Study ›  Undergraduate courses

Geology with Physical Geography

My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.

Get updates and register your interest in clearing 2023

Are you interested in applying for clearing?

When clearing opens, we may have a small number of places available for high-achieving students on some programmes. If places are available, we expect them to fill quickly. Get a head start and register for clearing notifications from the University of Liverpool.

Complete form

Get updates and register your interest in clearing 2023

Are you interested in applying for clearing?

When clearing opens, we may have a small number of places available for high-achieving students on some programmes. If places are available, we expect them to fill quickly. Get a head start and register for clearing notifications from the University of Liverpool.

Complete form

Apply for this course

The deadline for UK students to apply for this course for entry in 2023 was 25 January 2023.

The deadline for international students is 30 June 2023.

Related courses

There are fifteen courses related to Geology with Physical Geography that you might be interested in.

Change country or region

We’re showing entry requirements and other information for applicants with qualifications from: United Kingdom.

Commonly selected...

Change to the United Kingdom


Not on the list?

If your country or region isn’t listed here, please contact us with any questions about studying with us.

Get a prospectus or course leaflet

Master of Earth Science

Master of Earth Science, MESci, is an integrated master’s degree which combines undergraduate and postgraduate study into a single course.

Course overview

Drawing on the complementary expertise of staff in geology and physical geography, this integrated degree programme provides a clear view of the controlling processes that link landscape evolution with environmental change and natural events that impact human activity.

Introduction

The Earth surface system is dynamic and diverse, with changes driven by the interplay of physical, chemical, geological and biological processes in a wide range of environments.

Fieldwork in years two and three at Liverpool is designed specifically for this degree programme integrating geology and geomorphology. You have academic tutors from both disciplines in years one and two.

The first three years of the MESci programme are shared with the BSc programme. The final year provides a wider choice of taught modules and a comprehensive fieldwork programme. In addition, you have the opportunity to design and undertake a major individual research project that will provide you with skills in analysis, synthesis, problem solving, and reporting.

The unique range of skills that MESci Geology with Physical Geography students develop make them attractive to employers in the geotechnical and resource exploration industries, as well as the environmental monitoring, surveying and planning sectors.

Your training will focus on practical and quantitative aspects of geological and geographical science through study of the interaction of surface and near surface processes on the Earth.

Research-based dissertations on topics of your choice are undertaken in years three and four on projects that are geological and/ or geomorphological. Year four includes the opportunity for an additional field courses to Tenerife (volcanic and surface processes).

A number of the School’s degree programmes involve laboratory and field work. Fieldwork is carried out in various locations, ranging from inner city to coastal and mountainous environments. We consider applications from prospective disabled students on the same basis as all other students, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to address barriers to access.

What you'll learn

  • The comprehensive study of surface and near-surface processes
  • Specific practical skills necessary for a career in Earth Sciences
  • Transferable life-skills and independent thinking
  • 11 days of fieldwork in year one
  • 18 days of fieldwork in year two
  • 14 days of fieldwork in the Betics, Spain

Accreditation

This degree is accredited by the Geological Society of London, satisfying the requirements of Fellowship and Chartered Geologist status.

Accreditations in detail

Accreditations

This degree is accredited by the Geological Society of London, satisfying the requirements of Fellowship and Chartered Geologist status.

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

In year one, students take seven compulsory modules and select one optional module as outlined below.

Fieldwork involves:

  • 1 day in North England (October)
  • 8 days in Pembrokeshire (Easter)
  • 2 days in NW England/Wales

ENVS117 is a compulsory module for those without A level Maths or Physics at grade C or above. ENVS153 is a compulsory module for those without A level Chemistry at grade C or above. You should discuss this with your programme director at the start of the academic session.

Compulsory modules

Experiments in Physical Geography (ENVS120)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The module uses laboratory experiments to allow students to gain firsthand experience of some fundamental physical, biological and chemical processes underlying physical geography, aimed primarily at interactions between people and their physical environment. It is designed to provide a foundation for environmental modules in the second and third years.

This module comprises multiple whole-day practical sessions, each designed to give students first-hand experience of a topic important in understanding our changing environment. Dedicated computer practicals are also run to provide training in use of EXCEL, MINITAB, and basic inferential statistics. Students get formal feedback in each assessed week (1 poster per group ). However, perhaps most valuable is the feedback obtained informally via discussions during the sessions.

Introduction to Field Geology (ENVS109)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This field module provides a basic training in field techniques and gives students practical experience working with a wide range of rock types and tectonic structures to solve geological problems. Students gain experience in recording field data and use their own data to interpret geological processes and environments. 
The module is assessed by means of an individual fieldwork portfolio, and a group synthesis poster completed after the field class.

