Department of Earth Sciences | BSc Geology (with Placement Year)
48 monthsProgramme duration
SepStarting Month
Programme overview
Main Subject
Geology
Degree
BSc
Study Level
Undergraduate
Study Mode
On Campus
Understanding the processes that have shaped the Earth through the study of earth materials, such as rocks, minerals, sediments and fossils, is central to solving a number of critical issues facing us in the 21st century. This knowledge allows us to develop solutions to protect society and the planet from climate change and natural hazards, and to help find and steward Earth's finite energy, mineral and water resources.
Our flexible degree puts you in control, giving you both the fundamental knowledge and increased specialisation as you progress through the degree, allowing you to choose a pathway of most interest to you. The BSc Geology is accredited by the Geological Society of London.
Combining academic excellence and cutting-edge research, the course will equip you with the tools needed for employment in a range of sectors, including mineral exploration, geo-energy, engineering geology, environmental and hydrogeology consultancies, GIS, geological surveys, or for further study or research. Numeracy, critical thinking and problem-solving skills developed on the course are highly valued in a wide range of non-geology careers, including teaching, business management, insurance and accounting, banking and finance.
You may be able to transfer to the four-year MSci degree in Earth Sciences at the end of your second year. The Earth Science department also offers BSc courses in Environmental Geoscience, Geophysics, Climate Science and Geoscience and it is possible to choose a set of modules that may allow you to transfer to one of our other courses at the end of your first year.
Durham Education 2027
The University is committed to continuous improvement and is currently undertaking a review to enhance our courses. As we make updates, some details of courses advertised for 2027 entry may change. These enhancements are being developed in consultation with students and in response to student feedback. We will not be making changes to degree subjects, academic standards or the broad concepts that will be taught, but to how courses are organised. In some cases this may mean that the balance of compulsory and optional modules may change. Any updates will be communicated transparently and by the end of summer 2026, ensuring applicants know exactly what to expect from their chosen degree.
Placement year available
Programme overview
Main Subject
Geology
Degree
BSc
Study Level
Undergraduate
Study Mode
On Campus
Understanding the processes that have shaped the Earth through the study of earth materials, such as rocks, minerals, sediments and fossils, is central to solving a number of critical issues facing us in the 21st century. This knowledge allows us to develop solutions to protect society and the planet from climate change and natural hazards, and to help find and steward Earth's finite energy, mineral and water resources.
Our flexible degree puts you in control, giving you both the fundamental knowledge and increased specialisation as you progress through the degree, allowing you to choose a pathway of most interest to you. The BSc Geology is accredited by the Geological Society of London.
Combining academic excellence and cutting-edge research, the course will equip you with the tools needed for employment in a range of sectors, including mineral exploration, geo-energy, engineering geology, environmental and hydrogeology consultancies, GIS, geological surveys, or for further study or research. Numeracy, critical thinking and problem-solving skills developed on the course are highly valued in a wide range of non-geology careers, including teaching, business management, insurance and accounting, banking and finance.
You may be able to transfer to the four-year MSci degree in Earth Sciences at the end of your second year. The Earth Science department also offers BSc courses in Environmental Geoscience, Geophysics, Climate Science and Geoscience and it is possible to choose a set of modules that may allow you to transfer to one of our other courses at the end of your first year.
Durham Education 2027
The University is committed to continuous improvement and is currently undertaking a review to enhance our courses. As we make updates, some details of courses advertised for 2027 entry may change. These enhancements are being developed in consultation with students and in response to student feedback. We will not be making changes to degree subjects, academic standards or the broad concepts that will be taught, but to how courses are organised. In some cases this may mean that the balance of compulsory and optional modules may change. Any updates will be communicated transparently and by the end of summer 2026, ensuring applicants know exactly what to expect from their chosen degree.
Placement year available
Admission Requirements
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