities to make decisions by mid-May at the latest.

Offer holder events

If you receive an offer from us, you’ll be invited to an offer holder event. This event is more in-depth than an open day. It gives you the chance to learn more about your course and get your questions answered by academic staff and students. Plus, you can explore our campus, facilities and accommodation.

International applicants

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students.

We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Read about visas, immigration and other information here.

If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

School of Earth and Environment

Contact us

School of Earth and Environment Undergraduate Admissions

Email: admissions@see.leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

Our Environmental Geoscience programme will provide high-quality training in areas that are considered vital to the UK and global economies, such as infrastructure projects and their resilience to geohazards and aligns with several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Several sub-disciplines are included on the ‘skills shortage lists’ published by governments in the UK and elsewhere, which means that graduate-level environmental geoscientists are in high demand. This means, in the coming decades, our Environmental Geoscience graduates will play a pivotal role in addressing various environmental challenges such as protecting and improving key natural resources (e.g., soils and groundwater), ensuring resilience from natural and environmental hazards, and establishing the infrastructure required for renewable energy to aid the transition towards a zero-carbon economy.

Plus, University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2024, High Fliers Research, meaning our graduates are highly sought after by some of the most reputable companies in the field.

Read our alumni profiles to find out more about where students from our School are now working.

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one — that’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers. The University's Careers Service is one of the largest in the country, providing a wide range of resources to ensure you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Dedicated Employability Officer — gain quality advice, guidance and information to help you choose a career path. From CV and cover letter writing to supporting you with job applications, our School’s dedicated Employability Officer is on hand to help maximise your capabilities through a process of personal development and career planning.
• Employability and networking events — we run a full range of events, including careers fairs and industry talks in specialist areas and across broader industries, with employers who are actively recruiting for roles, giving you the opportunity to network and engage with industry sponsors. 
• Employability skills training – to support your transition to the workplace, we embed training in a range of key transferable skills valued by employers such as research and data analysis in all our programmes.
• MyCareer system — on your course and after you graduate you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
• Opportunities at Leeds — there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

You'll also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.

From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, we have many University partners worldwide you can apply to, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.

This programme offers you the option to spend time abroad as an extra academic year and will extend your studies by 12 months.

Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you'll be awarded the ‘international’ variant in your degree title which demonstrates your added experience to future employers.

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

Work placements

A placement year is a great way to help you decide on a career path when you graduate. You’ll develop your skills and gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector. It will also help you to stand out in a competitive graduate jobs market and improve your chances of securing the career you want.

Benefits of a work placement year:

• 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
• Build industry contacts within your chosen field
• Our strong connections with industry mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
• Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in a particular company or sector
• Improve your employability

If you decide to undertake a placement year, this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you'll be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

With the help and support of our dedicated Employability Team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.

During your industrial placement, you'll have an industrial supervisor from within the company, plus an academic supervisor who will keep in touch throughout your placement.

Find out more about Industrial placements.