Undergraduate study - 2024 entry
Edinburgh. Extraordinary futures await.

MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement

UCAS code: U9H6

Duration: 5 years

Delivery: Full-time

School: GeoSciences

College: Science and Engineering

Study abroad
Placements

Introducing MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement

Do you:

  • have a curiosity about how our planet works?
  • want to help solve some of the biggest global challenges facing our planet?

Then geophysics may be for you.

Join us as we explore the amazing planet Earth, from its hot core to its crust, oceans, atmosphere, and everything in between.

What is geophysics?

Geophysics is about understanding the complex interactions between Earth's systems. We explore everything from liquid metal in the Earth's core to moving continents on the Earth surface. We study the composition of the deep Earth and the rapidly changing composition of the Earth's atmosphere.

Science of natural disasters

We can use geophysics to monitor the processes that result in catastrophic events. For example, earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions.

Big science and big data

We use a process called remote sensing to gather vast amounts of data. We often obtain this data through satellites, aircraft and drones. We can collect data from the edges of space to the very centre of the Earth to understand, model and predict how the Earth behaves.

Computer science

Using coding and building computer models helps us understand complex data and predict how the Earth will behave in the future.

Environmental science

Geophysics is also about understanding the physics of environmental change. We can look for ways to mitigate the harmful impact of human activity and repair damages of the past. For example, we are seeking ways to provide renewable sources of energy. Plus, finding the materials and technologies that enable them.

Climate science

Understanding how the atmosphere and oceans interact also allows us to predict the impact of human activities on the rapidly changing climate. We can benchmark our progress towards a net-zero future.

Multiscale science

Our understanding can range from how atoms behave under immense pressures and temperatures deep within the Earth, to examining interactions between planetary bodies in our solar system and beyond.

Bringing it all together

It is the interdisciplinarity and interconnected nature of geophysics that defines much of what we do. It is also why geophysics plays such an essential role in creating a more sustainable and equitable future for us all.

Making a difference starts here. Are you ready?

What will I learn?

We will teach you to understand our world, so you can help safeguard its future.

You'll study the properties and forces, both small and large, that act on planetary or even inter-planetary scales.

For example:

  • the microscopic properties of minerals
  • large scale forces such as gravity and magnetism
  • the inner workings of the Earth

We will train you in fundamental physical principles and mathematical techniques of geophysics.

You will learn to apply these techniques to diverse fields, for example:

  • monitoring the Earth's changing environment and climate
  • mapping environmental pollution above and below ground
  • measuring rock and soil properties before civil engineering work
  • carbon capture, energy storage and management of water resources
  • technological innovations to sustainably explore and manage the Earth's resources for society's needs
  • understanding the behaviour of the Earth's deep interior
  • understanding how the Earth and other planets have formed and changed over their lifetime

By studying this degree, you will learn from our wide range of experienced academics across a diverse range of Earth science disciplines. Our research-led, industry-informed teaching ensures your degree has real-world relevance and helps make you highly sought after by employers.

We embrace a hands-on approach to learning, so you can develop in-demand practical skills. Many of your activities simulate those that professionals perform in the real world.

Open to a world of possibilities

We are one of the largest and most successful groupings of Earth and environmental scientists and geographers in the UK, many of whom are world experts in their field. Our staff will incorporate the latest research in your teaching, and share our discoveries with you.

  • We have pioneered research proving human-caused greenhouse gases are warming our planet, which helped underpin the 2015 Paris Agreement.
  • We are working with major space agencies to monitor the environment using satellite data.
  • We are 15th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2023.
  • We are also in the world's top 50 and the UK's top 10 universities for natural sciences, environmental sciences, geology, geophysics, Earth and marine sciences, (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023).
  • Learn from Earth scientists at the forefront of their fields. We are delivering world-leading research in a range of areas.

Additionally:

  • Enjoy access to a world of experience with our research and industry networks.
  • Get advice and guidance with our dedicated Careers Service.

Join us as our planet and humanity face some of the biggest challenges we have ever known.

Life-changing field trips

Field trips are at the heart of this programme.

We know that getting out in the world is essential for understanding how it works.

We will take you beyond the classroom so that you can apply your learning to real-life situations.

Our field courses and day excursions are hard work and fun. Often they will provide some of your most memorable moments. You will have many opportunities to get your hands dirty!

