TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Environmental Geoscience

Explore how Earth's natural processes and human activities converge to shape today's environments, and why interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for building a sustainable future.

Our typical offer

112 UCAS points

Top lab facilities

Hone your microscopy skills in one of Europe’s leading 5G connected microscopy teaching laboratories.

Exciting field work

Discover the outstanding geology of the Southwest through field trips that provide exciting hands-on experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to study overseas – exploring sites from the ruins of Pompeii to the landscapes of Death Valley.

Career focus 

Boost your career prospects though our extensive geo-careers fair, industry placements, and study abroad. 
BSc (Hons) Environmental Geoscience
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About

From the Earth’s surface to its core our Environmental Geoscience degree programme explores the forces that shape our planet while tackling today's critical challenges. Combine an in-depth understanding of geological processes with modules on the biosphere, environmental management, and conservation.

Sarah BoultonProfessor Sarah Boulton
Professor of Geohazards

 
 
 

This course is for you if...

you want to discover the tools to tackle our pressing global challenges
Magnifying glass looking at earth
you enjoy hands-on experience in the outdoors or the laboratory
Plant growing in earth
you are looking for a friendly and supportive teaching environment with hands-on career support
Three heads with hands holding them depicting community
you thrive in real-world, non-exam-based assessments
Ticklist depicting goal setting for graduates

Details

Year 1

From day one you’ll dive into the world of Earth Sciences, laying the foundations of geological and environmental knowledge that will set you up for success throughout your university journey. Your first year will equip you with essential Earth Science skills and core knowledge, empowering you to tackle sustainable development challenges alongside developing an understanding of topics such as plate tectonics, climate change, and the challenges faced by modern environments and biodiversity. Hands-on learning will be a key part of your experience, as you study minerals, rocks, fossils, and geological structures in our cutting-edge 5G microscope laboratories. Plus, get ready for exciting fieldwork in the stunning landscapes of the UK’s Southwest and Southern Italy, where you'll explore the real-world impact of geohazards.
Girls into Geoscience

Core modules

GEES1201
Sustainable Geoscience 20 credits

Kick off your degree by gaining an understanding of the important role of geoscientists in solving today’s biggest environmental issues (e.g. the energy transition, sustainable development) alongside exploring the fundamentals of Earth history and structure (e.g. plate tectonics, climate change, evolution of life). Through field, tutorial and lecture-based teaching this module will support your transition to university.

60% Coursework

40% Practicals

GEES1202
Earth Materials and Resources 20 credits

Discover Earth’s building blocks and how dynamic Earth processes shape geologic materials. You will gain the observational skills needed to unravel how the Earth works, including getting hands on using our 5G-enabled microscope lab. You will learn to read geological maps and use them to decipher the sequence of geological events that have shaped our planet’s history. See the Earth in a whole new light!

70% Coursework

30% Remotely delivered assessments

GEES1203
Climate, Tectonics and Hazards 40 credits

Develop your knowledge of climate and hazards. Through hands on practicals, field work and lectures learn how sedimentary rocks and fossils illuminate past, present and future climatic and oceanographic changes, and use maps and GIS to explore landscapes, earthquakes and volcanoes. Consolidate knowledge in the field, putting into practice new skills and seeing hands on the effects of geohazards on people and places.

50% Coursework

25% Practicals

25% Tests

GEES1303
Our Ecological Planet: Biodiversity and Ecological Change 20 credits

Explore Earth's ecosystems in this hands-on, interdisciplinary module! Dive into ecology, biodiversity, and conservation through fieldwork and case studies. Learn taxa identification, habitat dynamics, and key ecological processes. Build real-world skills to tackle global challenges and kickstart your career in environmental science and management.

70% Coursework

30% Tests

GEES1305
The Environmental Manager's Toolbox 20 credits

Discover the essential tools, strategies and concepts you’ll need to tackle the biggest environmental challenges. Learn from industry experts and explore how our modern economy drives these challenges. Study how laws, governance, corporate responsibility, and sustainable practices are being used in imaginative ways to protect our planet. This module will equip you with the knowledge and skills to be a future-fit leader.

70% Coursework

30% Tests

Year 2

Year 2 takes you on a journey from the Earth’s surface to its core, exploring key environmental issues and their possible solutions. You'll sharpen your observational, analytical and interpretive skills, using them to tackle some of the most exciting geological and most important environmental questions. You'll also gain hands-on experience with field techniques, including geophysical equipment. For those looking to broaden their horizon even further, you can seize the opportunity to study your second year abroad in incredible locations like Canada, USA or Europe.
Dartmoor field trip 5

Core modules

GEES2000
Placement Preparation 0 credits

This module explores the role of placements, work experience and volunteering for enhancing employability whilst at university and as a future graduate. It considers placement options (types, durations) and supports students in developing applications and preparing for interviews.

