Following the foundation year, the syllabus of this course is identical to its sister course [Environmental Earth Science, F640].

Why study Environmental Earth Science at Aberystwyth University?

• Aberystwyth University offers you the unique opportunity to study geography in one of the most picturesque locations in Europe.  Set on the coast of Cardigan Bay and surrounded by a great diversity of beautiful environments, including marine, moorland, mountain and grassland, our department is uniquely placed to make the most of the stunning landscapes that surround it, providing you with a fabulous variety of fieldwork and recreational opportunities;
• You will explore and receive a detailed insight into Geological and Environmental Earth Sciences topics;
• This course will enable you to develop a deeper understanding of climate change;
• You will understand the impacts of volcanic eruptions on the environment and insights into mass extinction events;
• Your mentors and lecturers will inform you of the current trends in Geohazards and provide training in engineering Geology and Hydrology;
• You will develop a solid understanding of contemporary environmental issues: pollution, climate change, waste disposal among many others;
• Our facilities are recognised by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC)
• We offer fieldwork opportunities in each of the three years of your degree;
• For those who would like to study through the medium of Welsh, there are a number of modules available to those who have an interest. Check out the module tab below for more information.

Our Staff

Department of Geography and Earth Science: lecturers are all qualified to PhD level or working towards a PhD.

What can I do with a degree in Environmental Earth Sciences?

Our graduates have, for example, found employment as environmental consultants, planners, civil servants, surveyors, and in education amongst man other things.

Employability is embedded within all courses provided by us. Our degrees provide a solid foundation for a vast array of careers across a range of sectors. In a rapidly shifting global economy, our graduates are adaptable and able to draw on a range of transferable skills, ensuring that they are always in demand.

The skill sets include:

• Enhanced mathematical and computational skills;
• Effective problem solving and creative thinking skills;
• Information technology skills;
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team;
• Time-management, organisational skills;
• Communication skills both written and oral;
• Self-motivation and self-reliance.

What will I learn?

The breakdown below will provide you with an illustration of what you may study during the four-year degree scheme.

In the first foundation year, you will be introduced to core components of Environmental Earth Science.

In your second year, you will be introduced to:

• Primary (solid earth) and secondary (surface processes) environments;
• Past and present Environmental changes;
• Potential for predicting future changes in our climate and environment;
• Field and laboratory skills spanning geology and physical geography.

In your third year you will discover;

• Geochemistry;
• The methods of chemical analysis of natural materials;
• How to apply geophysical and geographical techniques used in site investigations;
• Quantitative and qualitative data sets.

In your final year you will undertake:

• An independent research project or dissertation;
• Optional modules including engineering geology, process glaciology, volcanic activity among many others.

How will I be taught?

Our courses are taught through lectures, seminars, laboratory and computer practical classes, small group tutorials, field courses and individual supervision of project work.

How will I be assessed?

We assess our students through a different range of methods. Some modules are assessed in part through traditional exams, but some have elements of coursework. We also have some modules that may require the student to produce practical reports, oral presentations, the design of web pages, production of short films, or contribution to online discussion forums. Some modules, notably the tutorials and field courses are assessed entirely through coursework.