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Environmental Sciences at UEA
Find out more about studying Environmental Sciences at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBSc (Hons) Geophysics with a Placement Year
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- F660
- Typical Offer
- ABB including Mathematics
- Contextual Offer
- BBC including Mathematics
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
Other Course Options
Other Start Dates
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1st
In the UK for Research Quality in Geography and Environmental Sciences
The Times University Rankings 20254th
In the World for citations per paper in Earth and Marine Sciences
QS World University Rankings 2025Course Overview
Why BSc Geophysics with a Placement Year at UEA?
Our BSc Geophysics with a Placement Year degree offers a uniquely broad Earth-system approach linking solid Earth, ocean and atmospheric sciences. You gain hands-on fieldwork experience and high-demand geophysical skills taught by active, research-leading experts.
Why choose UEA?
- Earth‑system expertise: Embedded in one of Europe’s largest and oldest environmental sciences schools, we deliver genuinely holistic Earth‑system understanding
- Immersive field training: You'll learn industry-relevant skills using advanced geophysical instruments, modelling tools and real-world field environments
- Flexible specialisation: You can tailor your degree toward georesources, geohazards, climatology, oceanography, or data-driven environmental analysis
What is Geophysics?
A Geophysics degree merges the power of physics, mathematics, and earth sciences to study Earth’s structure, processes and behavior. These methods reveal how natural systems operate above, within and beneath Earth’s surface.
It helps us understand phenomena like earthquakes, volcanoes, oceans and extreme weather. Geophysics links surface observations with deep Earth and atmospheric processes.
Geophysics supports sustainable resource exploration and effective natural hazard assessment. Its insights promote safer societies and more resilient environmental decision‑making.
You’ll also spend your third year gaining work experience in related industries.
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School of Environmental Science
We're proud to be one of the most developed schools of our kind in Europe. But what does it mean to be an excellent institution for environm...
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Exploring the Earth's Subsurface
What's really happening beneath our feet? Physicists and Environmental Scientists at UEA are using ingenious methods to work out exactly wha...
Placement Year
This course includes a year on a work placement, with relevant work experience, valuable contacts and real-world insight.
We have well-established commercial connections throughout the UK and beyond. Past students have worked in local and national government, in SMEs and multinationals, for environmental consultancies and research institutes and with conservation groups and NGOs.
You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement and in the first two weeks of your second year you’ll be asked to write a CV and to apply to a range of companies. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, but it'll also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you'll require after graduation. We'll, of course, offer our guidance and support whilst students are identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by a placement supervisor and a mentor from the University. You and your placement supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it’s progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we can’t guarantee any student a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers.
If you were unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you'll have the option to apply to be transferred onto the equivalent degree programme without a placement year.
Accreditations
This course has been accredited by the Geological Society of London. This accreditation status provides added assurance to prospective students that the course content and structure has been approved by an independent body of academics and industrialists and that the teaching is of the highest quality. An accredited degree will reduce the amount of post-graduation experience you'll require to apply for Chartered Geologist and Chartered Scientist. A professional geoscientist holding an accredited degree is eligible to apply for Chartered status one year earlier than those with unaccredited degrees. Those holding two accredited degrees (e.g. BSc and MSc) can apply two years earlier.
In order to receive the award of an accredited degree, you’re required to follow an accredited pathway – this is something that your adviser and course director will be able to advise you on. The accredited pathway requires you to take particular modules and requires you to undertake a certain amount of fieldwork (partly achieved by taking the required modules and partly by undertaking some fieldwork for the final year project).
Careers
Career Pathways
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Water Management
- Resource Exploration
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Risk Analysis
- Environmental Consultancy
- Hazard Management
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
After the Course
After graduating you could follow in the footsteps of past graduates and go into sectors such as water management, resource exploration, geotechnical engineering, risk analysis, environmental consultancy, hazard management or teaching.
Alternatively, you could continue your studies with a taught master's degree such as the MSc in Environmental Science or a research degree such as a PhD.
To get your career off to the best start, our Careers Service run annual Environmental Science events. These include alumni-led presentations and workshops across a range of sectors, including industrial, governmental and academia.
Study and Modules
Structure
This four-year course follows a similar structure to the BSc Geophysics, but with an additional year of work experience through an industrial placement.