For example, you could be:

  • mapping the subsurface of meteorite impacts and volcanic craters
  • exploring the geology of rocks found under the North Sea and comparing with offshore geophysical data
  • travelling abroad and working with international peers to conduct gravity and seismic surveys

What do you do on a field trip?

The answer is...a lot!

Our hands-on approach to learning helps build your confidence and practical experience. It also gives you valuable field skills prized by employers.

  • Your training leads to the opportunity to conduct your own independent research project. An experienced academic will supervise and support you through your work.
  • Field experiences help deepen your sense of community within your cohort. You will engage in a dynamic learning experience through peer learning where knowledge, ideas, and discoveries thrive.
  • Working on multidisciplinary problems prepares you for the real world, where collaborative solutions are crucial to solving local and global challenges.

Our trips also allow you to experience working with different types of field equipment, which will help you develop in-demand practical skills. We have a range of tools and modern high-tech equipment to obtain and interpret field measurements, such as:

  • Unoccupied Aerial Vehicles (UAV) - also called 'drones'
  • digital mapping tools
  • geophysical instruments to acquire electrical resistivity and magnetic data
  • geophysical instruments to conduct seismic surveys

The locations and experiences of each trip will vary. We want to enrich you with a broad understanding of how the world works. Our goal is to minimise our carbon footprint while providing you with the best training opportunities.

Our compulsory field trips or field courses are free, including travel and accommodation. To ensure our degrees are accessible and inclusive, we offer alternative learning experiences where necessary.

Want to know more?

For more information on the field trips in our courses, please refer to the Programme Structure for this degree under 'What you will study'.

You can also access blog posts and videos on the School of GeoSciences website.

What is it really like to study with us?

No one knows what it's like to study here better than the students themselves.

Our students are sharing their experiences - from studying to living in Edinburgh and everything in between.

Get social with us:

Edinburgh is your ideal base

Edinburgh is ranked 2nd in the UK and 10th in the world in the QS Best Student Cities 2023. Our vibrant capital is an irresistible blend of history and modern city life.

Edinburgh is not only a fantastic city to live in; it's also the perfect location to study the Earth and environmental sciences. Did you know that Edinburgh is the 'birthplace' of modern geology and Earth sciences?

An ancient volcano known as 'Arthur's Seat' forms part of a magnificent park in the middle of our city. And superb geological locations are right on our doorstep, providing you with world-class outdoor training grounds. Many of these sites are of scientific importance. For example, the world-famous "Hutton's Unconformity" at Siccar Point is just a short trip away.

We will help you make the most of our local surroundings throughout your studies.

Immerse yourself among rugged coastlines, misty mountains, forest glens and sparkling freshwater lochs.

It is no surprise we are regularly voted one of the most desirable places to live in the world!

The exciting nature of geophysics means you will have a diverse learning experience during your years with us.

What (and how) you learn will depend on the courses you take, and the nature of the topics explored.

Your programme begins with a broad grounding of topics across Earth sciences and the environment.

You will:

  • build on this foundation while exploring new and varied topics in the following years
  • develop independence and confidence as you progress through your studies

You can find details for compulsory and option courses through the 'Programme Structure' link.

Professional placement

The information on this page is for our 5-year MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement degree.

It follows the 4-year BSc Geophysics degree. However, it has an additional one-year work placement between academic Years 3 and 4. This additional year gives you valuable professional experience.

Study pathways

We have three degree streams that specialise in geophysics:

You do not need to apply to more than one geophysics degree when applying. You can switch between the different geophysics degrees in your first year of study as you discover the subjects you like best.

Our geophysics degrees:

  • have the same entry requirements
  • share the same first year
  • include the possibility to switch degrees at the end of Year 1

From Year 2, our geophysics degrees diverge to become more specialised for their particular degree streams.

In addition:

  • Many of the courses in your first and second years are also shared with our range of Earth science and environment degrees.
  • Depending on the courses you take, it may be possible to switch between these degrees as you discover the subjects you like best.

You will then specialise in the subject of your choice in later years.

Second year entry option

You have the opportunity to shorten the length of your studies by one full year.

This option may be for you if you know exactly what you want to do and are ready to study your chosen field right away. You can also fast track your career by graduating earlier.

However, during your first year, you will have fewer course options and flexibility.

