Geochemistry (MSc)

Geochemistry is critical to quantifying the mechanisms, rates and sources behind every aspect of the Earth system. The MSc in Geochemistry at the University of St Andrews is the only such course in the UK and will provide you with specialist knowledge and skills in modern geochemical methods, transferrable to a wide variety of geoscience and environmental science careers, including further PhD research. The course involves hands-on laboratory and field training, and experience with state-of-the-art equipment.

Entry requirements

The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.

Application requirements

• CV or résumé
• personal statement
• two original signed academic references
• academic transcripts and degree certificates.

For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.

English language proficiency

If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.

After your degree

Careers

The range of research areas and applications of Geochemistry is so broad that career opportunities span the whole of Earth and Environmental Sciences.

Masters-level training in Geochemistry would provide a suitable platform for a career in materials science outside of Earth and Environmental Sciences specifically. 

Geochemists with MSc degrees from St Andrews are currently employed in: 

• the energy sector (hydrocarbon industries, petrochemicals, nuclear and renewables) 
• mining and mineral exploration, extraction and processing 
• environmental industries and agencies focused on pollution monitoring and environmental remediation 
• universities as laboratory technicians running equipment and supporting high-quality data production for research projects. 

The Careers Centre offers one-to-one advice to all students as well as a programme of events to assist students in building their employability skills.

Further study

This comprehensive and rigorous course provides relevant preparation for pursuing a PhD in Geochemistry by incorporating a lab-based research dissertation. Many graduates continue their education by enrolling in PhD programmes at St Andrews or elsewhere.