This three-year degree provides high-level training in geophysics with supporting geology, and including fundamental university training in physics and mathematics. The degree is accredited under the ‘Accreditation of Geoscience First Degree’ scheme of the Geological Society of London. This scheme confirms the programme offers training of a calibre suitable for a professional career in geosciences and that it satisfies the requirements of Fellowship and Chartered Geologist status. Graduates from this degree are very successful in finding degree-related employment or continuing with further education. This programme is particularly strong for careers in interpretation and processing of geophysical data, and research areas related to geological applications. Transfer to a Geology degree is possible up to the end of the first year. The programme covers core topics in geology, geophysics and physics, plus a choice of advanced modules in geophysics. Major features include training in practical geophysics, exploration geophysics (particularly seismology), planetary-scale geophysics and geophysical inverse theory. Fieldwork currently involves field areas in Wales, Spain and Tenerife. You will work within one of our research groups to undertake a significant geophysical research project in your final year. This provides excellent training in research methodology for an academic or industrial research career.

There has never been a better time to study Earth Sciences. Many of the fundamental questions of our times will be answered by geoscientists, as we seek to provide sustainable resources for the world’s population, predict and mitigate against climate change and natural hazards by building a better understanding of the planet on which we live. The majority of our recent graduates have gained employment within a degree-related field or continued within further education after graduation. We have close links with geoscience and environmental industries ensuring that our degrees properly equip you for future employment. The truly interdisciplinary nature of our degrees additionally makes graduates in the Earth Sciences highly sought after by other employment sectors. Recent employers Companies employing our graduates in recent years include: Geological Surveys in the UK and abroad Hydrocarbon and support industries: ExxonMobil, BP, Shell, Geotrace, Geokinetics, Neftex, Robertson, Deloitte, Veritas, Osiris, PGS. Engineering and environmental consultancies: The Environment Agency, Environmental Resources Management, URS Corporation, Caulmert Ltd, VerdErg Renewables, RSK Environment, Geomaterials. Mining and related industries: Gold Fields, Rio Tinto, Cliffs Natural Resources, Geological Solutions, Hanson Aggregate Marine Ltd., Aggregate Industries. Work experience opportunities Our students often successfully complete internships in industry during university vacations. Many of the academic staff in the department have worked outside of academia and can provide support and guidance in finding a suitable placement. Postgraduate opportunities Many of our graduates go on to further study on vocational Masters or PhD programmes. Qualifying you for life As well as subject-specific skills, you will graduate with a wide range of transferrable skills. You will have experience of working independently and as a member of a team, with the opportunity also to be a team leader. You will have presented work in the form of reports, posters and oral presentations, and will have used a wide range of software and specialist equipment. You will have gained time-management and organisational skills from completing your independent project, and will be able to integrate large quantities of data from a wide range of sources and at a variety of scales to solve real-world problems.