The Bachelor of Science (BSc) Earth Science and Physical Geography allows you to combine your understanding of both physical geography and Earth processes to address global challenges.
It balances data science, programming, and computing skills with traditional field and laboratory skills, along with a knowledge of geography and Earth science.
You will learn about:
- the structure and composition of the Earth
- the deep-Earth processes that shape the Earth's surface and impact the landscape
- the associated hazards such as earthquakes, volcanoes, and landslides
We will build on this knowledge to explore how oceans, rivers, glaciers, and human impact define the modern and ancient landscape. We will also explore how these processes impact society.
This understanding is important for leading research on global change and many of the world's physical environmental challenges.
The exciting nature of Earth science and geography means you will have a diverse learning experience during your years with us.
You can find details for compulsory and option courses through the 'Programme Structure' link below.
Switching degrees
Most of the courses in Years 1 and 2 are shared with our range of Earth science and environment degrees. You will then specialise in the subjects of your choice in later years.
As a result, you may have the opportunity to switch between degrees in your early years. However, some later courses may not be available if you have not taken the necessary pre-requisite courses. You should discuss your interests with your Cohort Lead to make sure that these options are still available to you.
We also offer a five-year MEarthSci Earth Science and Physical Geography. Typically, you can switch to the MEarthSci Earth Science and Physical Geography until Year 4 of your programme, provided you meet the requirements.
Option courses
One of the best things about a Scottish undergraduate degree is the amount of electives (called 'option courses') you can study. You have the opportunity to take a significant number of courses outside your degree in Years 1 and 2.
You can choose courses related to your degree, or you can try something different and new to you.
Changes to teaching and learning
We are committed to offering high-quality education to all our students. However, there may be changes to course options and delivery. All decisions are made to make sure we can provide the highest standards for your educational experience.
We try to provide a wide range of option courses to choose from but these can be changed or cancelled at short notice. Course capacity and timetabling constraints can limit places on option courses. Therefore, we cannot guarantee every offer holder their top choice of option courses.
Data innovation
A key feature of our programme is a focus on developing your skills around the generation and analysis of scientific data, aided by a 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
