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Geology with an International Year: University of Birmingham

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Degree 
BSci
Address
Geology with an International Year: University of Birmingham, School of Geography, Earth & Environmental Sciences, The University of Birmingham,, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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Subject
Geology Earth science and Geography
Duration 
4 years
Telephone 
+44 121 414 5531/5543/5544
Fax 
+44 121 414 5528
Website 
http://www.gees.bham.ac.uk



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Courses available

  • Geology with an International Year MSci
    UCAS code: F601
  • Resource and Applied Geology with an International Year MSci
    UCAS code: F613
  • Environmental Geoscience with an International Year MSci
    UCAS code: F632

Geology – Earth Sciences – looks to the past, the present and the future of planet Earth. Whether it be unravelling the disappearance of the dinosaurs, finding acceptable methods of nuclear waste disposal, or monitoring and even predicting earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, geology plays a key role.

They offer four BSc Geology programmes: Geology; Resource and Applied Geology; Environmental Geoscience; and Geology with Biology. These programmes (with the exception of Geology with Biology) have MSci variants that include an International Year, where your third year of study is taken at a partner institution in either North America or Australasia.

First year

Your first-year work provides a foundation in all aspects of geology, such as global processes, mineralogy, Earth history and the fossil record – all based on the assumption that you have no previous knowledge. You undertake fieldwork – a strong component in your programme – and learn essential practical skills such as microscopy.

Second year

In this year you make your choices:

  • The Geology degree deepens and broadens your understanding of Earth processes and materials, and concentrates on the acquisition of a range of specialist skills
  • Resource and Applied Geology has an emphasis on how geologists are involved in mineral exploration and exploitation, along with their role in construction programmes and water resource management
  • Environmental Geoscience studies pollution of water resources; climatic change, past present and future; environmental management; natural hazards and their prediction; and human impact on the environment through mining and waste disposal

Throughout your second year you follow a core geology syllabus with specialised modules in the area of your choice. You also undertake an extensive fieldwork programme, both in the UK and abroad. This culminates in a fieldwork project on an area of your own choosing. A choice is made at the end of the year between a BSc or an MSci programme.

Third and fourth years

In your third and fourth years you have a greater range of choice of modules so that you can design a personal programme to suit your developing interests and career aspirations. Module choices can lead to careers in the petroleum industry, the construction industry or in one of the many areas of environmental geology. Project work is emphasised, providing an excellent training in research methods.

In addition to lectures, you undertake a research project of your choice, providing you with an excellent research training.

Teaching and assessment

Geology involves a varied practical work component and, in addition to six to eight hours of lectures a week, you will undertake a similar amount of practical work in all aspects of the subject. Fieldwork is a crucial part of each year of your degree programme. Modules are assessed using a variety of methods including examinations, projects and dissertations, group projects, class tests and field reports.

Career opportunities

Their graduates work in the oil industry, with exploration or service companies. You can move into hydrogeology, waste disposal, pollution control, or environmental management. Alternatively, you can opt for the construction industry as an engineering geologist, work for the British Geological Survey, carry out research or go into teaching.

Professional accreditation

These programmes are accredited by the Geological Society of London, leading to Chartered Geologist status and Fellowship of the Society

Entry requirements

  • Number of A levels required: 3
  • Typical offer: AAA–AAB
  • Required subjects and grades: two science subjects at A level (Geography is considered a science)
  • General Studies: not accepted
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma: 34–38 points including two science subjects at HL (Geography is considered a science)

Other qualifications are considered – see the entry requirements section for full details

Additional information

  • A subject booklet is available on request 

Contact details

For general information about open days

Main University Switchboard

  • Postal address: The University of Birmingham
    Edgbaston
    Birmingham
    B15 2TT
    United Kingdom
  • Tel: +44 (0)121 414 3344
  • Fax: +44(0)121 414 3971

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