100% Assessments

GEES2201
The Earth Surface and Critical Zone 40 credits

Explore the Earth’s surface and shallow subsurface now and through Deep Time. Develop the skills and knowledge used by geoscientists to find and manage resources like groundwater or geothermal energy, store energy or hazardous fluids, build safe infrastructure and understand hazardous phenomena and climate impacts. Work on real-world projects that integrate remote sensing, geophysics, field and lab-based investigations.

50% Coursework

25% Practicals

25% Remotely delivered assessments

GEES2202
The Earth's Interior and Resources 40 credits

Investigate the Earth’s Interior to understand how magmatism, tectonics and fluid flow control the development of sustainable resources. Through a case-study approach you will combine state-of-the-art rock microscopy, structural geology and geophysics to evaluate the Earths internal processes. Fieldwork and seismic imaging with industry software will allow you to apply this knowledge to real-world situations.

50% Coursework

25% Practicals

25% Remotely delivered assessments

GEES2303
Environmental Management and Sustainability 20 credits

Expand your knowledge and critical thinking skills in key areas of environmental science and management, using insights from economics and environmental governance to explore solutions to real life problems affecting life supporting resources such as water, air, energy or food.

60% Coursework

40% Practicals

GEES2304
Environmental Issues and Communication 20 credits

Science isn’t finished until it’s communicated. Learn about some of the crucial challenges we face in communicating scientific data and ideas to create change in society. You will not just discover how to communicate to different groups - including policymakers, children, media organisations and science deniers - but you will also produce innovative multimedia communication pieces too.

100% Coursework

Optional placement year

Take advantage of our optional placement year, giving you the opportunity to develop your knowledge and skills in the workplace gaining valuable experience. Find your perfect placement with the help of our employability service and benefit from specialist workshops and tutorials in your second year, helping you prepare for your year in industry.
Geology student on fieldtrip

Core modules

GEES3000
Placement 0 credits

This module is a placement position, where a student undertakes a programme of work within a host company or organisation. The placement occurs within a yearlong period, meeting minimum duration requirements. Students experience applying their degree, experience professional practice, develop enhanced subject-related knowledge and skills, and undergo personal-professional development.

100% Coursework

Final year

In your third year you will elevate your data analysis skills to a professional level. Your dissertation project will be an exciting opportunity to collect and analyse data independently, whether in the field or the lab. Alongside core modules that deepen your professional geological expertise, you’ll have the chance to choose from a range of sustainability-focused optional modules from environmental science and geology, allowing you to tailor your final year to your passions and interests. For those craving adventure, you can take your learning beyond the classroom with advanced fieldwork opportunities in incredible locations like Namibia or Death Valley, USA, where you’ll gain invaluable hands-on experience and refine your professional field skills.
Death Valley, Geology fieldwork

Core modules

GEES3201
Geoscience Research Project 40 credits

Realise your passion for Earth science by conducting a research project on an exciting scientific question. Choose a project from a wide range of Earth Science topics (e.g. volcanology, palaeontology, remote sensing, structural geology). Use cutting-edge fieldwork, lab techniques, or digital tools to explore your chosen area, gaining hands-on experience and developing valuable subject specific and transferable skills.

85% Coursework

15% Practicals

GEES3202
Professional Field and Core Analysis 20 credits

Ready to rock the world of geology? Get set to apply your skills in the field and the lab, working solo and within a dynamic team. You'll dive into geological mapping and rock core analysis, using top-notch industry tools. A hands-on experience will help you master job tendering, data analysis, and reporting for real commercial clients. It's not just learning, it's about becoming a pro and preparing for an awesome career!

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

GEES3204
Environmental and Resource Geoscience 20 credits

Sharpen your skills ready for industry, tackling some of the most urgent environmental issues facing the world today, from pervasive mining pollution in post-industrial catchments to the role of the subsurface in decarbonisation. You will engage in hands-on workshops, solving problems associated with past industry, as well as getting to grips with state-of-the-art software and real-world datasets.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

Optional modules

GEES3002
Frontiers in Fieldwork: Unlocking Multidisciplinary Potential 20 credits

Embark on exploration of critical, real-world challenges in an exciting field context. Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams to tackle a core issue through a research project of your own creation. Sharpen your existing expertise and develop important transdisciplinary skills that prepare you to face career challenges beyond university with confidence and innovation.

100% Coursework

GEES3205
Tectonics and Geohazards 20 credits

Explore one of the World’s most tectonically active and hazardous regions to understand the cause and impact of tectonics on hazards (earthquakes, volcanics, landslides, tsunami, floods) and resources (water, minerals, energy). Develop skills to evaluate the influence of active tectonics on these hazards, either through an overseas field trip (e.g. California) or through application of GIS and remote sensing.

