BSc (Hons) Geology

To find solutions to some of the biggest problems facing our planet today we need to understand the Earth’s history and processes. Geologists study the minerals and rocks that form the solid Earth, the processes that occur on and within our planet, and the evolution of life on its surface. They use their knowledge of past climates and hazards to understand and address the challenges we face from issues like climate change and natural disasters.On our Geology course you will explore how rocks and minerals are formed, how animals evolve over geological time, what causes earthquakes and volcanoes and how the science of Geology impacts our lives today. You will develop skills in fieldwork, data capture, analysis and confident decision making.We’ve worked with industry to design our degree so you graduate with the specialist skills needed to be a professional geologist.We make the most of our location and take regular field trips in South Wales to explore how geology impacts the landscapes and the industry of the region. There will also be opportunities to do overseas trips, in the past we’ve been to Spain and Cyprus.Learning and assessmentWe are a friendly and informal school and you will be supported and taught by world-leading experts involved in cutting-edge international research.Our teaching approach is a mix of theory and practical and includes: lectures, laboratory work, fieldwork, tutorials, workshops and seminars. You will also be encouraged to learn independently throughout the course. We encourage you to think creatively and to reach conclusions from incomplete data which is a skill valued highly in sectors such as insurance, civil engineering and consulting.Career prospectsGeologists play a central role in society today. We need geology to locate sustainable sources of water, energy and minerals, to recognise and mitigate hazards, and to assess land for constructing roads or buildings.With a geology degree, you can choose to work in a variety of different roles including an engineering geologist, a hydrogeologist, a mineralogist, and an environmental consultant. You will also have essential employable skills that sectors like insurance, finance, education and planning are looking for.Some of our past students now work for the British Geological Survey, the Environment Agency, Digirock, Boliden Mining, Network Rail, Balfour Beatty and the engineering and mining consultancy Royal HaskoningDHV.