Related linksEnvironmental Geology (BSc with Distance Learning option) - 2010/2011 entry (part-time study)
Why study this course at Birkbeck?
- Combine the study of geology in general with a specific focus on environmental issues.
- Offered as part-time study or you can study by distance learning, wherever you are in the world.
- Take part in field classes to put your skills into practice, held in the UK and Europe.
If you are concerned about the natural environment of our planet, this degree will be of interest to you. It considers issues such as pollution, water resources, planning and waste disposal, and is particularly relevant to anyone working in the environmental or civil engineering industries. You do not need any prior knowledge of the subject, but if you have some experience and an advanced qualification, you may be given exemptions from some of the degree.
In the first two years of the degree, you will share compulsory modules with those taking the BSc Geology. Once these are completed, you choose from a range of options which concentrate on specific environmental aspects. You may also choose modules in other subjects offered by Birkbeck to complement your geological studies or to broaden your scientific background and skills. An environmental project should be completed.
What will I be studying?
Year 1
- Introduction to Geology
- Invertebrate Palaeontology
- Earth History
- Introduction to Geochemistry
- Foundations of Mineralogy.
Year 2
- Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology
- Principles of Sedimentology
- Geophysics
- Structural Geology.
Years 3 and 4
- Hydrology and Pollution
- Chemistry of the Earth’s Surface Environment
- Geological Hazards
- Earth’s Resources and Raw Materials
- Project.
How will I be taught?
Your study will include a considerable number of laboratory classes supported by web-based learning, and fieldwork.
Over the four years of the programme you will spend about 100 days on field studies, including 10–14 days over the Easter period each year, an average of three weekend classes per year (one–three days each) and time spent on your own choice of project on an environmental geology theme.
Face-to-face lectures are supplemented by the Bloomsbury Learning Environment, a web-based environment where students can access course materials and where lectures are video streamed. Distance learning students can attend field classes alongside students taking the BSc degree by evening study.
How will I be assessed?
A combination of reports on field-based projects, laboratory work and written examinations. Some modules include continuous assessment through written work.
When should I apply?
- We suggest you apply as early as possible.
- Interviews June–September.
Make your application
You can apply online from the link below.
What study resources are available?
Our teaching is informed by considerable research into environmental issues, which is ongoing in the Department of Earth Sciences. Current research focuses on areas such as metal pollution, coastal erosion, mineralogy, earthquake prediction and palaeontology.
We are part of the Birkbeck/University College London Research School of Earth Sciences, providing access to a large research group on earth science issues.
What can I go on to do?
We offer an MRes/PgDip in Earth Sciences.
Earth sciences graduates also go on to careers as geologists, in industry, in engineering, in surveying, or in education.
Alternative courses
If you already have a BA/BSc degree, you might want to consider taking one of our one–two-year part-time Graduate Certificates instead. They can be used as preparation for Master's study by graduates in other subjects, and although you will still have to pay a higher fee, they can be completed more quickly than a BA/BSc degree.