Geology - MSci

Cardiff University

To find solutions to some of the biggest problems facing our planet today we need to understand the Earth’s history and processes. Geologists 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 geology impacts on our lives today. You will develop skills in fieldwork, data capture, analysis and confident decision making. Our Masters degrees involve a fourth year of study where you work on an exploration research project with an academic from the School. You will develop advanced skills in research and get experience of scientific writing and presentation at a professional level.We make the most of our location and take regular field trips in South Wales to explore how geology impacts on the landscapes and the industry of the region. There will also be an opportunity to do an overseas trip. In the past we’ve been to Spain and Cyprus.We’ve worked with industry to design our degree so you graduate with the specialist skills needed to be a professional geologist.You don’t need to have studied Geology already as we’ll be starting year one with the basic principles to bring everyone to the same level.**Distinctive Features of the Programme**- Professional accreditation - our Geology degree is accredited by the Geological Society, the professional body for geosciences in the UK. This accreditation keeps us connected to industry and allows our graduates to become chartered Geologists. - Flexible degree schemes - most of the School’s degrees have a common first semester that introduce you to geosciences and geography. You can then decide whether to stay with your chosen degree or switch to another in the same School. BSc Geology students also have the most flexibility in years two and three with a range of optional modules to choose from. You don’t need to commit to a university abroad until your second year, so there’s plenty of time to consider your options and decide where you would like to explore.- Hands-on fieldwork - you will get plenty of opportunity to develop your fieldwork skills with day and residential trips. South Wales has a diverse geological history and there are lots of outstanding natural landscapes for us to explore. - World leading experts and facilities – you will be taught by world-leading earth scientists and have access to the latest technologies and training for surveying and mapping geological features. - Access to the British Geological Survey and National Museum of Wales - our school is in the same building as the Welsh office of the British Geological Survey and next door to the National Museum of Wales. We use the exhibition galleries of the National Museum and material from its collections to enhance our teaching. The British Geological Survey Wales also provide ideas for student projects and advice on professional skills and careers.

School of Earth and Environmental Sciences