Sedimentary Rocks and Fossils (ENVS118)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

​This module provides a basic introduction to sedimentology and palaeontology. Students learn about the origin of sediment, sedimentary processes and structures and the ways in which sediments are converted into solid rock. The course outlines the importance of sedimentary rocks for hydrocarbons, water and as construction materials. Students learn how to describe and interpret sedimentary deposits.

The palaeontology component introduces students to the major fossil groups and to the ways in which  organisms can be preserved as fossils. It covers the importance of fossils for the study of evolution, environmental change and earth history. Students learn how to describe fossils and how observations contribute to a broader understanding.

Students will be assessed by means of two practical tests and a theory examination.

Introduction to Structural Geology and Geological Maps (ENVS156)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module introduces a key subject within Earth Sciences, Structural Geology and Geological Mapping. In this module you will be introduced to geological structures from the micro to the mountain scale, and receive training in the geometrical techniques used to document and analyse them. You will also learn the basic principles of stress and strain which underpin a number of advanced Earth Science subjects and skills used in industry and research. Finally, the module will provide training in how to read and understand geological maps, and train your 3D visualisation skills by learning how to create geological cross-sections from maps, and how to stereographically plot 3D geological data. A combination of virtual lectures, practical skill development sessions, discussion sessions, and directed reading will help you navigate this important Earth Sciences topic. You will be assessed on the development of your practical skills through an end-of-semester open book practical exam, and you will write an individual research paper on a specific topic in structural geology.

Study Skills and GIS (Earth Science) (ENVS101)

Credits: 15 / Semester: whole session

This module introduces students to the key skills necessary to succeed on a University Earth Science course. It does this via a series of lectures, workshops, and tutorials, together with a geology fieldwork day and attendance at departmental seminars and talks. The lectures, towards the start of the firt semester, cover academic integrity, exam skills, employability and 2D/3D visualisation. Tailored workshops cover Geographical Information Systems (GIS), Word, Excel and programming skills. Small-group (typically 4 to 8 students) tutorials are run by academic staff and cover essay writing, careers and employability. Students receive formative feedback on a practice essay in the first semester before completing one that is summatively assessed, set in the second semester. Academic tutors undertake personal development planning (PDP, i.e. careers and module selection advice) with each tutee. It is recomended that all students attend departmental seminars and the annual Herdman (student-led) conference as these help students integrate into the department and understand the sorts of research and applied activity that takes place.

Theory and Laboratory Experiments in Earth Surfaces Processes (ENVS165)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

​The module uses a lecture and laboratory-based problem-solving approach to explore some of the fundamental physical and chemical processes underlying physical geography. It is designed to provide a foundation for environmental and physical geography modules in the second and third years.​

Earth Materials (ENVS185)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will introduce and develop understanding of rock-forming minerals, and other key Earth materials in terms of their environments of formation, occurrence, and abundance. The module will focus on exploring the uses and societal significance of a range of Earth materials, especially those most important for providing sustainable and renewable energy resources and various societal infrastructure. The key practical skill of mineral description, identification and interpretation will be developed and applied throughout the module, to equip students with appropriate skills for many later geoscience modules.

Optional modules

Earth Structure and Plate Tectonics (ENVS112)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The “Earth structure and plate tectonics” module provides an introduction to the Earth and aim to teach students about:
1) the structure and composition of the Earth, the Earth’s gravitational and magnetic fields, and dynamics within the deep Earth;
2) the physics of Earth material and the geological time scale; and
3) plate tectonics.

Environmental Chemistry (ENVS153)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module will give students an understanding of the basics that control fundamental properties of elements and matter, either solid, liquid or gas. It will introduce the fundamentals of atomic structure, elements and molecules from simple inorganic to large organic ones and the bonding forces that held them together. It will look at the basics of chemical reactions with processes of oxidation and reduction, solubility of solids and gases, acid-base properties and thermo-chemistry. Students will learn how to make quantitative predictions on e.g. the amount of products that will be produced based on balanced chemical reactions and will see how basic chemistry can be used to explain many environmental properties. Teaching will be delivered through lectures, tutorial sessions and on-line formative quiz with automated feedback. The tutorial session consists in a set of formative exercises with the presence of demonstrator for facilitate individual learning. The module also include revision sessions (run by demonstrators and staff) as well as revision sessions run by Year 2 and/or Year 3 students who have done this module previously. Assessment is done through 3 on-line tests and a final in-person open book exam.

Living with Environmental Change (ENVS119)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module examines a number of global scale challenges facing humans on the planet earth related to climate and environmental change.

Essential Mathematical Skills (ENVS117)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module is designed to provide students without a A-Level GCE level (or equivalent) background in mathematics a foundation to their degree programme. The module covers pure maths, maths mechanics and statistics developing the required knowledge and skills to be able complete degree programmes in Ocean Sciences, Earth Sciences, Geography, Environmental Science and Marine Biology. The module is taught as weekly lectures following a ten-chapter book developed for the module by world leading experts in the fields. Lectures are supplemented with workshops where concepts can be discussed and skills improved. The module is assessed though online pop-quizzes and a formal written exam.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Global Opportunities

University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.

