Geoscience

Geoscience is the study of the Earth, its structure, composition, history, and the processes that have shaped it over billions of years and continue to do so today. It encompasses geology, geophysics, geochemistry, and the study of Earth's surface environments, and it sits at the heart of some of the most important challenges facing humanity: understanding climate change, managing the transition to sustainable energy, ensuring the supply of critical minerals, and mitigating the risks posed by natural hazards such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and floods.

At the University of Aberdeen, this four-year full-time programme provides a detailed understanding of the Earth's systems and resources, examining how these relate to significant environmental challenges including global warming, the transition to sustainable energy sources, and the loss of biodiversity. You will study the composition and structure of the Earth's interior, the dynamics of plate tectonics, sedimentary environments and the rock record, the behaviour of fluids within the crust, and the ways in which Earth's surface systems interact with climate and life. Field work is central to geoscience education, taking you out of the laboratory and into real geological environments where you can read the evidence of Earth's history directly.

The programme includes a year abroad, offering the opportunity to study in a different geological and academic environment. A typical entry tariff of 200 points reflects the scientific demands of the programme.

You will develop skills in observation, measurement, data analysis, scientific reasoning, and the communication of technical findings, capabilities that are valued across the energy sector, environmental consultancy, mineral exploration, civil engineering, and environmental regulation.

Graduates go on to work in the oil and gas industry, renewable energy, mining and minerals, environmental consultancy, hydrogeology, government agencies, and academic research. Postgraduate study in geoscience, petroleum geology, environmental science, or related fields supports those seeking specialist roles.