Geology (Applied Geophysics)

Keele University

Are you curious about how the planet works? Do you have a passion for science? Our Geology (Applied Geophysics) BSc will provide you with a contemporary education in geology, with a specialist focus on applied geophysics techniques. You’ll develop practical skills and experience through fieldwork and laboratory assignments and benefit from industry work placement opportunities to boost your employability.

Course overview

Harness your enthusiasm for science and learn the skills to tackle some of society's biggest environmental challenges. Keele’s Geology (Applied Geophysics) BSc programme develops your fundamental geology knowledge and skills while allowing you to gain in-depth expertise in applied geophysics techniques and their practical applications. This prepares you for a dynamic career as a geologist, a profession that is in high demand.

Never studied Geology before? We've designed this programme to provide you with a solid grounding in the subject during year one, laying the foundation for advanced study in years two and three.

Your geology studies will include exploring the Earth’s origins, the evolution of life, and the exploration, extraction, and management of its natural resources. As an interdisciplinary subject, it draws on geography, environmental science, chemistry, biology, and physics. You will develop an understanding of Earth’s and other planets' structures and explore the physical, chemical, and biological processes occurring deep beneath our feet.

The Applied Geophysics elements of the programme will focus on areas such as developing skills in geophysical research, examining the use of geophysics in geotechnics, ground engineering, geoforensics and environmental monitoring.

We place a strong emphasis on developing practical skills, equipping you with the methods and techniques needed for future employment. You will gain hands-on experience using equipment, samples, and digital resources in our state-of-the-art Central Science Labs while gathering, analysing, and interpreting your own research data through residential and one-day field courses.

Your future career

Geoscientists play a crucial role in tackling global challenges and supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and the Paris Agreement. Geology graduates are in high demand for their sub-surface knowledge and geoscientific skills, essential for addressing these goals and climate agreements.

Upon graduating, you will possess a strong set of transferable skills applicable to various sectors, including energy, environmental, engineering, education, and consultancy. To become a professional geologist, you will need to gain professional experience after earning your degree and then apply for Chartered Geologist (CGeol) status. Your accredited degree can give you a head start by reducing the required years of experience for chartered status.

Studying our Geology (Applied Geophysics) BSc could lead to careers as a:

Geologist

Geophysicist

Geochemist

Exploration Geologist

Survey Geologist

Geophysicist

Volcanologist

Seismologist

Geochemist

Teacher

Geological Surveyor

Geotechnical Engineer

Hydrogeologist

Foundation year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Duration of study: 3 years / 4 years with international or placement year