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  • Earth History and Palaeontology (Certificate of Higher Education with Distance Learning option)
  • 2012/2013 entry
  • Contact us
  • Assessment

    • A combination of reports, practical work and written examinations. Some modules include continuous assessment through written work.

  • Attendance

    • One–three evenings a week, October–June.

      Also available by distance learning.

  • Duration

    • Minimum two years part-time.

  • Entry requirements

    • Over 21: flexible entry requirements, subject to interview.

      Under 21: normal university entry requirements, but no specific A-levels.

  • Fees and funding
  • Financial support
      • If you are a new student starting on a course in autumn 2012, you may be able to get a student loan to cover your fees and other Birkbeck financial support. Check if you're eligible.
      • If you are already studying with us and continuing on a course that you started before autumn 2012, find out about financial support and see if you are eligible.
      • Not sure if you are a new or a continuing student? See here for more information. 
  • Location
    • Central London or by distance learning.
  • Teaching

    • Face-to-face lectures are supplemented by Moodle, a web-based environment where you can access course materials and videos of lectures. Moodle can also be used as a distance learning alternative with supplementary web-based material.

      You can attend weekend field classes alongside students taking our BSc Geology.

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Study at Birkbeck  | Certificates and short courses  | Certificates and short courses, 2012/2013 entry: browse by subject (A-Z) | Earth History and Palaeontology (Certificate of Higher Education with Distance Learning option)

Earth History and Palaeontology (Certificate of Higher Education with Distance Learning option) - 2012/2013 entry


  • Overview
      • Gain a University of London qualification – expand your knowledge and enhance your CV.
      • Develop key knowledge and research skills in the field of earth history and palaeontology.
      • Offered as part-time study or you can study by distance learning, wherever you are in the world.
  • Why study this course at Birkbeck?

    • You will receive basic training in earth sciences, with a specialisation in stratigraphy, sedimentology and palaeontology. There is no fieldwork requirement, although you may attend field classes if you wish.

  • Course structure and modules

    • To gain the Certificate of Higher Education, you must successfully complete the following modules, worth a total of 120 credit points. 

      Year 1

      Compulsory modules:

      • Introduction to Geology
      • Earth History*
      • Invertebrate Palaeontology.*+

      Year 2

      One compulsory half-module:

      • Principles of Sedimentology.*

      Choice of three modules from:

      • Advanced Palaeontology*+
      • Assessed Field Techniques 1*
      • Astrobiology*
      • Palaeoecology*
      • Tectonic Geomorphology.*+

      * 15-credit half-modules.
      + Available in alternate years.
  • Further study opportunities

    • You can go on to BSc degrees or Graduate Certificates in geology and earth sciences.

  • How to apply/enrol

    • PA (programme application): you must complete an application form and must apply for the whole programme.

      We suggest you apply as early as possible. Interviews by arrangement.

      Submit your application

      You cannot currently apply online for this programme. Please contact us for more information.