Geology with Palaeontology MGeol

Fossils tell us so much about the history of life, but in many ways, we’ve only just scratched the surface. Along with building your skills and knowledge in the scientific study of fossils, this degree is your gateway towards PhD research.Geology at Leicester provides a friendly, dynamic and supportive environment in which to learn about the evolution of our planet from geoscientists at the forefront of their field. Our teaching is led by our research and you will be taught by staff recognised internationally for their expertise in fields such as palaeobiology, economic geology, volcanology, structural geology, geophysics and palaeoenvironments.Because all our degrees include common modules in the first year, you can transfer between courses as you discover those aspects of the geosciences which inspire you most and best match your particular interests and career aspirations. We pride ourselves on our excellent staff-student relations and have high student satisfaction levels not least because of our small group teaching and tutorials, which provide individually tailored academic and pastoral support throughout your degree.Whether you study for the Geology with Palaeontology BSc or the Geology with Palaeontology MGeol, your degree will combine the knowledge and skills base of a degree in geology with the development of expertise in the scientific study of fossils.Palaeontology addresses how the origin and evolution of life is intricately linked with the geological history of the Earth. Through the fossil record you will explore topics such as evolutionary diversity, exceptional preservation and palaeoclimates. We will cover key groups of invertebrate fossils, vertebrate fossils and microfossils, investigating major concepts such as the origin of life, patterns of evolution and extinction, the importance of exceptional fossil assemblages, and the relationship between ecology and evolution.There are plenty of chances to get your hands dirty as well! Each year of the degree includes different field work opportunities including trips to Scotland, Spain and Wales where you will be able to apply all that you have learned here on campus. You will also carry out an independent field-based project which may range from geological mapping in a fossiliferous area to field and laboratory analysis of fossils. What's the difference?Apply for a four-year MGeol degree if you are looking to fast-track your professional geological employment or to continue on to PhD research after graduation. MGeol courses include a major cutting-edge independent research project on a topic chosen by you, giving you the opportunity to work with specialist analytical facilities, learn the skills required to succeed in a research environment and potentially see your work published in a peer-reviewed journal. Plus you may be able to spend your third year abroad.Apply for a BSc degree if you want an ideal three-year route to becoming a professional geologist or you’re looking to pursue further geological studies through a specialist MSc course.It is possible to transfer between the BSc and the MGeol up to the end of Year 2.