Meet the Programme Leader
Lecturer in Chemistry and Environmental Geochemistry
In top 15 UK universities for earth and marine sciences, geology and geophysics - QS World University Rankings by subject 2023.
GEES515
Professional Practice in the Environmental Sector
This module examines the place of sustainability and environmental management in modern business practice, and prepares students for professional work experience in semester 2. It also provides students with a critical understanding of the principles, ethics and methods of environmental law and regulation, and examines the role of economics in characterising and addressing human interaction with the environment
GEES520
MSc Dissertation
The student will complete an independent research project that they have designed in semester 1 as part of their research skills development. The record of the research will communicate the project aims, research problem, methodology, data analysis, interpretation, discussion/synthesis and conclusions in the format specified and to a professional standard.
GEES526
Analysis of Chemicals of Environmental Concern
20 credits
Students will undertake a series of advanced analytical techniques in order to characterise and quantify a range of environmental pollutants commonly encountered in environmental investigations. Students are presented with case study examples based upon typical investigations undertaken in environmental consultancy.
100% Coursework
GEES500
Professional Placement Experience
This module provides an opportunity to experience professional practice via work experience with a company / host organisation. It will allow you to apply and develop your subject skills and knowledge, learn more about professional careers within the sector aligned to your degree, develop contacts with potential employers, and refine your career aspirations.
GEES533
Site Investigation and Land Quality
This module introduces all the phases of a site investigation, including the assessment of contamination, how it may impact upon receptors and, remediation strategies. Students undertake a desk study and write a related report of known sites where historical land use may have impacted land quality. Non-intrusive assessment techniques and the use of novel and advanced remediation technologies are covered in the module.
GEES534
Water Management and Sustainability in Mining
This module considers sustainable water resource management and mitigation of environmental damage from mining. Threats to ground and surface water resources are explored at all stages of mine operation from exploration to closure and reclamation. Students develop necessary theoretical geochemical, hydrological and hydrogeological knowledge to predict and manage outcomes according to current international best practice.
GEES531
Environmental Observations and Quality Assurance
20 credits
This module introduces the fundamental concepts of ‘the analytical approach’ to working with environmental problems, including student-lead case studies that allowing them to learn and apply the principles of good practice for observational data collection, quality control and traceability. Research study skills sessions are included, leading to the planning of a research dissertation.
100% Coursework
MAR514
Marine Science
20 credits
This module provides an introductory overview of basic oceanography including physical, chemical, geological and biological aspects of the subject. There is particular emphasis on methods of quantifying and predicting coastal conditions, as well as interplay between physical, chemical and biological aspects of ocean science.
100% Coursework
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Student | 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 |
---|---|---|
Home | £10,900 | £11,350 |
International | £19,800 | £20,400 |
Part time (Home) | £610 | £630 |
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
"I began studying on the MSc Environmental Geochemistry in September 2020 after graduating from Plymouth’s chemistry undergraduate course. If your educational background is different, do not let this put you off from applying. As an MSc routed in environmental science, the course is naturally multidisciplinary and I have had the opportunity to be taught by and to study alongside geologists, geographers, ocean scientists and other environmental professionals.
Throughout the MSc there have been many engaging guest lectures from industry professionals in areas such as environmental consultancy, sustainable agriculture, water management, renewable energy production, and contaminated land assessment. The modules and assessment structure of the MSc offer a solid grounding in not just how contaminants move through the environment but in other areas such as environmental law and economics, as well as practical experience with mapping and planning software widely used in industry.
It is not a secret that university has been different this last year. However, the course has determined and passionate leadership and has been delivered exceptionally well. I do not hesitate to recommend the MSc Environmental Geochemistry to any graduate interested in a career in environmental science."
Dan Rogers
Current student
"The teaching is of excellent quality by staff who are thoroughly knowledgeable in their subjects and who are actively researching these areas".
The MSc provides ‘real world’ experience during your placement (which can lead to permanent employment) of working with organisations who manage our environment, including: