Physical Geography and Geology, BSc (Hons), with industry placement

Course summary

Physical geography and geology examines how the Earth’s surface is shaped by natural and human processes. This knowledge is key to addressing many of the complex sustainability challenges facing the planet. Our modules explore geohazards and risk, clean energy transitions, and long term environmental change. Students gain specialist academic, international fieldwork and laboratory skills providing a springboard to an exciting and diverse range of careers.

• Our modules address critical sustainability challenges: reducing risk from natural hazards, harnessing cleaner energy sources and how to combat climate and environmental change.

• Our approachable staff share their cutting-edge research and expertise through varied teaching practices in lectures, tutorials, practical classes and field courses.

• Learn to apply the latest techniques in the field and laboratory. Our substantial fieldwork programme provides opportunities in a variety of UK and overseas locations including Death Valley USA, Spain and Sicily.

• Study modules addressing the connection between physical geography and geology, such as ‘long-term landscape development’.

• Improve your skills in our open access laboratory, LABplus.

• Develop your confidence with your personal tutor, providing you with regular guidance throughout your degree.

• Get support from students in the year ahead via our PALS mentoring scheme.

• Live and study close to the sea, Dartmoor and two geological UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Receive essential field safety equipment free as part of your welcome package.

• Work towards becoming a Chartered Geologist, our accreditation by the Geological Society, the world’s oldest and most prestigious national learned society for geology, helps you to gain the required experience.

• Take the opportunity to spend your second year studying abroad in Europe, Canada, Australia, USA or elsewhere through our bilateral and ISEP exchange programmes.

• In your first year, you'll build a foundation in physical geography and geology to understand mineral- and rock-forming processes. Core modules include Earth history and structure, the fossil record, biogeography, geomorphology, and surface processes. Laboratory classes will help you develop a range of key analytical skills and you’ll acquire essential field skills in the diverse landscapes of south-west England.

• In your second year, you’ll study Earth surface systems and a range of techniques and methods in physical geography and geology - developing your field skills in the dramatic environments of the Spanish Pyrenees. Core geological modules and the specialist long term landscape evolution module build on knowledge developed in your first year, while a range of physical geography options allow you to develop your physical geography knowledge in areas that interest you. You can choose to develop your skills further by applying to spend this year studying abroad in Canada, Australia, USA or Europe.

• Take advantage of our optional placement year, giving you the opportunity to develop your geological skills in the workplace and gain valuable experience. Find your perfect placement with the help of our employability service and benefit from specialist workshops and tutorials in your second year, helping you prepare for your year in industry.

• In your final year, you will undertake an independent field- or laboratory-based project for your honours dissertation, which is supported by a programme of professional skills development. You’ll also develop specialist knowledge and skills through a wide range of final year option modules spanning the spectrum of geology and physical geology. Develop advanced field skills during a field course in the Pacific Northwest of the USA, Sicily or Death Valley (USA).