Earth Science (BSc with Distance Learning option) - 2012/2013 entry

The earth sciences include a wide range of sub-disciplines, from geophysics to palaeontology, and volcanology to sedimentology. Through our distance learning modular course structure, we aim to cater for those whose interests are theoretical with desk/computer-based practical skills.

No fieldwork is required to complete this degree, although a fieldwork option is included. You can start with little or no experience, and exemptions are available if you already have some advanced qualifications.

• Provides a broad introduction to the range of earth science disciplines, with options allowing you to follow your own interests.
• Study by distance learning, wherever you are in the world (check our distance learning frequently asked questions for more information).
• Opportunity to take part in field classes to put your skills into practice.

You will take several compulsory modules in the first two years and then choose from a range of option modules. All students undertake a research project in Years 3 and 4.

Compulsory modules:

• Earth History
• Foundations of Mineralogy
• Introduction to Geochemistry
• Introduction to Geology
• Invertebrate Palaeontology.

Option module:

• Geology of the Solar System.

Year 2

Compulsory modules:

• Geophysics
• Igneous Petrology
• Metamorphic Petrology
• Principles of Sedimentology
• Structural Geology I.

Option module:

• Astrobiology.

Years 3 and 4

Compulsory project (which involves study of databases provided by staff or outside institutions, with the options of collecting new data through laboratory research or fieldwork).

Option modules include:

• Advanced Palaeontology 
• Chemistry and Pollution of Water, Air and Soil
• Earth’s Resources and Raw Materials
• Geochemical Techniques
• Global Tectonics
• Magmatic Processes
• Palaeoecology
• Structural Geology II
• Volcanism in the Solar System.

You may take optional fieldwork modules from the BSc Geology and BSc Environmental Geology.

We are a member of the Birkbeck/University College London Research School of Earth Sciences, providing access to a large, internationally recognised research group. Students have access to our online electronic library, which provides access to over 1000 science journals from home computers via a password.

Find out more about our research facilities.

We offer an MRes/PgDip in Earth Sciences.

Graduates go on to careers as geologists, in industry, in engineering, in surveying and in education. Visit our department website for career-related information.

The earth sciences cover a broad spectrum of research topics. You may have an interest in studying the evolution of life through the millennia, working with the fossil record to chart the development and extinction of species. You may be interested in looking at the dynamics involved in geohazards such as earthquakes and volcanoes. You may want to reconstruct ancient environments with an eye to addressing key environmental issues of our time, such as climate change and coastal erosion. Or you may wish to expand your general knowledge of the sciences, developing your skills of data collection and scientific analysis.

Whatever your ambitions, the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences offers a wide range of study options to suit your individual needs, from two-year Certificate of Higher Education programmes through to PhD research, and many of our programmes are available to study via distance learning.

• We suggest you apply as early as possible.
• Interviews mainly June–September.