But, you can:

  • graduate with the BSc in three years, or
  • graduate with an integrated masters (MEarthPhys) in four years, or
  • graduate with the BSc, followed by a separate one-year postgraduate degree within four years

In your first year through this route, you will:

  • join the cohort of students entering their second year of study (Year 2)
  • take the same number of courses as your Year 2 peers, so there is no extra increase in your study workload
  • have fewer option courses than your Year 2 peers. Instead, you will need to complete the compulsory courses of Year 1 and Year 2 within your first year

Please note: You must be suitably qualified if you want to shorten your studies. Make sure you view the entry requirements under 'Second Year Entry' below.

Switching degrees

Our Earth science and environment degrees provide opportunities to switch between degrees in your early years.

Please note:

  • Some later courses may not be available if you have not taken the necessary pre-requisite courses.
  • In order to switch between the different geophysics degrees, you must decide by the end of Year 1.

You should discuss your interests with your Cohort Lead to ensure that these options are still available to you.

Option courses

One of the most exciting things about a Scottish undergraduate degree is option courses. You have the opportunity to take a number of courses outside your degree.

You can choose courses related to your degree, or try something completely different and new to you.

Changes to teaching and learning

We are committed to offering high-quality education to all our students. However, please be advised that there may be changes to course options and delivery. All decisions are made to ensure we can provide the highest standards for your educational experience.

Optional courses can be subject to change or cancellation at short notice. In addition, places on optional courses can be limited due to course capacity and timetabling constraints. It may not be possible to guarantee every offer holder their top choice of optional courses.

Changes to field trips

Field course locations may change for a variety of reasons, including due to Covid-19. Where necessary, fieldwork will be relocated, rescheduled or alternative arrangements provided. Decisions will be made to safeguard the health and safety of our students, staff and community - and to ensure the highest standards of educational experience.

Accessibility on field trips

We are committed to making our degree as accessible and inclusive as possible. In the event that you cannot attend all trips or only some of them, we will provide alternatives with comparable learning outcomes where necessary.

The Earth sciences at Edinburgh are really comprehensive and offer many different options depending on your interest. I chose my degree because of the chance to study a wide range of material. During my degree, I have developed skills that I didn't realise I enjoyed, such as coding. And the fieldwork is a bonus as well!

David Fairweather, BSc Geophysics and Meteorology

Year 1

All compulsory courses will be the same across our geophysics degrees.

We will introduce you to the foundations of:

  • geology
  • geophysics
  • mathematics
  • physics

We will help you develop a strong sense of purpose and foster an idea of what you might want to do as a geophysics graduate.

Year 2

You will advance your knowledge in:

  • geology
  • geophysics
  • mathematics
  • physics

You can also choose option courses from a wide selection across the University. You can choose courses related to your degree. Or you can try something completely different and new to you.

Second year entry

If you have direct entry to Year 2, you will take a specially tailored set of courses in the first semester. But you will join the standard programme in the second semester.

Year 3

Your coursework will become more focused on specialised aspects of your degree.

You will spend more time developing detailed skills, and learning at the cutting edge of geophysics.

We will cover:

  • maths and computing
  • measurements and modelling
  • geophysical imaging and inversion
  • geophysical field skills
  • general research skills

Year 4

As part of this degree, you will complete a professional placement in Year 4.

Your placement will be with an approved company or research institute in the UK or abroad.

During this time, you will work on a relevant project related to your degree. You will be assessed on your project work with the external partner.

This opportunity can give you valuable insight into the professional and real-world application of your degree and enhance your future career path.

Year 5

You will develop expert knowledge in a field of your choice.

A significant focus will be on independent research.

You can either complete:

  • one major project, or
  • two smaller projects

Your project/s will be an independent piece of research in your chosen specialist field. They can be inspired by your area of interest, aided by our world-class facilities and top scientists.

We will support you with individual supervision from an academic with experience in your chosen subject area.

Through fieldwork, you will apply the skills you have learned during your studies. We will intensively explore a specific site, which we often share with students from France and Germany. This gives you the opportunity to meet fellow peers and apply geophysics in the real world.

Our selected location will provide you with a variety of fascinating geophysical and geological structures. Previous trips have taken place across various sites in Europe.

You will employ a wide range of geophysical techniques and equipment to study:

  • gravity
  • magnetics
  • electromagnetism
  • seismology

You will also continue to study courses that further your knowledge in geophysics.

Programme structure

Find out more about the compulsory and optional courses in this degree programme.

To give you an idea of what you will study on this programme, we publish the latest available information. However, please note this may not be for your year of entry, but for a different academic year.

Programme structure (2022/23)

Our facilities

You will have access to the University's facilities across all University sites.

