Geology BSc

Our Geology degree offers a broad education in the geosciences from the processes that govern the Earth’s surface and interior, to the interactions between society and the Earth.

You’ll study all the essential geoscience disciplines: the sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic origins of rocks and minerals; the evolution of life on Earth; plate tectonics and the structural deformation of rocks; natural hazards and climate change; geotechnics; geological mapping and fieldwork; the sustainable management of natural resources and the development of clean geoenergy.

There’s a strong emphasis on applying your knowledge in the real world through practical hands-on learning and field trips, and you’ll be equipped with all the geological skills necessary to understand and work in the modern world.

Course highlights

• You’ll be taught by internationally renowned academics working at the forefront of their fields, who are passionate about the subjects they teach.

• You’ll join a large and vibrant school, which brings together expertise ranging from geology and geophysics, environmental science, meteorology and climate science, to environmental social science.

• The content of your course is shaped by our world-leading research.

• Field work is a key part of all our degrees, where you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience.

• Our theoretical modules are supported by extensive practical sessions in the laboratory, which are designed to reinforce the material taught to you in the lectures.

• We have excellent relationships with major companies in the sector. Their developing commercial requirements also inform and influence the development of our course content.

• Throughout your studies you’ll benefit from a structured support system, with a personal tutor who will offer help and advice about your approach to studying and how to become adept at independent learning.

Specialist facilities

You’ll benefit from excellent teaching facilities including extensive lab space and equipment such as in our Earth Visualisation Lab which is home to 85 polarising microscopes for rock analysis, a number of binocular stereo zoom microscopes for micropalaeontology and ore genesis work and the extra-deep desks are suitable for laying out large geological maps for teaching 3D thinking skills.

Find out more about our facilities.

Enhancing your degree

During your time at Leeds, you can decide to study abroad or undertake an industrial placement.

We also offer an Integrated Masters (combining bachelor and Masters level study), where you spend a year studying abroad at a partner university and return to Leeds to study MSc-level modules in your final year.

The first and second year focus on building your skillset in core modules, while the final year is dedicated to the application of these skills to a variety of geological topics in a combination of core and optional modules.

Throughout the degree you will study themes such as:

The Rock Cycle - You’ll get a broad introduction to geological materials by exploring how the rock cycle, driven by plate tectonics and Earth surface processes, creates, alters and destroys minerals and rocks.

Habitable Planet - You’ll look at big picture geology; the formation and evolution of the Earth; what makes it habitable for life; how it functions as a planet; and you’ll learn the fundamental aspects of chemistry, maths and physics you’ll need to study the Earth.

Field, Research and GIS skills - You’ll start developing the key skills needed to become an Earth scientist, from collecting, recording and interpreting data in the field to using computing packages, such as Geographic Information System (GIS) software.

Shaping the Earth - Using the geological history of the British Isles as an example you’ll explore how plate tectonics and global geological processes have shaped the Earth through time, and how the palaeontological record illustrates the evolution of life on our planet.

3D Earth - Discover the three-dimensional nature of geological structures, sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks, and how to describe and interpret these in two- and three-dimensions using geological maps and cross sections over the fourth dimension - time.

Geology and Society - Explore the complex interactions between the geosciences and society, illustrating the diverse roles of geoscientists, including topical case studies on natural resources, geohazards and infrastructure.

Course structure

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

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Geology BSc in the course catalogue

Modules

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Learning and teaching

Most modules combine lectures with practicals, workshops or seminars, depending on the subject. These are enhanced with skills classes, fieldtrips 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, visualisation suites and out in the field.

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 at the cutting edge of research world-wide, and who will incorporate this expertise into their teaching.

You will have a designated personal tutor throughout your studies at Leeds, who will be an academic member of staff. You will have fortnightly academic tutorials with your tutor throughout your first two years, in your tutor group (of typically 5 students), 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 will also receive support from fellow students through our peer mentoring scheme.

Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for the School, your programme and modules.

You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.

Watch our taster lecture to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:

• ‘Rumbly with a chance of shakes; why are we bad at forecasting earthquakes?’

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

You'll be assessed through a variety of methods, specifically designed to help students learn, whatever their preferred learning style. We use both coursework and exams, but with a general progression from an emphasis on exams in year one towards an emphasis on coursework in your final year.

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB including two from Biology, Chemistry, Geology, Geography or Environmental Studies (not both), Mathematics, and Physics.

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. Excludes A-Level General Studies or Critical Thinking.

You don’t need to have a qualification in geology to study this course, as we start from first principles.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): We recognise the value of this qualification and the effort and skills required to undertake it, where an applicant is taking the EPQ this may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. The EPQ taken with A-Levels, for example, could be BBB with an A in the EPQ.

