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Introducing BSc Earth Science and Physical Geography
If you want to help tackle the greatest challenges facing society and the natural world, this degree is for you.
The world needs geographers and Earth scientists now more than ever before.
For example, we need them to:
- help us address the climate crisis
- adapt to environmental changes
- live more safely and sustainably on our dynamic Earth
Our degree will help you play a valuable role in addressing global challenges facing our planet and society.
What will I learn?
The Bachelor of Science (BSc) Earth Science and Physical Geography allows you to combine your understanding of both physical geography and Earth processes to address global challenges.
It balances data science, programming, and computing skills with traditional field and laboratory skills, along with a knowledge of geography and Earth science.
You will learn about:
- the structure and composition of the Earth
- the deep-Earth processes that shape the Earth's surface and impact the landscape
- the associated hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and landslides
We will build on this knowledge to explore how oceans, rivers, glaciers, and human impact define the modern and ancient landscape. We will also explore how these processes, impact society.
This understanding is important for leading research on global change and many of the world's physical environmental challenges.
We have a hands-on approach to learning, so you can develop valuable practical skills. Many of your activities are similar to what professionals do in the real world. We will also teach you computational analysis and quantitative skills.
You will learn from leading national and international geographers and Earth scientists across a range of fields. We help make sure your degree has real-world relevance and makes you highly employable.
Our links also give you valuable networking and potential employment opportunities. You will be able to meet and interact with professionals from different sectors throughout your studies. You will also have the opportunity to work with practitioners and industry experts to gain valuable experience.
This degree offers you flexibility in your studies of a wide range of interests across geography and the Earth sciences. You will be able to build your degree around topics you are curious or passionate about.
For example, you may enjoy:
- studying the Earth sciences but want greater flexibility in your honours years, or
- studying physical geography, but also want a deeper understanding of how the Earth works
An extraordinary reputation
We are one of the largest and most successful groupings of geographers, Earth and environmental scientists in the UK. Many of us are world experts in our field.
- We have pioneered research proving human-caused greenhouse gasses are warming our planet, which helped underpin the 2015 Paris Agreement.
- We are working with major space agencies to monitor the environment using satellite data.
- We are 22nd in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
- We are ranked in the world's top 50 universities for natural sciences subjects, and 4th in the UK. Across Earth and marine sciences, environmental sciences, geology, geography and geophysics, we are ranked top 10 in the UK (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024).
Our staff will include the latest research in your teaching, and share our discoveries with you.
Video: Earth sciences and environment
Life-changing field trips
Field trips are at the heart of this programme.
We know that getting out in the world is essential for understanding how it works.
We will take you beyond the classroom so that you can apply your learning to real-life situations.
For example, you could be:
- photographing rugged coastlines and cliffs with airborne drones
- visiting worksites to meet Earth science professionals and find out what they do
- hunting for fossils and chatting with your professor about their work on the latest Jurassic World film
- surrounded by Scotland’s glorious mountains, gathering evidence to unravel its unique geological history
- exploring the impact of climate, tectonics and sea-level change on the landscape of Spain
What do you do on a field trip?
Our field courses and day excursions are hard work and fun. Often, they will provide some of your most memorable moments.
Our hands-on approach to learning helps build your confidence and practical experience. It also gives you field skills valued by employers.
For example:
- drawing 3D geological maps
- documenting and analysing the types of rocks within an outcrop
- learning to read and map a landscape, to understand the geological and geomorphological history
- measuring glacier and river erosion and deposition
We work with a wide network of geographers and Earth science professionals in different sectors. We will arrange meetings with them at their work sites during our trips.
Our trips also help you to experience working with different types of field equipment, which will help you develop practical skills. We have a range of tools and high-tech equipment to take field measurements.
A dynamic learning experience
Your training culminates in the opportunity to do your own independent research project. An experienced academic will supervise and support you through your work.
Field experiences will help create a sense of community in your cohort. You will take part in a dynamic learning experience through peer learning where knowledge, ideas, and discoveries thrive.
We sometimes also combine students from other related degrees. Working on multidisciplinary problems prepares you for the real world, where collaborative solutions are important for solving local and global challenges.
The locations and experiences of each trip will vary. We want to give you a broad understanding of how the world works. Our goal is to reduce our carbon footprint while providing you with the best training opportunities.
Our compulsory field trips or field courses are free, including travel and accommodation.
To make sure our degrees are accessible and inclusive, we offer alternative learning experiences where necessary.
You can find our blog posts and videos about fieldwork experiences on the School of GeoSciences website.
Edinburgh is your ideal base
Edinburgh is ranked 2nd in the UK and 16th in the world in the QS Best Student Cities 2024. Our vibrant capital is a blend of history and modern city life.
Edinburgh is not only a fantastic city to live in; it is also the perfect location to study geography and the Earth sciences. Did you know that Edinburgh is the 'birthplace' of modern geology and Earth sciences?
An ancient volcano known as 'Arthur's Seat' forms part of a magnificent park in the middle of our city. And superb geological locations are right on our doorstep, providing you with world-class outdoor training grounds. Many of these sites are of scientific importance. For example, the world-famous "Hutton's Unconformity" at Siccar Point is just a short trip away.
We will help you make the most of our local surroundings throughout your studies.
Immerse yourself among rugged coastlines, misty mountains, forest glens and sparkling freshwater lochs.
What is it really like to study with us?
No one knows what it is like to study here better than the students themselves.
Our students are sharing their experiences - from studying to living in Edinburgh and everything in between.
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