100% Coursework

GEES3206
Environmental Change Through Earth History 20 credits

The Earth’s environments are changing fast. Learn how studying past environmental change helps us understand the impacts of current and future human induced environmental change. Using advanced techniques in geochemistry and palaeontology, you’ll explore past events to predict future impacts, equipping you with the skills to tackle the environmental challenges of tomorrow.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

GEES3308
Global Environmental Solutions 20 credits

Explore interdisciplinary approaches to addressing contemporary global environmental challenges and enhance your skills in critically evaluating environmental policies and political frameworks affecting how environmental problems are managed. Apply environmental economics and sustainability principles to selected environmental issues and examine how research data informs complex environmental decision-making.

50% Coursework

50% Practicals

GEES3310
Climate Change Action 20 credits

The time to act is now! Never has there been a more relevant time to equip yourself for the drive to deliver climate action. Here you will be immersed in the most up-to-date understanding of the science and policy, trained in climate risk analysis and shown how to be a valuable agent of climate change action in the professional workplace.

50% Coursework

50% Remotely delivered assessments

 
 
 
 
 
 
Flexible course structure
We offer a suite of courses allowing you to choose your specialist field. Our course structure is flexible and allows you to:
  • switch course after the first year
  • study your second year abroad without adding an extra year to your studies 
  • do an optional industry placement between your second and third year. You can even do this after studying your second year abroad
  • progress onto our integrated Masters programme from one of our Earth Science BSc programmes

Innovative Earth Science courses

Our Earth Science courses are designed around a core of shared modules to equip you with the essential skills and expertise needed to confront today’s global challenges.
Core modules teach Earth Sciences in a holistic way that integrates various subject areas such as volcanology, palaeontology or geophysics and are complemented by distinct specialist modules for each degree programme taught by relevant experts in geology, physical geography, and environmental science – making them truly interdisciplinary. 
Death Valley, Geology field courses

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

 
 
 

Fieldtrips to exciting destinations

We believe you learn best through direct experience in natural environments, which is why we offer an extensive fieldwork programme that immerses you in hands-on research at world-class geological sites.From the exceptional geology of Southwest England to transformative international destinations, our fieldwork takes you to study active volcanoes and earthquakes in Italy* during your first year, explores geological plate boundaries in the Western United States on our optional third-year Death Valley field trip, and explores real-world challenges in our novel Namibia field trip working with professional scientists and local communities*. These field experiences develop your practical skills, build confidence, and provide essential expertise in geological research methods. 
*Costs for all compulsory field trip such as the Italy trip are included in your fees, while student pay a contribution for optional field trips such as the Death Valley trip.
 
 
 

Facilities to support your learning

As a Plymouth Physical Geography and Geology student, you will have access to a range of cutting-edge resources and facilities to support your learning in the field and in the laboratory.
You might find yourself identifying microfossils, pollen and other materials, such as microplastics in our 5G interactive microscope laboratory; analysing a wide range of digital data, using a variety of specialist software programmes; or developing skills in remote sensing and Geographical Information Science (GIS).
Europe’s first 5G interactive microscope labs enable students to get up close with science
Geography Lab Practical Session in the Davy building.
 
 

Study abroad and industry placement opportunities

All our degree programmes offer the option to study abroad for a year, complete a year in industry – or even do both! These experiences can significantly boost your employability by giving you practical, real-world exposure and helping you develop valuable transferable skills.
BSc (Hons) Geology graduate Ellis took full advantage of these opportunities, spending her second year studying at Western Washington University and then completing an industry placement with the UK Hydrographic Office before returning to finish her final year.

This degree has challenged me in the best possible ways, helped me discover strengths I didn’t know I had, and provided experiences I’ll carry with me for life. From my year abroad and the incredible field trips, to gaining industry experience and working alongside such passionate staff and peers, I’ve made lifelong memories. I truly couldn’t recommend studying Geology at Plymouth more highly to anyone considering it.

Ellis.png

Ellis
BSc Geology graduate

 
 
 
 

Learn from experts

You will learn from expert, accessible, and supportive staff who are skilled researchers in their field
Our research is focused on environment-society interactions, environmental processes and change, and their governance through regulation, management policies and stakeholder involvement.