For example:

  • laboratories
  • libraries
  • study spaces (some of which are open 24 hours)
  • computing facilities
  • social spaces
  • leisure facilities

Depending on the option courses you choose, you may also study at various campus locations in Edinburgh.

King's Buildings campus

Most teaching occurs within the School of GeoSciences, located at the University's King's Buildings campus. The King's Buildings (KB) is the main campus of the College of Science and Engineering.

The King's Buildings campus is around 15 minutes from central Edinburgh. It is easily accessible by bus. You can also cycle (10 minutes) or walk (25 minutes) from the central area.

The School of GeoSciences houses a wide range of cutting-edge facilities and services. We also host several collaborative centres of research excellence.

You will attend lectures, tutorials and practicals in our state-of-the-art theatres and classrooms.

We embrace a hands-on approach to learning, so you will also have plenty of access to our specialist research facilities, laboratories, supercomputers and field equipment. And yes, we have drones!

You will:

  • have access to a range of high-tech facilities, letting you analyse various types of samples
  • collect some of these samples during field excursions and for your independent research project
  • conduct field measurements using various techniques used in Earth and environmental sciences
  • have access to digital field equipment and UAV unoccupied aerial vehicles (drones) to conduct measurements using various techniques

You will also be given a dedicated undergraduate student learning space during your honours years. You can use this space for your independent work, to study with others and socialise with your peers.

Computing facilities

We also have advanced computing facilities, where you will be able to:

  • perform advanced geographic information systems (GIS) analysis
  • run cutting-edge meteorological and geophysical computer models
  • make the most out of digital field mapping tools

College of Science and Engineering

The College and University's central units provide many essential services at the King's Buildings campus.

For example:

  • library and study facilities
  • catering outlets and shops
  • our Careers Service

You can find out more about King's Buildings campus on the College of Science and Engineering website:

A cluster of science and technology companies are also located on the campus. Many of these companies are spin-out companies based on College research. There are also start-ups which have located here to build close ties with the College.

Take a virtual tour

You can take a closer look at the School of GeoSciences and explore our facilities and campus on the University's Virtual Visit site.

Discover our city's landmarks, our campuses, accommodation and get video tours - all in one place.

Placements

As part of this degree, you will complete a professional placement in Year 4.

Your placement will be with an approved company or research institute in the UK or abroad. During this time, you will work on a relevant project related to your degree.

This opportunity can:

  • broaden your horizons
  • give you valuable insight into the professional and real-world application of your degree
  • enhance your future career paths

On completion of your placement, you will be able to:

  • execute a significant project of research, investigation or development
  • work effectively in a professional relationship alongside qualified practitioners
  • exercise significant autonomy and initiative in a professional environment
  • communicate formally (such as presentations and reports) and informally with peers, senior colleagues and specialists
  • prove your experience in a range of routine and advanced skills
  • develop a critical understanding of the background, theories and concepts of the work

We can help you access our wide range of research and industry networks. We have excellent relationships with various organisations. These range from local communities to government, industry, and academia.

Previous students have had placements with organisations such as the British Geological Survey or Met Office.

Additional experience

You also have extra opportunities for work-integrated learning during your studies.

For example, we can help you with self-arranged internships or summer work placements.

Study abroad

There are exciting opportunities to study abroad as part of the University's exchange programmes.

Many of our students spend their third year in Europe or further afield. A year abroad can give you invaluable academic and life skills.

In addition to University-wide exchanges, the School of GeoSciences has several subject-specific exchanges. We have partner universities in:

How will I learn?

You will learn from a wide range of experienced academics at the forefront of their field. Our research-led, industry-informed teaching incorporates the latest developments in your field. By sharing our discoveries with you, we keep your degree up-to-date, diverse, and exciting.

The types of learning styles depend on the courses you choose and the nature of the topics explored.

Teaching can be through a mix of:

  • lectures
  • tutorials
  • practical classes
  • laboratory work
  • workshops
  • field trips and field courses
  • project work

You will also:

  • complete a professional placement with an external partner in Year 4. During this time, you will work on a relevant project related to your degree
  • complete a research dissertation in Year 5

You can find more information about teaching methods for individual courses by accessing them through the Programme Structure under 'What you will study'.

Technical training

This degree has a hands-on approach to develop you with a range of practical skills.

