About this course
Explore the different processes that drive the global Earth system, on land, in the ocean, in the crust and in the atmosphere. You’ll combine geology, geography and oceanography, and develop a wide range of practical and transferable skills.
Our interdisciplinary degree will open up exciting career options in a range of fields. As an environmental geoscientist you’ll be able to assess the impact of human activity on the planet and society and work to mitigate this impact and find solutions for our future.
With this degree you'll discover the fundamental science that underpins the global Earth system. You'll study different disciplines and gain an extensive knowledge of Earth, marine and environmental sciences. You can choose to study a Geoscience or Marine pathway through this programme.
The human impact on the environment and its natural resources is an important focus for the course. In your third year you can specialise in either marine or terrestrial aspects of the Earth system.
You'll develop a variety of practical and professional skills relating to:
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data collection in the field and laboratory
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data interpretation and digital skills
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environmental assessment and management
In Year 3 your research project will give you the chance to combine knowledge and practice working in a world-class research environment.
You’ll study at the National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS). It is one of the world’s largest centres devoted to research, teaching and technology development in ocean and Earth science. Here you'll have the unique opportunity to work on research projects with NOCS scientists and have access to specialist facilities.
Course locations
This course is based at Waterfront (National Oceanography Centre Southampton) and Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2022 to 2023. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202223
A-levels
ABB including one acceptable science subject (minimum of grade B)
A-levels additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer:
BBB including one acceptable science subject (minimum of grade B) and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows:
BBB including one acceptable science subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level, including 6 at one Higher Level Science subject.
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Acceptable science subjects include Chemistry, Physics, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation), Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements.
Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Extended Certificate plus AB in A Level to include one science subject
We do not accept the BTEC National Diploma/ BTEC National Extended Diploma without two AB grades in A Level to include one science subject,
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience.
Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Physics.Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AB in A Level to include one science subject.
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AB grades in A Level to include one science subject.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3 of which 45 credits must be at Distinction.
Access to HE additional information
A core science Access to HE Diploma must be studied.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3 to include one science subject.
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
AAABBB to include one science subject.
Irish certificate additional information
Science subjects considered include Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Environmental Studies and Geography.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3, M2, M2 to include one science subject.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Science subjects considered include Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics and Geography.
Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A Level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Welsh Baccalaureate
ABB from 3 A levels including one acceptable science subject
or
AB from two A levels including one acceptable science subject and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
76% overall including grade 8 in one science subject. Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Physics
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 5.5
- writing
- 5.5
- speaking
- 5.5
- listening
- 5.5
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
-
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
For Academic year 202324
A-levels
ABB including one acceptable science subject (minimum of grade B)
A-levels additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: BBB including one acceptable science subject (minimum of grade B) and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme, as follows: BBB including one acceptable science subject
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 32 points overall with 16 points at Higher Level, including 6 at one Higher Level Science subject.
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Acceptable science subjects include Chemistry, Physics, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation), Environmental Studies, Geography and Geology.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Extended Certificate plus AB in A Level to include one science subject We do not accept the BTEC National Diploma/ BTEC National Extended Diploma without two AB grades in A Level to include one science subject,
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Physics.Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AB in A Level to include one science subject. We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AB grades in A Level to include one science subject.
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3 of which 45 credits must be at Distinction.
Access to HE additional information
A core science Access to HE Diploma must be studied.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3 to include one science subject.
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
AAABBB to include one science subject.
Irish certificate additional information
Science subjects considered include Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics, Environmental Studies and Geography.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3, M2, M2 to include one science subject.
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Science subjects considered include Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics and Geography. Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A Level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Welsh Baccalaureate
ABB from 3 A levels including one acceptable science subject or AB from two A levels including one acceptable science subject and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
European Baccalaureate
Minimum of 76% overall including grade 8 in one science subject. Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Physics
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English language (or GCSE English) (minimum grade 4/C) and mathematics (minimum grade 4/C)
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
-
skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
The course has a 3 part structure.
Part 1 provides the foundation for your 3 years of study through several compulsory modules.
Part 2 includes further compulsory modules, along with a selection of optional modules. This will let you specialise on either the geoscience or marine pathways, and provides practical training.
In part 3 you can specialise further. You'll also apply the skills you have gained with a research project.
Year 1 overview
You'll take several compulsory modules. This will give you a broad grounding in key theories and techniques of:
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geoscience
-
oceanography
-
environmental science
Year 2 overview
Compulsory modules will introduce a range of topics on the interaction between the Earth system and human activity, including:
-
environmental impact assessment
-
geohazards
-
introduction to Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
You'll develop key practical field and laboratory skills that will provide an excellent basis for further research and your career development.
