Department of Earth Sciences | BSc Geoscience

BSc Geoscience at Durham University

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With this BSc in Geoscience you gain the knowledge you need to understand how the Earth works and learn how Earth systems interact. You will investigate solutions to society's most challenging problems.

Understanding the processes involved in shaping the Earth’s surface, our Natural Resources, Natural Hazards, Water Supplies and Renewable Energy can inform us about the impact of past and present changes in environmental conditions. This knowledge will allow us to predict behaviour and develop solutions to protect society and the planet’s future from today’s global challenges.

Our flexible Geoscience degree, puts you in control, giving you both the fundamentals and increased specialisation as you progress, allowing you to choose a pathway of most interest to you.

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 and petroleum geology, 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.

In the first year, you will develop a fundamental understanding of Earth Sciences. Year 2 specialises more in the Geological aspects, during which you will develop your knowledge of Core Geological Disciplines associated with Igneous, Metamorphic, Sedimentary and Tectonic Processes. In Year 3, you will undertake a Geological research dissertation and increase your understanding of specialist Geological topics of your choice with optional residential fieldwork opportunities.

You may be able to transfer to the four-year MSci degree in Earth Sciences at the end of your second year.

Our flexible courses have been developed to meet the needs of industry and provide you with the skills you need to succeed. You will graduate with the scientific foundations and transferable skills to move directly into the workplace or to progress to a more specialised postgraduate qualification.

Career prospects for Durham University graduates are excellent. Geology and Earth Sciences graduates are highly valued by employers and go on to a wide range of highly successful careers in the sector and beyond, working in industry and research, including environmental management, water management, energy and engineering geology. Some of the high-profile employers our graduates have gone on to work for include ATKINS, ARUP, Centrica and the Environment Agency.

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