BSc (Hons) Geography and Geology

Develop your knowledge and understanding of the role of geography and geological science in shaping the Earth on a degree which involves travel to a variety of fieldwork destinations in the UK and abroad.

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    • Studying Abroad Option Available
    • Sandwich Year Option Available
    • International Students Can Apply
    • Fieldwork

    Overview

    UCAS Code: FF68
    Course Length: 3 Years Full-Time
    Start Dates: September 2020, September 2021
    Subjects: Geography and Geology
    Location: Edge Hill University
    Example Offers: BBC-BBB (A Level) or DMM (BTEC)
    View full entry criteria

    This degree will enable you to learn about our natural world, balancing the present-day study of physical geography with the geological dimension of how the earth has evolved through time. You will gain skills in the fundamental techniques of both physical geography and geology, with a strong emphasis on practical field and laboratory work. With current fieldwork locations including Cumbria, Anglesey, Ireland, Tenerife and the Scottish Highlands, the course is underpinned by an exploration of the geological features of rivers, oceans and volcanoes, both as they are now and as they were in the geological past. In combination, these investigations will provide a unique perspective on our planet and how it changes.

    Student and Alumni Profiles

    • Rachel Gilks

      BSc (Hons) Physical Geography and Geology
      Within the Geography Department the lecturer to student ratio is brilliant and it was a relief to know that I wouldn't just disappear into the crowd.
       View full profile

    • Andy Smith

      BSc (Hons) Physical Geography and Geology
      I have had so many positive experiences and learnt so much during my time at Edge Hill.
       View full profile
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    In Depth

    What will I study?

    Year 1 provides a foundation in the sciences of physical geography and geology, including training in key laboratory techniques. This is supported by two periods of residential fieldwork, during which you will be trained in fundamental and applied fieldwork skills.

    In Year 2 you will study topics such as the geological forms and processes associated with igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary geology and geological mapping. Physical geography modules will cover the earth’s weather and climate systems, soils and geomorphology. You will also enhance and further develop essential research skills in physical geography and geology through laboratory work and local and overseas fieldwork.

    Year 3 involves completing an independent research project (dissertation) on a geological topic, alongside specialist modules on fluvial and coastal geomorphology, and applied environmental and engineering geology. You will have the opportunity to choose modules on wetlands, natural hazards, and the nature and causes of environmental change.

    How will I study?

    Teaching is through fieldwork, laboratory and practical activities, lectures, tutorials, dissertation supervision and directed independent learning. We place an emphasis on strengthening the employability potential of our graduates through the acquisition of a range of subject-specific, key and career management skills, as well as the development of knowledge and understanding.

    Fieldwork in the UK and abroad is one of the most beneficial and enjoyable aspects of this degree. Current fieldwork locations include Cumbria, Anglesey, Ireland, Tenerife and the Scottish Highlands. You will also visit local sites.

    How will I be assessed?

    Methods of assessment display your knowledge and understanding and develop and demonstrate your competence in subject-specific and key skills. All modules are assessed by either coursework only or a mixture of coursework and examination. Exams never count for more than 60% of the total mark for those modules that include an examination. Coursework includes practical portfolios, essays, project reports, field notebooks, individual and group oral presentations and poster presentations.

    Who will be teaching me?

    We have experienced and knowledgeable staff who take pride in the quality of their teaching. All staff are research active which means that they keep up-to-date with the latest developments in their areas of interest and pass this knowledge on. We are not a large department so you won’t get lost in the crowd.

    A Great Study Environment

    Five students walk near the Geosciences building on campus.The Department of Geography and Geology’s modern and wide-ranging facilities combine with a friendly and supportive learning environment to ensure that your studies are a rich and rewarding experience.

    The Geosciences building features a large lecture theatre, small group teaching rooms, physical geography and environmental science laboratories, a geology laboratory, a geo-engineering laboratory, geo-information laboratories and a large social area.