GCSE: English and Mathematics at grade C (4) or above, or an equivalent appropriate English language and Mathematics qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.

• Access to HE Diploma

  Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, 30 credits with Distinction and the remaining 15 credits with Merit or above. Must be in relevant subjects.

• BTEC

  DDM in Extended Diploma/3 Subsidiary Diplomas in two relevant subjects. We will accept a combination of BTECs and A-Levels. Please contact the School's Undergraduate Admissions Team for more information.

• Cambridge Pre-U

  D3, M2, M2 including two relevant subjects.

• International Baccalaureate

  34 points overall, with 16 points at higher level to include 5 points in two relevant subjects, one of which must be in mathematics or a science subject.

• Irish Highers (Leaving Certificate)

  AAABBB/H2H2H2H3H3H3 in two relevant subjects.

• Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers

  AABBB overall with BB in 2 Advanced Highers (AH). For non-AH applicants AABBBB. To include 2 relevant subjects.

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 an alternative 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 alternative admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: BBC plus a pass in the Access to Leeds scheme.

For alternative qualification offers please contact the admissions team.

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. We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.

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.

How to apply

Apply to this course through UCAS. The institution code for the University of Leeds is L23. Check the deadline for applications on 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.

Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK/EU students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Visit Days

If you receive an offer to study with us, we’ll invite you to attend one of our visit days. You’ll have the opportunity to meet our academic staff and students, explore the School and University and find out more about your course and what it’s like to be a student at Leeds.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2022

Fees

UK: See fees section below

International: £25,250 (per year)

UK undergraduate tuition fees for 2021 entry 
For UK full-time students starting in 2021, the fee for 2021/22 will be £9,250.

The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the UK government and may vary if policy changes.

EU students starting in 2021/22 
EU students starting their course in the 2021/22 academic year or later will now be classed as international students and so will need to pay the international student tuition fee.

UK undergraduate tuition fees for 2022 entry
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2022/23 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. In other years, the government has confirmed fee levels in the summer. When the fee is confirmed we will publish an update on all course pages.

Tuition fees for new international students for 2022 entry
Tuition fees for international students are published on each individual course page. These are usually published a year in advance, so 2022 course fees should be available from September 2021.

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.

Brexit 
Visit our Brexit page for the latest information on the effect of the UK's exit from the EU on current students and applicants to the University.

Additional cost information

<p>Because we recognise the value of field experience, the school heavily subsidises or covers transport and accommodation costs for compulsory taught field courses and many optional field trips. You will have to supplement the cost of some optional field trips.</p>

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 about additional costs

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.

A degree from Leeds and the experience you'll gain here will give you the edge to find the career you want. Your course will give you the experience and knowledge that employers are looking for to help you secure a graduate job.

University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2021, High Fliers’ Research.

Geology graduates are highly regarded by employers for their skills in detailed observations, teamwork, problem solving, IT and data handling and manipulation.

Studying Geology at Leeds opens the door to a wide range of careers. The solid scientific basis of your course and the fieldwork involved gives your degree a high value in a number of employment sectors. Oil and mineral industries are the traditional employers for geologists, but you’ll also find career opportunities in new and expanding areas of engineering and environmental protection such as renewable energies. The transferable skills that you acquire throughout your degree will help you in many employment sectors.

Our graduates have secured positions including:

• Project Engineer, Fugro Geoconsulting Ltd

• Geoscientist, ExxonMobil

• Technical Assistant, Heritage Insight Ltd

• Explorationist, Brunei Shell Petroleum

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

Careers support

At Leeds we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We will help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.

You will be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.

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

Visit our Careers and employability page to find out more.

There are also plenty of exciting ways you can volunteer during your time at Leeds. Find out more at the Leeds University Union website.

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.

The optional study abroad year takes place between years two and three and will extend your studies by 12 months. You will return to Leeds to complete your final year of study.

Find out more on the Study Abroad website.

You may also be interested in our integrated Masters degree. On this course, your year abroad replaces the third year of your degree and you will return to Leeds to study Masters-level modules in your fourth year.

Work placements

Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

An industrial placement year is a great way to help you decide what kind of career you might like when you graduate. As well as giving you the opportunity to develop your skills, you’ll gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector.

With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can choose to undertake a salaried industrial placement year at one of the 100+ companies that we work with. If you decide to undertake a placement year this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you will be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

Below are examples of placements our students have recently completed:

• Atkins, Water & Environment Placement

• Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Geology placement

• Leap Environmental, Geo Environmental Placement

• Harrison Group Environmental, Assistant Geotechnical-Geoenvironmental Engineer

• Wardell Armstrong Assistant Geologist

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

The optional placement year takes place between years two and three.

Find out more about Industrial placements.