We will carefully balance:

  • data science
  • programming and computing simulations
  • use of specialist computer programmes
  • laboratory experience in a range of analytical techniques
  • observational and analytical skills in different field settings
  • geographical information systems (GIS)

You will have access to our wide range of specialist research facilities, laboratories and field equipment.

We also have cutting-edge computational facilities. They enable you to visualise and explore the scientific data created in your advanced projects.

How will you support me?

We want to help you make the most of your studies with us.

You will have access to a range of resources and activities to support you during your studies. You will be assigned a Student Adviser for the duration of your degree, who will be your main contact if you have any questions related to academic or pastoral support. The Student Adviser works closely with academics in your degree, as well as with wider University support services. They are also able to help you with a wide range of administrative and practical issues, and they can direct you to relevant resources or people.

You will also be assigned a Cohort Lead who will organise activities to help you get to know the other students on your degree. They will also advise and support you on a range of topics, including course choices, how to develop and improve your academic skills, how to effectively use feedback and provide advice on your future career opportunities.

For your honours dissertation project, you will also receive individual supervision and guidance from an academic with experience in your chosen subject area.

During your professional placement year, you will have a dedicated academic supervisor as well as a supervisor at your placement both of whom will provide regular support during the year.

How will I be assessed?

We will assess you in various ways. The types of assessment depend on the courses you choose and the nature of the topics explored.

Assessment can be through a mix of:

  • written or practical exams, including multiple-choice exercises
  • laboratory reports and field project reports
  • practical evaluation in the field or field notebooks
  • coursework such as essays
  • posters
  • individual or group projects and presentations

You may also be evaluated in computer programming exercises. Some senior honours courses and projects in Earth sciences and environment involve computational modelling elements.

We will also assess your:

  • project work with the external partner in Year 4
  • presentation and scientific writing skills for your independent research project in Year 5

You can find more information about assessment methods for individual courses by accessing them through the Programme Structure under 'What you will study'.

Our planet is rapidly approaching a critical state.

As a result, the demand for geophysicists and Earth scientists has never been greater.

With this degree, you will play a vital role in our transition into a more sustainable society.

We also want you to develop practical skills for future employers. So, many of your learning activities simulate those that professionals perform in the real world.

Our programme also equips you with sought-after data skills, computational analysis and quantitative skills. Demand is growing for these skills across a range of employment sectors.

By studying this degree, a range of career opportunities are open to you.

For example, you could work in:

  • environmental geophysics
  • hydrogeology
  • industrial management and administration
  • renewable energy
  • environmental protection
  • natural hazards

The skills you develop with us are also highly transferable. You can work in other sectors such as:

  • engineering
  • finance
  • business
  • consultancy
  • government or civil service positions

Where do our graduates find employment?

Our graduates have gained employment in roles such as:

  • geophysicist
  • meteorologist
  • waste resource manager
  • hydrogeologist
  • resource discovery
  • environmental consultant
  • sustainability consultant
  • minerals surveyor
  • energy resources manager

A sustainable future

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are a call for action to address the significant global challenges of our generation.

There are 17 overarching goals with a timeline set to 2030. Nearly all countries in the world have committed to this plan, with societies rapidly adjusting to meet these goals.

They address challenges such as:

  • climate change
  • environment
  • water
  • food inequality
  • protecting our planet
  • sustainable growth and energy supplies

Earth sciences and geophysics are at the heart of these efforts.

With this degree, you can work in fields that directly contribute to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

Play a vital role in the climate crisis

As one of the world's leading universities, we play a vital role in tackling the numerous complex climate challenges. Our internationally renowned research aims to mitigate climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.

Read some of our stories:

Data innovation

A key feature of our programme is a strong focus on developing your skills around the generation and analysis of scientific data, aided by a wide range of computational techniques. Demand is growing for these data skills across a range of employment sectors.

Along with your subject-specific skills, you will develop valuable transferable skills.

For example:

  • advanced computing and data skills
  • the ability to think in 3D and 4D
  • model building from limited datasets
  • the capability to integrate spatial and temporal information
  • understanding processes on a range of scales
  • extrapolating hypotheses based on small data sets
  • extracting key information from complex sets of observations
  • assessing large data sets and pattern recognition in complex data
  • dealing with complex systems and uncertainties

Networks

By studying with us, you'll join one of the largest and most successful groupings of Earth and environmental scientists in the UK.

This means you will have access to our wide range of research and industry networks. We have excellent relationships with many organisations and external practitioners. These range from local communities to government, industry, and academia.

