Undergraduate Prospectus 2020 Keele Undergraduate Propsectus 2020 | Page 194

204 | Geography, Geology and Environment
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, applied research and
communication 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 with no cost options.
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.
KEY INFORMATION
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
For further information on entry requirements please visit keele.ac.uk/entryrequirements
International Year
Yes
Learn a Language
Yes