What's available on this course?

Year in China

Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.

  • Learn Chinese
  • Study in a bustling world heritage city
  • Improve employment prospects
  • Study Chinese culture
  • 30 minutes from Shanghai
  • Learn new skills

Read more about Year at XJTLU, China

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Your experience

At Liverpool, we place a great deal of emphasis on learning through experience. You will be taught in Europe’s most advanced teaching laboratories and will participate in a strong fieldwork programme that will help to prepare you for solving real work problems. You will have access to excellent resources, including research-level analytical equipment and computing facilities, and will be trained in industry-standard methods using materials donated by companies. All our degree programmes will provide you with specific scientific training, as well as equipping you with a wide range of transferable skills valued by employers. You will graduate as a practical, confident and employable earth scientist.

We have a very active Earth Sciences student society – The Herdman society. The society runs academic and social events from guest lectures and field trips to gala dinners, symposiums and sports events.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Careers and employability

There has never been a better time to study Earth sciences. Many of the fundamental questions of our times will be answered by geoscientists, as we seek to provide sustainable resources for the world’s population, as well as predict and mitigate climate change and natural hazards by building a better understanding of the planet on which we live.

The majority of our recent graduates have gained employment within a degree-related field or continued within further education after graduation. We have close links with geoscience and environmental industries ensuring that our degrees properly equip you for future employment. The truly interdisciplinary nature of our degrees additionally makes graduates in Earth sciences highly sought after by other employment sectors.

89.5% of environmental sciences students are in work and/or further study 15 months after graduation.

Discover Uni, 2018-19.

Preparing you for future success

At Liverpool, our goal is to support you to build your intellectual, social, and cultural capital so that you graduate as a socially-conscious global citizen who is prepared for future success. We achieve this by:

  • Embedding employability within your , through the modules you take and the opportunities to gain real-world experience offered by many of our courses.
  • Providing you with opportunities to gain experience and develop connections with people and organisations, including student and graduate employers as well as our global alumni.
  • Providing you with the latest tools and skills to thrive in a competitive world, including access to Handshake, a platform which allows you to create your personalised job shortlist and apply with ease.
  • Supporting you through our peer-to-peer led Careers Studio, where our career coaches provide you with tailored advice and support.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £25,350
Year abroad fee £12,675
Fees stated are for the 2023-24 academic year.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about tuition fees, funding and student finance.

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This includes the cost of a geological field kit, dissertation expenses, and optional field classes in year three.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This includes the cost of a geological field kit, dissertation expenses, and optional field classes in year three.

Students should expect to cover the following costs.

Lab coat- approximately £10-20. Students are advised to purchase a lab coat before the start of their studies. The first lab practical will take place in teaching week one and all students are required to wear a lab coat.

Geological field kit – £69.50. Students are advised to purchase the recommended field kit from the School’s online shop before the start of their studies. Field kits will also be available on campus at the start of the semester. The field kit contains:

  • Compass clinometer
  • Helmet
  • Hand lens
  • Stereonet
  • Michel-Levy chart
  • Hi-vis jacket
  • Grain size card
  • Large clear plastic bag
  • Whistle

Project/dissertation costs – the School may provide a budget of up to £200 for certain field or lab-based projects. Desk-based projects receive no budget from the School.

Year three optional field class:

  • Option A: Europe. One-week residential field class (eg to the Algarve). Students will cover the full cost of the field class, including travel, accommodation, food, and the price of the field class (around £800)
  • Option B: North America. Two-week residential field class. Students will cover the full cost of the field class, including travel, accommodation, food, and the price of the field class (around £1,300).

Geophysics (North America) programme only- additional costs of year three in North America are around £1,500‐ £2,000 (costs will vary according to the type of accommodation, flights etc). A £600 travel bursary is available from the University.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to help cover tuition fees and help with living expenses while at university.

Scholarships and bursaries you can apply for from the United Kingdom

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

My qualifications are from: United Kingdom.

Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

A levels

AAB including one science subject. Acceptable sciences : Maths, Further Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geology, Geography, Environmental Science, Applied Science.

Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is ABB with A in the EPQ.

You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.

GCSE 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics
Subject requirements

For applicants from England: For science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a "Pass" is required.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

Not accepted. Applicants should apply for F6F8

International Baccalaureate

35 points with no score less than 4, inc. one science at Higher Level

Irish Leaving Certificate H1, H1, H2, H2, H2, H3 including H2 or above in one science
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher

Not accepted without Advanced Highers at AAB including one science subject.

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Accepted at Grade B with AA, inc. one science A Level.
Access Not accepted. Applicants should apply for F6F8
International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.

Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements

Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.

Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

Changes to Geology with Physical Geography MESci

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.