Program Overview
The Geology BSc program at the University of Leeds delves into the Earth's system, fostering a deep understanding of geological processes and their role in addressing modern challenges. Emphasizing fieldwork and research-led teaching, it equips students for careers in resource exploration, natural hazard mitigation, energy security, and other geology-related fields. Accredited by the Geological Society, the program provides a pathway to becoming a Chartered Geologist.
Program Outline
The program emphasizes the role of geologists in addressing modern global challenges, particularly in the context of a low-carbon future. It highlights the increasing demand for geologists across various sectors, including resource exploration, civil engineering, natural hazard mitigation, energy security, and fundamental scientific research. The program emphasizes fieldwork as an integral part of learning, with students visiting various geological locations in the UK and beyond. It boasts a faculty with expertise across the spectrum of geoscience disciplines, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
Key Objectives:
- Develop a deep understanding of the Earth system and its geological processes.
- Develop skills in observation, analysis, and independent working.
- Prepare students for careers in various sectors where geological expertise is crucial.
Outline:
The Geology BSc program is a three-year full-time program with a multidisciplinary approach, covering a wide range of geological topics. The program structure is as follows:
Year 1:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Solid Planet: Introduces the identification and characterization of rocks, minerals, and sedimentary deposits.
- Earth Surface Processes: Explores the processes that shape Earth's topography, including weathering, erosion, and deposition.
- Dynamic Planet: Focuses on plate tectonics and the history of global change recorded in the Earth's crust.
- Living Earth: Examines the origin and evolution of life on Earth and its influence on geological processes.
- Skills for Geoscientists: Develops essential skills in data collection, analysis, and evaluation.
- Optional Modules:
- Natural Hazards
- Vertebrate Evolution
- Foundation Chemistry
- Foundation Mathematics
- Foundation Physics
- Atmosphere
Year 2:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Petrology and Geochemistry: Explores the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks and minerals.
- Palaeoenvironmental Analysis: Examines the use of sedimentological, geochemical, and palaeontological principles in analyzing sedimentary environments.
- Investigating the Shallow Subsurface: Covers fundamental concepts and models related to processes in the shallow subsurface.
- Advanced Skills for Geologists: Provides specialist training in computer programming and data analysis.
- Global Tectonics: Explores the origin and characteristics of deformation in the Earth.
- Sedimentary Basins and Resources: Focuses on the tectonic and structural evolution of sedimentary basins and their resource potential.
- Resources from Rocks and Minerals: Introduces the formation and exploitation of economic geological deposits.
- Optional Modules:
- Sedimentary Basins and Resources
- Resources from Rocks and Minerals
Year 3:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Independent Field Project: Involves independent fieldwork and the production of a dissertation.
- Frontiers in Geological Sciences: Provides an overview of contemporary theories and debates in the geosciences.
- Geological Field Class: Undertakes geological fieldwork, typically on the island of Cyprus.
- Optional Modules:
- Past Global Environmental Systems
- Environmental Geomorphology and Sedimentology
- Engineering Geology
- Volcanic Processes
- Groundwater
- Ore Deposits and their Exploitation
- Plate Tectonics and Geodynamics
- Earth System Science: Biogeochemical Cycles
- Earthquakes, Fluids, and Geosolutions
- Strategic Energy Issues
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary across modules and include:
- Coursework: Essays, reports, presentations, practical assignments, and data analysis.
- Exams: Written examinations covering theoretical concepts and practical applications.
- Fieldwork: Data collection, analysis, and report writing based on fieldwork experiences.
- Dissertation: An independent research project culminating in a detailed report, geological map, and cross-section.
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Practicals
- Workshops
- Seminars
- Skills classes
- Field trips
- Small group academic tutorials
- Faculty:
- Expert academics, including lecturers and professors.
- Industry professionals with extensive experience.
- Trained postgraduate researchers.
- Unique Approaches:
- Research-led teaching, incorporating the latest findings and perspectives.
Careers:
The Geology BSc program opens doors to a wide range of careers, both directly related to geology and in other sectors where transferable skills are highly valued.
- Traditional Geology Careers:
- Project Engineer
- Technical Assistant
- Director
- Business Development Manager
- Mapping Geologist
- Geoscientist
- Geotechnical Engineer
- Geo-environmental Consultant
- Geology and Chemistry Teacher
- Engineering Geologist
- Talent Acquisition Partner
- Research Fellow
- Petrophysicist
- Technical Director
- Other Sectors:
- Renewable energy
- Geotechnical engineering
- Environmental consultancy
Other:
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Geological Society, providing a pathway to becoming a Chartered Geologist.
- Societies: Students can join societies like ROCSOC and SusSoc to connect with like-minded individuals and develop leadership skills.
- Study Abroad and Work Placements: The program offers optional study abroad and work placement opportunities to enhance students' skills and experience.
- Student Profile: The context includes a student profile highlighting the career path of a Geology BSc graduate.