    Modules

    Expand All

    Year 1

    GEO1045Introducing Physical Geographies (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 60%, Written Exam(s): 40%.

    GEO1046Environmental Issues (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    GEO1047Practical Skills for Geography and Environmental Science (20 credits)

    Practical Skills for Geography and Environmental Science is a skills-based module, using geographical knowledge to develop a range of subject-specific skills together with general use of ICT and communication skills. The module focuses on the handling, analysis and communication of spatial and graphical data. You will be introduced to the principles, uses and practical skills of Geographical Information Systems as part of the module.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    GEO1240Rocks, Minerals and Fossils (20 credits)

    Rocks, Minerals and Fossils enables you to appreciate the origin, composition, dynamics and history of the earth as a planet. The module will show plate tectonics as a unifying concept in the geological sciences, illustrating the composition and formation of major mineral and rock groups and equipping you with the skills and knowledge required to describe, identify and classify marine and terrestrial fossils.


    Assessment: Coursework: 50%, Written Exam(s): 50%.

    GEO1241Geological Research Methods 1 (20 credits)

    Geological Research Methods 1 provides an overview of a range of field and laboratory geological techniques covering the breadth of knowledge and skills that a geologist in training needs to successfully study and practise geology at more advanced levels. The module will guide you in recording basic geological information in the field and in the laboratory. You will learn how to communicate field information in an appropriate and scientific manner, discover how to recognise the form and function of basic geological maps and deduce aspects of Earth history from them.


    Assessment: Coursework: 75%, Written Exam(s): 25%.

    GEO1242Earth History (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 40%, Written Exam(s): 60%.

    Year 2

    GEO2071Research Methods for Physical Geography and Environmental Science (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    GEO2075Geomorphology (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 60%, Written Exam(s): 40%.

    GEO2077Weather, Climate and Soils (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    GEO2241Sediments and the Biosphere (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 60%, Written Exam(s): 40%.

    GEO2242Geological Research Methods (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    GEO2244Igneous and Metamorphic Petrology (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 60%, Written Exam(s): 40%.

    Year 3

    GEO3075Rivers and Coasts (20 credits)

    Rivers and Coasts immerses you in the advanced study of fluvial and coastal landscapes. The module draws on geomorphological, environmental and management issues in rivers and coastlines in the UK and around the world, with particular emphasis on fluvial/coastal processes and resources. The impact of management strategies and climate change on fluvial and coastal landscapes will also be explored. The module considers key theories on fluvial and coastal geomorphology, examines recent papers in each topic area and explores some of the techniques and instrumentation in modern research. A number of examples will be drawn from research in the North West of England and other areas of the UK.


    Assessment: Coursework: 60%, Written Exam(s): 40%.

    GEO3083Dissertation in Geology (40 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 90%, Practical(s): 10%.

    GEO3241Geoenvironmental Engineering (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 50%, Written Exam(s): 50%.

    You will select two of the following modules:

    GEO3071Natural Hazards (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    GEO3073Environmental Change (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 100%.

    GEO3077Wetlands (20 credits)

    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.


    Assessment: Coursework: 60%, Written Exam(s): 40%.

    Optional modules provide an element of choice within the programme curriculum. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by timetabling requirements.

    Timetables

    Timetables for your first week are normally available at the end of August prior to enrolment in September. You can expect to receive your timetable for the rest of the academic year during your first week. Please note that while we make every effort to ensure that timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled teaching can take place on any day of the week. Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities.

    Disclaimer

    Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information, however our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may necessitate alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses.

    Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies, revisions to subject benchmarks statements, to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.

    Entry Criteria

    Entry Requirements

    Typical offer 112-120 UCAS Tariff points, including Geography, Geology, Environmental Science or a related subject. GCSE Mathematics at Grade C or Grade 4 or above, or Adult Numeracy at Level 2 or above, or equivalent, is also required.