Meet your lecturers

Dr Uwe Balthasar Lecturer in Palaeontology


Lecturer in Palaeontology

Professor Sarah Boulton Deputy Head of School and Associate Head of School - Marketing and Recruitment


Deputy Head of School and Associate Head of School - Marketing and Recruitment

Dr Paul Cole Associate Professor of Volcanology


Associate Professor of Volcanology

Show all
 
 
 

Journey to the Bottom of the Celtic Sea

This documentary delves into the emerging world of Floating Offshore Wind in the Celtic Sea – an exciting frontier in renewable energy. 
Led by Professor Iain Stewart MBE , the film uncovers the proposed developments, revealing the hidden landscape of the seabed, the innovative technologies driving progress, and the transformative opportunities this project presents for the South-West region.
 
 
 

Enrich your studies – join the Geological Society

As one of Plymouth University's biggest non-sport societies, GeolSoc is open to everyone no matter what you are studying. By joining GeolSoc and attending our socials you will make friends and memories.
For our members studying Earth Sciences, this is also a great way to get to know your course mates outside the classroom as well as being the first to know about the geology related opportunities that we get offered.
Join GeolSoc
Geology student society (GeolSoc)
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Students sitting on the Barbican
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Accommodation halls internal
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Group of female members of cheerleading society
Get involved with one of our many student groups
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene

Careers

geology students on a field trip.

I can confidently say that the University has provided me with an incredible education, invaluable experiences, and a clear career path.

Wll.png

Will
BSc (Hons) Physical Geography and Geology graduate, working as a geophysicist for an offshore survey company. 

 
 
Environmental geoscience equips you with the scientific insight and social awareness needed to address global challenges – from climate change to sustainable resource management. Through hands-on learning and field-based experiences, you’ll develop critical thinking, data analysis and communication skills that are highly valued across sectors.
Our graduates thrive in careers such as environmental consultancy, ecology, waste management, planning and education. With strong transferable skills in strategic thinking, scientific reasoning and problem-solving, they’re also well prepared for roles in law, business and communications. This course opens doors to diverse opportunities, empowering you to make a meaningful impact wherever your career takes you.

We’re regulars to the Geo-Environmental Careers Fair, and there’s a reason we keep coming back – the engagement from the Plymouth students is second to none! So many questions and curiosity in what we do. And the connections we make are often followed through to placements and permanent positions.

All around the exhibition space you hear the same from all the stands, ‘We really enjoy coming to this fair, it’s one of the best.’
Hannah Dwane
Geotechnics, 2023

Where will your work placement take you...?

Whether completing a summer placement or taking advantage of a full placement year, working with an employer will provide you with the chance to develop skills and refine your career ambitions. Placements take place all over the UK and rest of the world and employers have included:
  • UK Hydrographic office
  • Gardline
  • Fugro
  • Sibelco
  • Imerys
  • Geotechnical Engineering Ltd
  • Bridgeway Ltd
  • Redrock Ltd
Close up of compass

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
 2026-2027.
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about  fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,650 per year
Optional placement year  completed in the UK
£1,905
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£19,200 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
To be confirmed
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
To be confirmed
 

Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
112 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) English and Mathematics at grade C / 4 or above.

A level
112 points including a minimum of 2 A levels in a science subject (see subject list below) or 120 points including 1 A level in a science subject (see subject list below).
We accept the following A level subjects: Biology/Human Biology, Maths/Use of Maths/Further Maths, Statistics, Physics, Electronics, Chemistry, Environmental Science/Studies, Applied Science, Geography, Geology, Design and Technology, Psychology, Computer Science/Computer Programming, Information Technology/Information and Communication Technology.

BTEC QCF Extended Diploma/RQF National Extended Diploma
DMM to DDM – science related subject. You are encouraged to contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk if you do not meet this criteria.
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

Access courses
Pass an Access to HE Diploma (science based) with at least 33 credits at merit. You are encouraged to contact admissions@plymouth.ac.uk if you do not meet this criteria.

T Level
Merit overall from any science pathway.

International Baccalaureate
28 - 30 points overall to include science related subjects.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 
Direct entry to year two or the final year is possible.
Accepted subject include: applied science, animal management, countryside management, forensic science.
BSc (Hons) Environmental Science is also available for intercalating students .

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
For enquiries about direct entry to years two and four, contact Admissions Tutor Dr Tim Daley .
Intercalating students wishing to apply for the final year of this course please contact our admissions team on +441752585858 or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk. 
UCAS course code
F643
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
  • Apply at UCAS.com
    •  

    Entry requirements

    We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
     
    Our typical offer
    112 UCAS points
     
     

    BSearch entry requirements for your country

    5

    English language requirements

    To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
     

    Ready to apply?

    As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
     
  • Apply at UCAS.com
  • Find an agent
    • UCAS course code
    F643
    Institution code
    P60
    Duration

    3 years
    (+ optional placement)
    Course type

    Full-time
    Study location
    Plymouth
     
     
     

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