Integrated Foundation - Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Earth Sciences

The BSc (Hons) Earth Sciences with Foundation Year focuses on the vital role of Earth sciences in supporting the sustainable future of the planet and society through the development of knowledge in areas such as natural hazards, sustainable development, climate change, energy and natural resources. This dynamic geoscience programme is inherently multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary, combining scientific study with humanity-based disciplines including biology, chemistry, geography, geology, informatics, natural and environmental sciences, geological sciences and physics.

The course places strong emphasis on practical investigation, encouraging an appreciation of processes operating at a range of scales while considering their wider societal context and complex interrelationships. It develops understanding of natural and environmental hazards, their management and mitigation, and adaptation to challenges such as climate change, volcanic eruptions, flooding and earthquakes. Studies include ore geology and mineralogy, with training in observing, describing and interpreting minerals, rocks (including sedimentary and igneous types), fossils and geological structures through fieldwork, hand specimens and optical microscopy. The programme also explores approaches to achieving a sustainable net zero carbon future, including carbon sequestration, green technologies and renewable energy.

Graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of how the Earth works, alongside knowledge of how the Earth and other planetary bodies in the solar system formed and evolved through the study of planetary science. The degree builds insight into the Earth’s structure, the interactions between the Earth, atmosphere, biosphere and hydrosphere, and the chemical, physical and biological processes that govern these systems. This foundation equips graduates with the knowledge and skills required to address major contemporary and future societal challenges, including sustainable energy supply, sourcing minerals for green technologies, sustainable urban development, clean and secure water resources, and natural hazard management and mitigation.