Geology BSc (Hons)

Course overview

Geology investigates how the rocky fabric of Earth and processes such as rock formation, weathering and sedimentation shape our global natural environment, how this environment has evolved, and how all natural processes are closely interlinked, from continental drift to climate change to the evolution of species.

It’s a very broad discipline that draws from other natural sciences, hydrology and atmospheric science to analyze and understand the planet’s workings.

You learn about fundamental geological processes such as the formation of mountain ranges and ocean basins and how they are linked to the history of life on Earth. You develop geological skills in sedimentology, lithology, structural geology, geochemistry, and spatiotemporal thinking and explore the environmental history of a region from its sedimentary archives and morphological features.

An annual field-based module enables you to develop practical expertise in applied geosciences as required in environmental consultancy, geoarchaeology, and earth observation. Fieldwork is significant and ranges from day trips to week-long residential trips to geological international trips.

Teesside is ideally placed to explore the geological diversity of the region, with the Yorkshire Jurassic coast running from Saltburn to Scarborough, the unique North York Moors, a manmade moorland created by Neolithic man, and the Yorkshire Dales, a limestone upland with limestone pavements unique in the UK.

You develop a broad interdisciplinary background allowing you to embark on a wide range of careers in environmental and engineering consultancy, including water and energy sectors, insurance companies and government bodies, or specialize further with an MSc Environmental Management at Teesside. An optional work placement year is included, at no extra cost.

Career opportunities

Geology graduates enjoy excellent career opportunities in mineral and petroleum exploration and production, geotechnics, engineering geology and environment-related industries in the UK and overseas.