    Example Offers

    Some examples of how you can achieve 112-120 UCAS Tariff points are detailed below.

    • A Level: BBC-BBB;
    • BTEC Extended Diploma (or combination of BTEC QCF qualifications): Distinction, Merit, Merit (DMM);
    • International Baccalaureate (IB): We are happy to accept IB qualifications which achieve the required number of UCAS Tariff points. Subject-specific requirements at Higher Level (HL) Grade 5 may apply;
    • Access to Higher Education Diploma: 45 credits at Level 3, for example 15 credits at Distinction and 30 credits at Merit or 24 credits at Distinction and 21 credits at Merit. The required total can be attained from various credit combinations.

    Please note, the above examples may differ from actual offers made. A combination of A Level and BTEC awards may also be accepted.

    As long as you have a minimum of two A Levels (or equivalent), there is no maximum number of qualifications that we will accept UCAS points from. This includes additional qualifications such as the Welsh Baccalaureate and Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), AS Levels that haven’t been continued to A Level, and General Studies AS or A Level awards.

    For further information on how you can meet the entry requirements, including details of alternative qualifications, please visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/offers.

    EU students can get country-specific information about the University’s entry requirements and equivalent national qualifications at www.edgehill.ac.uk/eu.

    International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international for information on the entry criteria for overseas applicants.

    English Language Requirements

    International students require IELTS 6.0, with a score no lower than 5.5 in each individual component, or an equivalent English language qualification.

    If your current level of English is half a band lower, either overall or in one or two elements, you may want to consider our Pre-Sessional English course.

    Are there any alternative ways to meet the entry requirements?

    If you have the ability to study for a degree but lack the necessary qualifications or confidence, our Fastrack: Preparation for Higher Education course could be for you. This free, seven-week programme provides a great opportunity to enhance your study skills and subject knowledge and demonstrate that you are ready to study a particular subject with us, in lieu of achieving the UCAS Tariff points in the entry criteria.

    Upon successful completion of a Fastrack course, you will be well placed to progress onto a corresponding Edge Hill University degree, although additional entry requirements may apply and the availability of specific programmes cannot be guaranteed. For more information, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/fastrack.

    Recognition of Prior Learning

    Edge Hill University recognises learning gained elsewhere, whether through academic credit and qualifications acquired from other relevant courses of study or through recognition of an individual’s professional and employment experience (also referred to as ‘experiential learning’). This may include credit or learning undertaken at another university.

    Previous learning that is recognised in this way may be used towards meeting the entry requirements for a programme and/or for exemption from part of a programme. It is your responsibility to make a claim for recognition of prior learning. For guidance, please consult the University’s academic regulations (sections C7 and F3.1) or contact the faculty in which you are interested in studying.

    Career Prospects

    What are my career prospects?

    A Geography and Geology degree is recognised by employers for the extensive range of transferable skills that graduates have including IT and communication skills, project management, report writing, statistical analysis, group work and oral presentation skills. These skills are of great value to them and to you in your career.

    Graduates find their way into a variety of careers including industry, geological exploration, environmental management, planning, environmental monitoring and consultancy, the extractive and waste industries, conservation, environmental education, postgraduate study, teaching (further training required) and research.

    How can I enhance my employability?

    It is useful to consider, even before you apply, how you will spend your time while studying and make the most of your university experience.

    Optional, additional activities may be available on this degree which could help to prepare you for a stimulating and rewarding career. These include:

    • Sandwich Years – you may have the opportunity to apply to complete a sandwich year placement, usually as the third year of a four year degree, and gain highly relevant work experience;
    • Erasmus+ and Study Abroad – you may have the opportunity to apply to spend time studying or working abroad, usually as the third year of a four year degree, enabling you to immerse yourself in a different culture;
    • Learning a Language – you may be able to participate in Language Steps classes, delivered at the Edge Hill Language Centre, as additional study.

