Keele Undergraduate Prospectus 2021 2021 | Page 181

Geography, Geology and the Environment | 181
GEOLOGY
BSc (Hons)
Why study this course?
Geology examines global change over the whole lifespan of our planet. It is an applied
course that studies the Earth’s processes and materials, and the economic and sustainable
methods of discovering and utilising its resources. There is a strong emphasis on developing
fieldwork, laboratory, communication and applied research skills.
This course examines the Earth, its structure, formation, composition, history,
processes, resources, hazards and materials. It looks at rocks, minerals and
fossils, how they were formed, how they are exploited sustainably as a
resource, and what they tell us about the history of the Earth. It also covers
geological processes such as earthquakes, volcanoes and plate tectonics.
Geology is a practical subject with applied problem-solving laboratory classes
and field courses where you will learn how to interpret and map geological
features, and explore for future geological resources. This course provides a
diverse range of specialist options. We focus particularly on applied research
skills and you will learn to carry out your own research using specialist
software and equipment. Furthermore, you will complete a comprehensive
and integrated UK and overseas fieldwork programme. All of our single
honours students are encouraged to undertake work placement.
What will this mean for my future?
Our modern industrialised and technology-based society depends on
geologists to find natural resources such as minerals, hydrocarbons,
geothermal energy, metals, aggregates and water, for designing and building
foundations, tunnels, cuttings and other engineering projects, to understand
the risks from natural hazards and inform environmental projects such as
radioactive waste disposal or carbon dioxide sequestration. You will acquire
a wide range of transferable skills, including communication, decision-making
and problem-solving skills, and the ability to research, evaluate and synthesise
information from diverse sources. You will develop subject specific-skills like
the ability to manipulate, analyse and present geospatial data using industry
standard GIS and drawing software. You might choose to work in geological,
geophysical or environmental consultancy, in construction, mining, in the
energy sector, planning or insurance.
Indicative Modules
First Year
• Minerals, Rocks and Fossils
• Earth Structure and History
• The Earth System*
• Geology Data Visualisation, Analysis
and Interpretation*
Second Year
• Petrology
• Field Techniques (includes overseas
field course)
• Geochemistry*
• Palaeoclimatology and Quaternary
Studies*
• Geology and Society*
Third Year
Geology Dissertation and options
including: 
• Structure and Geodynamics
• Natural Hazards
• Hydrological and Engineering Geology
• Exploration Geophysics
• Advanced Sedimentology
* Single Honours only
Our course is accredited by the Geological Society of London.
UCAS Code - F600
Foundation Year
Yes
Indicative Entry
Requirements
Single Honours
A level: BBC
BTEC: DMM
Combined Honours
A level: BBC
BTEC: DMM
Course Duration
3 years or 4 years
with an international
or placement year
Placement Year
Yes
International Year
Yes
Learn a Language
Yes
For information on courses that combine subjects please visit keele.ac.uk/ugcourses