You can choose from a range of optional modules, including:
-
coastal and estuarine oceanography
-
global water resources
-
geophysics and remote sensing
Year 3 overview
You'll complete an Environmental Geoscience project across both semesters. This will build on a range of skills and require original research under the supervision of our talented researchers and scientists.
You may choose to specialise your studies with terrestrial/Geoscience modules or marine science modules. Both include field methods courses tailored to your chosen path.
You can also choose to keep a broad course structure and take modules from both pathways.
On the Geoscience pathway you can study subjects such as:
-
volcanic mantle processes
-
geology and mineral resources
On the Marine pathway you can study topics such as:
-
seafloor exploration and and surveying
-
coastal sediment dynamics
Compulsory modules on both pathways include topics like:
-
environmental law
-
environmental and engineering geology
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2022 to 2023. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2022-23
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
To give the student a basic knowledge of the main geomorphological processes involved in the shaping of the landscape. Pre-requisite of GEOG3020. One of the pre-requisites for GEOG2032, and GEOG3057.
This module provides you with an overview of the formation, composition and behaviour of the rocks and minerals of the earth's crust. It includes a high level of practical work.
Environmental Scientists need to be able to collect and analyse data relating to a wide range of disciplines, and to be able to interpret this data in relation to “real world” applications. This module introduces you to science in context, with the conten...
This year 1 module introduces students to University study, and key geoscience skills and topics, mainly via small-group (tutorial) and residential field-based learning. Skills covered (depending on degree programme) include fieldwork skills such as geolo...
The module will look at the challenges posed to human societies living on a dynamic planet and how these societies adapt (or not) to a range of environmental and socio-economic hazards. Pre-requisite for GEOG2006 One of the pre-requisites for GEOG...
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
This module examines the process of assessing the potential impacts of major developments on the environment- known worldwide as Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The module has two major themes. In the first part of the module emphasis is placed on...
The topic is addressed from three perspectives: the science of climate change, impact and adaptation, and policy towards adaptation and mitigation. One of the pre-requisites for GEOG3057
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
The module will look at the basic theory and practical application of remote sensing for monitoring the terrestrial environment. Pre-requisite for GEOG3065
An understanding of the physical, chemical and biological processes involved during contamination of air, water and soil is essential if society is going to effectively monitor and control the effects of pollution using modern technology and engineering p...
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
The module consists of the main Oceanography undergraduate fieldcourse which takes place at the end of Semester 2 (late June to early July) following the exam period plus some work on report writing and data presentation in Semester 1 of the following aca...
This module will enable students to apply their understanding of environmental problems and assess potential solutions through the application of law, policy, and management. The lecture sessions will introduce and analyse the theoretical development and ...
This module examines current topics in environmental and engineering geology – the practical application of the principles of geology/Earth Science in the solving of environmental and engineering problems. Through a mix of lecture, discussion and practica...
The Independent Research Project, or Dissertation, forms an extremely important part of the overall degree. This module represents an extended opportunity to develop independent real-world and applied research skills, in design, execution, analysis and sy...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
GEOG3057 is a multidisciplinary unit designed for students with an interest in how individuals and societies understand and respond to environmental shocks and stresses, and their different capacities for adaptation. The focus of the module is on climate ...
The module has been designed to impart the scientific knowledge required to tackle the many problems associated with air and other types of environmental pollution, including how to identify and assess the nature, sources and effects of pollutants, how to...
The coastal zone supports the livelihood and well-being of hundreds of millions of people, valuable ecosystems and vital industry, trade links and energy networks. The movement of coastal sediments by natural processes and human interventions continually ...
This module provides you with skills that are scientifically fascinating as well as important for employability. The offshore industry is crying-out for graduates that understand seafloor surveying. In the past few years many OES students have gone on to...
If we are to address society’s waste problem we need to fully understand the environmental, occupational, public health, technical, fiscal, social, cultural, demographic and political influences on waste collection, reuse, recycling, minimisation and prev...
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
- coursework
- individual and group projects
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Juerg Matter is the course leader.
Careers
Graduates of our Environmental Geoscience degree programs can expect to find work in the following areas:
-
environmental surveying, research and consultancy
-
engineering geology, construction industry and geotechnical surveying
-
petroleum and minerals resource industries
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research
-
teaching
This degree provides a good foundation for further study and research at postgraduate level.
We host an annual careers fair at the National Oceanography Centre Southampton. Over 25 key employers attend, all looking for Southampton graduates.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
-
work experience schemes
-
CV and interview skills and workshops
-
networking events
-
careers fairs attended by top employers
-
a wealth of volunteering opportunities
-
study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £23,720.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant that's linked to your chosen subject area.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Services Centre offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
When you apply use:
- UCAS course code: F650
- UCAS institution code: S27
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We'll aim to process your application within two to six weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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