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- University of Plymouth
- MSc Environmental Geochemistry
Course options
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Qualification
MSc - Master of Science
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Location
Plymouth University
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Study mode
Full time
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Start date
01-SEP-25
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Duration
1 year
Course summary
Environmental geochemistry is central to the environmental sector which has grown rapidly over the last decade. The global environmental consultancy market, a key destination for suitably skilled graduates, is currently increasing at its strongest rate for five years. Geochemical expertise is vital to many aspects of the day to day work of environmental consultants, civil, structural and mining engineers, environmental regulatory authorities, mining and oil companies.
Environmental geochemistry is the scientific discipline concerned with the sources, distribution and interactions of chemical elements in rocks, soils, waters, air and biological material. It particularly is tasked with studying a wide variety of environmental materials using a broad suite of analytical tools, inclusive of field measurements, chemical instrumentation and digital modelling methods.
Programme overview
You will learn how chemicals of environmental concern move through the environment, how to analyse them and how to interpret the data to support environmental management decisions. This involves using a broad suite of analytical tools, inclusive of field measurements, chemical instrumentation and digital modelling methods. Geochemical research guides oil exploration, can help improve water quality and is also used to develop plans to manage contaminated sites.
Careers with this subject
Environmental geochemistry provides strong employment opportunities for appropriately skilled graduates. Research amongst chemistry, science and general employers suggests the majority of employers are seeking additional skills from graduates, particularly numeracy (including data analysis), independent learning, commercial/business awareness, flexibility/adaptability, leadership, interpersonal and research skills. Similarly, the last relevant environmental research council review published by NERC (2012) cited most important skill gaps identified by employers as modelling, multidisciplinarity, data management, numeracy, translating research into practice, fieldwork and risk and uncertainty. These are all central to the field of environmental geochemistry which, in comparison to other environmental management postgraduate programmes, places a particular focus on understanding the chemical nature of environmental issues and a rigorous approach to data acquisition, data management, modelling and uncertainty thus providing graduates with unique and desirable skill set.
Modules
Tuition fees
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£ 20,400per year
Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.
University information

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University League Table
65th
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Campus address
Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth, Plymouth, PL4 8AA, England
Subject rankings
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Subject ranking
44th out of 73 1
23rd out of 30 1
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Entry standards
/ Max 211125 59%40th
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Graduate prospects
/ Max 10074.0 74%40th
2 -
Student satisfaction
/ Max 43.12 78%35th
15 -
Entry standards
/ Max 229125 55%21st
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Graduate prospects
/ Max 10080.0 80%15th
1 -
Student satisfaction
/ Max 43.26 81%5th
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