Together, we help ensure this degree enables you to develop the competencies most prized by employers. Our links also provide you with valuable networking and potential employment opportunities.

All of this ensures your degree has real-world relevance.

Careers Service

We support you to recognise the wealth of possibilities ahead.

Our award-winning Careers Service plays an essential part in your wider student experience. We also support you after graduation.

We provide:

  • tailored advice
  • individual guidance
  • internships and networking opportunities (with employers from local organisations to top multinationals)
  • access to the experience of our worldwide alumni network

We invest in your future beyond the end of your degree. Studying here is about laying the foundations for your future success. Whatever shape that takes.

Further study

Our programmes also prepare you for competitive entry into relevant postgraduate degree programmes. A significant proportion of our students progress to further postgraduate study and research.

Standard entry requirement

The standard entry requirement is:

  • SQA Highers: ABBB by end of S5 or AAAB by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6.
  • A Levels: AAA - ABB.
  • IB: 34 points with 655 at HL - 32 points with 655 at HL.

Minimum entry requirement

The minimum entry requirement for widening access applicants is:

  • SQA Highers: ABBB by end of S6. BBB must be achieved in one year of S4-S6.
  • A Levels: ABB.
  • IB: 32 points with 655 at HL.

More information for widening access applicants

Required subjects

The grades used to meet our entry requirements must include:

  • SQA: Highers: Mathematics at A and Physics at B. Higher Applications of Mathematics is not accepted in place of Higher Mathematics. National 5s: English at C.
  • A Levels: Mathematics at A and Physics at B. GCSEs: English at C or 4.
  • IB: HL: Mathematics (Analysis and approaches only) at 6 and Physics at 5. SL: English at 5.

Find out more about entry requirements

International applicants

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.

Entry requirements by country

Mature applicants

We welcome applications from mature students and accept a range of qualifications.

Mature applicant qualifications

For direct entry to second year the standard requirements must be exceeded, including the following:

  • SQA Advanced Highers: AAA to include Mathematics and Physics, and one of Biology, Chemistry, or Geography.
  • A Levels: A*AA in one set of exams to include Mathematics at A* and Physics, and one of Biology, Chemistry, Geography, or Geology.
  • IB: 38 points with 666 at HL to include Mathematics (Analysis and approaches only) and Physics, and one of Biology, Chemistry or Geography at 6.
Other entry pathways

Entry to many degrees in Science & Engineering is possible via other qualifications (eg HNC/D, Access, SWAP).

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

SQA, GCSE and IB

For SQA, GCSE and IB students, unless a higher level is specified in the stated entry requirements, a pass is required in English at the following grades or higher:

  • SQA National 5 at C
  • GCSE at C or 4
  • Level 2 Certificate at C
  • IB Standard Level at 5 (English ab initio is not accepted for entry)

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

  • IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component.
  • TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
  • C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE): total 176 with at least 162 in each component.
  • Trinity ISE: ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
  • PTE Academic (including Online): total 62 with at least 54 in each component.

We also accept a wider range of international qualifications and tests.

English language qualifications must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the degree you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL or Trinity ISE, in which case it must be no more than two years old.

English language requirements

This information is part of a government initiative to enhance the material that higher education institutions provide about their degree programmes.

It is one of many sources of information which will enable you to make an informed decision on what and where to study.

Please note that some programmes do not have Discover Uni data available.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for MEarthPhys Geophysics with Professional Placement

Additional costs

The School of GeoSciences does not charge extra fees for compulsory field trips or field courses.

This degree involves a significant element of field study. We are proud to be able to support you as you learn practical and highly prized skills.

Costs of travel, accommodation and subsistence on compulsory field trips are covered by the programme, thanks to the continued support of our generous alumni community.

However:

  • you are responsible for any incidental/personal expenses
  • excursions as part of optional courses entail extra fees, which vary depending on the nature of the field trip

Dissertation costs

There may be some costs associated with your dissertation research project, including field costs.

You can design your dissertation project to minimise costs. The School of GeoSciences also provides a £200 allowance for using facilities to support your dissertation project.

Professional placement

If you are on placement you may incur travel costs. However, you will be paid a salary or stipend while on placement.

The School of GeoSciences also provides a £100 allowance to facilitate any specific training required as part of your placement.

Funding

For more information on how much it will cost to study with us and the financial support available see our fees and funding information.

Fees and funding

More information

How to apply

School: GeoSciences

College: Science and Engineering