Contemporary Geographical Skills is a skills-based module that uses geographical knowledge to develop a range of subject-specific skills together with key transferable skills in ICT and communication. The module focuses on the handling, analysis and communication of spatial and graphical data. Core elements of contemporary geographical and environmental practice are the ability to handle, analyse and communicate spatial and graphical data. You will be introduced to the principles, uses and practical skills of geographical information systems (GIS), digital cartography and graphical software packages. You will also begin to develop a personal development portfolio.

Dynamic Earth provides a broad overview of, and introduction to, the science of geology. The module will describe the Earth as a dynamic system, and explain how that system has operated throughout the history of the planet. It will introduce the formation of the Earth, the concept of geological time, and the major processes operating on Earth, from plate tectonics to ocean circulation, evolution and geochemical cycles.

Earth History enables you to appreciate geological time. In particular, the module will look at the evolution of the earth from both a global perspective as well as the development of the British Isles. You will examine the beginning of the solar system and the theories behind the origin of the earth and the moon. The early conditions of earth’s history will also be examined by considering the early continental crust, the likely nature of plate tectonics and the origin of the atmosphere and hydrosphere. The rise of modern style plate tectonics, the origin of life and the rise of atmospheric oxygen will be introduced alongside changes in the oceans and evolution of the earth’s climate. Major episodes such as “Snowball and Greenhouse Earth” along with asteroid impacts, mass extinctions and super-massive volcanic eruptions will be outlined.

Earth Materials introduces you to a range of field and laboratory geological techniques covering the range of knowledge and skills that a geologist in training will need to successfully study and practise geology at more advanced levels. The module illustrates the composition and formation of major mineral and rock groups and will enable you to identify and classify marine and terrestrial fossils.

Environmental Issues provides an awareness and understanding of the nature of environmental issues facing the world today. Issues such as climatic change, water quality, flooding, biodiversity loss and human vulnerability to natural hazards will be considered. Through case studies, the physical processes underlying the issues will be explained together with an evaluation of management responses.

Introducing Physical Geographies provides an overview of physical geography which looks at basic concepts and their development. The module outlines the physical framework of the earth’s surface and investigates the materials and processes operating there. It covers aspects of biogeography, soils, climatology and geomorphology.

Geological Research Methods is about the application of knowledge in geology. The module will introduce you to independent field working and develop geological field mapping skills in complex terranes. Your field work understanding will be assisted by the use of digital geological techniques, in particular the use of vector graphic drawing packages and ArcGIS. Rock mass properties using the engineering laboratory will be introduced to provide a wider perspective and you will consider how they might be used in geological fieldwork.

Geomorphology introduces you to the study of geomorphological processes and the landforms they produce in a range of earth surface environments. The module will outline important concepts for understanding the relationships between processes and landforms. You will study the linkages between landforms and processes in a selection of earth surface environments such as coastal, fluvial, desert and glacial. You will also be introduced to the identification of landforms and the observation of processes through work in the field and laboratory.

Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology advances your knowledge and understanding, as well as presenting contemporary reviews, of current ideas and controversies surrounding the geological forms and processes associated with igneous and metamorphic geology/petrology. An understanding of  igneous and metamorphic geology is crucial to the earth sciences because of the interactive nature of earth’s systems. An understanding and recognition of igneous and metamorphic rocks and related processes is a paramount requirement of a practising geoscientist.

Research Methods for Physical Geography and Environmental Science uses investigative research processes to enhance and develop your knowledge and understanding of essential research methods in physical geographical and environmental science.

Sediments and the Biosphere investigates sedimentary processes and products, as well as the interaction of the biosphere with sediments and sedimentary rocks, across a range of environments past and present. A range of techniques for examining and describing sediments, sedimentary rocks and elements of the biosphere will be introduced. This includes hand specimen and microscope analysis and field data recording. You will explore the use of these techniques in interpreting modern and ancient sedimentary environments and environmental change.

Weather, Climate and Soils provides you with a detailed understanding of the climate system and the soil system. The module covers a range of atmospheric processes through to the development of weather systems, with a specific focus on mid-latitude weather. The varying nature and properties of soils, and the soil processes which give rise to soil formation and development are then considered. You will receive practical training in the analysis and interpretation of meteorological data as well as being guided in the methods used in the field and laboratory analysis of soils.

Dissertation in Geology enables you to develop and apply a range of research and transferable skills in the planning, execution and reporting of an individual research project on a relevant topic in geology of your choice. The module provides you with the opportunity to demonstrate the ability to work independently and effectively, meeting deadlines and producing a professional product, in consultation with a supervisor.

Geoenvironmental Engineering prepares you to apply earth science principles to the exploration, extraction and management of construction mineral resources. The module also provides an introduction to the principles and practice of engineering geology associated with mineral operations.

Environmental Hydrology and Flood Management provides an understanding of input, storage and output processes within the catchment unit in the hydrological cycle. The module will develop knowledge and experience of the measurement, analysis and simulation techniques available to the modern hydrologist. You will gain an holistic appreciation of flood estimation and modelling techniques, in addition to river catchment and flood risk management, in the context of extant policies, legislation and planning.

Environmental Change develops your knowledge and understanding of the nature of environmental change from the last glacial period to the recent past. You will examine the evidence for change, consider potential causes, and analyse the spatial and temporal responses.  The module explores the major changes of the Late Glacial, Holocene and recent periods and examines the relative contributions of forcing factors, such as climatic variability and anthropogenic activity. In addition, the module critically considers the techniques and methodologies used in the reconstruction of environmental change.

Geoenvironmental Management focuses on real-world environmental problems faced by environmental specialists relating to mineral planning issues, the reduction or management of construction waste, waste disposal facilities, cleanup of contaminated sites, UK geohazards, superficial and man-made ground and the conservation of geodiversity.

Natural Hazards identifies the nature of geohazards and the relationships between hazards and risk to people. The module investigates the distribution, causes and management of a range of major geohazards. It will enable you to demonstrate your ability to research and evaluate information on geohazards both on an individual basis and in a group scenario.

Wetlands explores the largest terrestrial carbon store; wetlands. The module studies the flora and fauna that have adapted to and formed these environments. You will examine the sensitivity of these environments to climate change and analyse the historic, current and future management strategies required to preserve these ecosystems.

GEO3088 Environmental Hydrology and Flood Management (20 credits) replaces GEO3075 Rivers and Coasts (20 credits) as a compulsory module in Year 3.

GEO1054 Contemporary Geographical Skills (20 credits) replaces GEO1047 Practical Skills for Geography and Environmental Science (20 credits) as a compulsory module in Year 1.

GEO1050 Dynamic Earth (20 credits) and GEO1052 Earth Materials (20 credits) replace GEO1240 Rocks, Minerals and Fossils (20 credits) and GEO1242 Earth History (20 credits) as compulsory modules in Year 1.