About this course
Explore the mysteries of the planet and develop an in-depth understanding of the Earth as a complex system. On this integrated master's degree in geology, you'll cover all aspects of geology, from climate change to geoengineering. You'll gain the knowledge and skills for a high-level career in geoscience or to continue your scientific research.
This course is subject to revalidation for 2022 entry.
This geology master's will provide you with extensive, in-depth knowledge of subjects such as:
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physical volcanology
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plate boundary tectonics
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natural resources and sustainable development
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marine geology
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environmental geoscience
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current and past climate change
In the final year, you'll choose a topic and carry out your own research investigation. You'll work with our academic experts and world-class analytical facilities.
After you graduate, your expertise will be in high demand in the geological industry. Whether you choose to focus on the need for raw materials, the environmental sector or engineering geology.
As a master in geology you can:
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gain a thorough grounding in all aspects of the subject
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examine past climate events to help predict climate change
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develop ways to discover new natural resources and exploit known ones responsibly
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understand natural hazards and help avoid them
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study volcanoes and the behaviour of magma
As part of this course you can:
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study in a world-leading research institution, National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS)
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access superb, industry-standard facilities, including the National Oceanographic Library and 150 laboratories
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go on field trips and residential field courses, both in the UK and abroad
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gain career benefits through our many links to geological companies
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develop transferable skills such as teamwork, written and oral communication, planning, presentation, data collection and analysis
Our MSci Geology courses are accredited by The Geological Society of London, meaning our teaching is of the highest quality and has been approved by an independent body of academics and industrialists.
Course location
This course is based at Waterfront (National Oceanography Centre Southampton).
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the programme specification
The programme specification sets out the learning outcomes of this course and details how the course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202223
A-levels
AAB including two acceptable science subjects (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 two acceptable science subjects, 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:
ABB including two acceptable science subjects (minimum of grade B)
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level, including 5 and 6 at two Higher Level Science subjects
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Acceptable science subjects include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation), Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology and Computer Science.
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 Subsidiary Diploma plus AA in A Level to include two science subjects.
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AA grades in A Level to include two science subjects.
BTEC 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. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2 including two science subjects
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
AAAABB to include two science subjects
Irish certificate additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics. Applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at ILC Grade C or 04, the equivalent of GCSE grade C/grade 4.
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, D3, M2 in three Principal subjects including two science subjects at a minimum of M2
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics. 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
AAB from 3 A levels including two acceptable science subjects
or
AA from two A levels subject including two acceptable science subjects 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 science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
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
79% overall including grade 8 in two science subjects. Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English Language (or GCSE English), Mathematics and Science (minimum grade C/4).
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:
-
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
-
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 202122
A-levels
AAB including two acceptable science subjects (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 two acceptable science subjects, 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:
ABB including two acceptable science subjects (minimum of grade B)
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level, including 5 and 6 at two Higher Level Science subjects
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Acceptable science subjects include Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation), Environmental Studies, Geography, Geology and Computer Science.
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 Subsidiary Diploma plus AA in A Level to include two science subjects.
We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AA grades in A Level to include two science subjects.
BTEC 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. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2 including two science subjects
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
AAAABB to include two science subjects
Irish certificate additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics. Applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at ILC Grade C or 04, the equivalent of GCSE grade C/grade 4.
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, D3, M2 in three Principal subjects including two science subjects at a minimum of M2
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics. 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
AAB from 3 A levels including two acceptable science subjects
or
AA from two A levels subject including two acceptable science subjects 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 science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
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
79% overall including grade 8 in two science subjects. Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Computer Science or Electronics.
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English Language (or GCSE English), Mathematics and Science (minimum grade C/4).
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:
-
our Access to Southampton scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
-
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
COVID-19: we've made some changes to the structure of the course for this academic year. Download the programme specification addendum in 'About this course' to learn more.
This degree programme let you develop an extensive and in-depth knowledge of all of the fundamental aspects of cutting-edge geology.
The first 2 years consist mostly of compulsory modules. In your final 2 years, you'll have a larger selection of optional modules.
The research project is an important part of your final year.
Year 1 overview
You'll get a thorough introduction to mainstream geology. You'll study earth materials and ocean biogeochemistry, and learn key skills for geoscientists.
You can also choose 2 optional modules, of which, one must be a Mathematics module.
Year 2 overview
A set of core and compulsory Geology modules will further advance your knowledge.
You'll learn key geological skills, which replicate best practice in the industry. You'll also go on a residential trip for a mapping exercise. This will develop skills in communication and analysis, and train you to visualise geological structures in 3D.
Other modules include structural geology and a study of the origin, structure and composition of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Year 3 overview
You'll further advance your geology knowledge by studying the evolving Earth, microfossils and other specialist topics. Along with these compulsory modules, you'll have a wide range of options within geology and in related disciplines.
For example, you can study environmental and engineering geology, and explore their roles in environmental and engineering management.
A modules on palaeoclimatic change will let you explore records of climate changed locked in marine sediments and ice sheets.
Year 4 overview
You'll undertake an individual research project. This could involve an external organisation (for example, a research institution) or be hosted by one of the National Oceanography Centre Research Groups.
We expect you to take the initiative in choosing a research topic and contacting supervisors and external sponsors.
You'll also choose from a range of specialised optional modules.
The Barrel Award module is a team project to compete in an international competition. It is organised by the American Association of Petroleum Geologists.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
For entry in Academic Year 2021-22
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, GEOG2039, GEOG3004 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.
An introduction to the fundamental processes which determine the environment of the Earth and the general functioning of the Earth as a system.
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...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 1:
This module is suitable for students with A level Mathematic (grade B or higher). – Students with AS level Mathematics are required to take MATH1004 instead. The aim of the module is to provide students with the necessary skills and confidence to apply...
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Year 4 modules
You must study the following modules in year 4:
This module now exists with a number of pathways that caters for a range of topics: Marine Geology and Geophysics - MSci Geology, MSci Geophysics & MRes Marine Geology & Geophysics students
You will be required to undertake an individual research project in year 4. This could involve an external organisation (e.g. industry or research institution) or be hosted by one of the NOCS Research Groups. Candidates are expected to take the initiative...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 4:
This module aims to increase your research-led analytical skills in the handling of sub-surface data using the tools routinely employed within the hydrocarbon industry. You will find similar software tools used throughout all UK industries be they energy,...
This module looks at the operation of the Ocean as a biogeochemical entity within the larger Earth System. There is a strong focus on how the Earth System will respond to anthropogenic impacts and global change.
This module is designed to give a fundamental understanding of the Earth's climate and use this to examine topical issues in climate change research. A hands-on approach enables you to apply your newly learned skills to real-world problems quickly.
The course provides a comprehensive treatment of the geophysics of the Solid Earth.
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)
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Year 3
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 3:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 3:
Year 4
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 4:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- individual and group projects
- oral presentations
- written and practical exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 4:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
John Marshall is the course leader.
Careers
You'll have access to a wide range of geology careers with a master's degree. Geoscientists are in high demand, and many of our graduates are now working as environmental geologists, engineering geologists and geochemists.
Many opportunities are open to you in areas such as:
-
environmental and geological research and consultancy
-
oil, gas and mineral exploration
-
construction industry
-
environmental and geotechnical surveying
-
engineering geology
This degree is also a good basis for further study at postgraduate level.
We host an annual careers fair at the National Oceanography Centre. It is attended by over 25 key employers all looking for Southampton students to fill geology internships and graduate jobs.
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). 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.
Work in industry
You’ll have the opportunity to take a paid year in employment between your second and third year.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £22,760.
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: F601
- 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 aim to respond to you within 2 to 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
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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