    Please note, the availability of these additional activities cannot be guaranteed for all students. Depending on availability and the number of students wanting to participate, there may be a competitive application process for sandwich year placements or studying abroad opportunities or you may be required to secure a relevant placement yourself.

    Finance

    Tuition Fees

    If you are a prospective UK or EU student who will be joining this undergraduate degree in academic year 2020/21, the tuition fee will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students enrolling on the programme in academic year 2020/21 are £12,250 per annum.

    The University may administer a small inflationary rise in tuition fees, in line with Government policy, in subsequent academic years as you progress through the course.

    Financial Support

    Subject to eligibility, UK and EU students joining this undergraduate degree can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan from the Government to cover the full cost of tuition fees. UK and EU students enrolling on the programme may also be eligible to apply for additional funding to help with living costs.

    For comprehensive information about the financial support available to eligible UK and EU students joining this programme in academic year 2020/21, together with details of how to apply for potential funding, please view our Money Matters 2020/21 guide at www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfinance2020.

    Financial support information for international students can be found at www.edgehill.ac.uk/international/fees.

    Scholarships

    Ten scholarship winners sitting together in a lecture theatre at the Scholarship Awards Evening.Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships with a competitive application process for prospective full-time undergraduate students.

    These scholarships aren’t linked to academic success and celebrate determination, talent and achievement beyond your coursework, for instance in creativity, enterprise, ICT, performance, sport or volunteering.

    An additional scholarship, which you may qualify to receive, rewards outstanding grades and is available to eligible UK and EU students.

    To find out more about scholarships, to assess your eligibility, and to meet some of our dedicated scholarship winners, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships.

    Apply

    How to Apply

    Apply online through UCAS at www.ucas.com.

    Visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyucas to find out more about the application process.

    Further information for international students about how to apply is available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/applyinternational.

    Should you accept an offer of a place to study with us and formally enrol as a student, you will be subject to the provisions of the regulations, rules, codes, conditions and policies which apply to our students. These are available at www.edgehill.ac.uk/studentterms.

    Visit Us

    If you are considering applying to study at Edge Hill University, the best way to gain an insight into student life is to discover our stunning campus for yourself by attending an open day. You can view dates and book your place at www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays.

    Alternatively, if you are unable to attend an open day, you can find out more about all of our events for prospective students, including monthly campus tours, at www.edgehill.ac.uk/visitus.

    Request a Prospectus

    If you would like to explore our full range of degrees before you apply, you can order an undergraduate prospectus at www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradprospectus.

    Get in Touch

    If you have any questions about this programme or what it’s like to study at Edge Hill University, please contact:

    International students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk with any queries about overseas study.

    Course Changes

    Expand All This page outlines any material changes to course content, programme structure, assessment methods, entry criteria, and modes of study or delivery, implemented in the past two years.

    28th February 2020 - Withdrawal of Module

    GEO3242 Geoenvironmental Management (20 credits) removed as an optional module in Year 3.

    17th September 2019 - Change of Modules

    GEO1240 Rocks, Minerals and Fossils (20 credits) and GEO1241 Geological Research Methods (20 credits) replace GEO1050 Dynamic Earth (20 credits) and GEO1052 Earth Materials (20 credits) as compulsory modules in Year 1.

    GEO3242 Geoenvironmental Management added as an optional module in Year 3.

    17th September 2019 - Change of Course Title

    The course title changes from BSc (Hons) Physical Geography and Geology to BSc (Hons) Geography and Geology with effect from September 2020 entry.

    22nd January 2019 - Change to Entry Requirements

    112-120 UCAS Tariff points are required to join this programme with effect from September 2020 entry.

    15th January 2019 - Change of Modules

    GEO1050 Dynamic Earth (20 credits) and GEO1052 Earth Materials (20 credits) replace GEO1240 Rock, Minerals and Fossils (20 credits) and GEO1241 Geological Research Methods (20 credits) as compulsory modules in Year 1.