Academic/Subject Departments

Earth Science

Deep sea drilling, geophysical survey, environmental issues, the exploration of the solar system, computer modelling, satellite imagery and other new developments have brought us to a point where our understanding of the Earth is advancing.

Geologists are very employable and have lots of transferable skills. They are in demand and can earn high salaries.

Geological Science is about the Earth, how it formed from elements separating and migrating to form continents and oceans, how the chemistry of rocks can explain the Earth’s interior and why the Earth rings like a bell after earthquakes.

If you have an enquiring mind and would like the answers to a few fundamental questions such as –

• How did life begin?
• How old is the Universe?
• Why did the dinosaurs become extinct?
• What made Vesuvius erupt and is it likely to do so again?
• Are we really on a stable planet or is it true that we are moving towards Russia at a speed of 5cm per year?
• Can we save the planet from pollution?
• Can we predict Earthquakes and stop the destruction?

- then you should seriously consider studying Geology/Earth Science.

Geology/Earth Science also allows you to develop additional skills. You learn how to

• work as a team
• develop maps
• surf the net for the most recent volcanic eruptions
• observe minute cell variation in fossils and huge fault systems which extend thousands of kilometres across the globe
• work as an engineer on the Channel Tunnel
• decide how to stop lava flows wiping out ski resorts in Italy
• or write reports about pollution control or find and identify gem stones

The course is modular and leads directly from the Dual Science or triple Chemistry GCSE, both of which give you a short course in Earth Science. You study 3 modules in your first year, leading to an AS-level qualification. This covers the basic principles and introduces you to fieldwork techniques.

Extension into the A-level year allows you to study topics in greater depth by choosing 3 optional modules.

All you need is a grade A-C in Chemistry, Dual Science, Biology or Geography to take this course.

If you are interested in Science or Physical Geography or the environment, then this could be a good course for you.

Geologists have interesting work which allows them to travel the world and explore new places. University courses can include a year out in the USA or Europe and you could be monitoring faults or earthquakes in California.

You could be searching for oil, researching how the mantle layer convects heat or planning the building of a new stadium. On the other hand, the application of scientific methods, the organisation of fieldwork, presenting reports and solving problems are all valued key skills which are developed on this course and which are valued by prospective employers.