You’ll start with a year of compulsory modules to establish your knowledge on essential topics. You’ll then select from optional modules in your second and final years, allowing you to direct your own studies and take as broad or focused a path as you wish. In your final year, you’ll also undertake an independent research project on a subject of your choice.
In compulsory modules, you’ll discover the general scientific principles governing geophysics. In multi-disciplinary modules from the wider Faculty of Science you’ll explore the essential analytical skills you'll need during further years – including areas such as probability, mechanics and modelling.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Across your years fulfilling your BSc geophysics degree, you’ll be taught by leading geophysicists and environmental scientists through a combination of lectures, laboratories, workshops, seminars and fieldwork. Our modules are informed by their specialisms, which means you’ll benefit from access to the latest thinking and research.
Most modules will have a practical element where you’ll experiment and gain valuable hands-on experience. In addition, you’ll have the option of going on residential field courses where you’ll carry out investigations to solve real-world problems. Past students have gone on field trips to places such as Greece, Spain, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and The Lake District.
Year one covers topics such as research and data skills, math, and topic modules, ensuring you can develop the knowledge and skills needed to support your module choices in years two and three. Our flagship UK-based residential field course during the spring break will allow you to broaden your disciplinary knowledge and develop field skills, as well as strengthening community within the course.
Assessment
At the end of each module, you’ll be assessed on a combination of coursework, project and examination results and this format remains the same throughout your time during the course. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose.
We also use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.
Structure
As the course progresses, you’ll study applied geophysics and continue to develop your mathematical knowledge. You’ll also enjoy more freedom to tailor your course around your own interests, choosing from a wide variety of modules.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Year two offers you a full choice across our modules, allowing you to build a degree appropriate to your interests and intended career path, whether it’s in solid earth geophysics, marine science, or atmospheric science. The research practice module offers opportunities to learn and practice hands-on skills. Optional international field courses are available.
Assessment
In year two, assessment for each module will usually involve a blend of coursework, projects, and examinations. The distribution of assessment between coursework and exams varies depending on the specific modules you select. Additionally, we incorporate practice assessments, known as ‘formative’ assessments, throughout each module to provide feedback before you submit your final, or ‘summative’, work.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year on a work placement lasting from 9 to 14 months, gaining relevant experience and developing your skills and knowledge. Our well-established commercial connections throughout the UK and beyond will help you secure the best possible placement for you. Positions are usually paid, and your tuition fees will be much reduced for this year.
During your work placement, you’ll have a UEA mentor who will visit you. You’ll take a Work Based Learning module to help you reflect on your placement and get the most from your experience.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Your placement year is not formally taught but offers a wealth of learning opportunities. You’ll reflect on what you gain over the course of the year with support from an academic mentor. Typically, you’ll spend 9 to 12 months working for an employer, gaining real-life experience of a field within or allied to environmental sciences. Example employers include environmental consultancies, local or national government departments and agencies, research institutions, charities and commercial organisations. We have well-established connections throughout the UK and beyond and will support you through highly competitive application processes to secure you the best possible placement. Positions are usually paid, but the amounts vary.
Assessment
Your placement year is assessed on a pass-fail basis by reflecting on a project portfolio of the skills and knowledge that you’ve developed and does not count to your final mark.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll undertake a research project, investigating a specialist area in professional depth with one-to-one support from an academic supervisor. You’ll also study a range of advanced modules from geophysical science as well as covering the wider aspects of the subject, in areas such as geophysical hazards, meteorology and modelling environmental processes.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Back at UEA in your final year, you’ll take up an independent project. As a student-led project this allows you to develop highly desirable skills in project management as well as acquiring in-depth knowledge and, where relevant, field and lab skills, all with support from your academic supervisor. Many placement year students base a very successful project on an aspect of their placement. As with year two, you have full choice for your remaining modules. Fourth year field courses are self-contained and run in the summer either before or after your placement.
Assessment
Back at UEA in year four, each module will be evaluated through a combination of coursework, projects, and examinations. The proportion of assessment allocated to coursework and exams varies depending on your chosen modules. We use practice assessments, termed ‘formative’ assessments, throughout each module to offer feedback on your skills and understanding prior to your submission of final, or ‘summative’ assignments.
Your final year will include a research project, which will be assessed through your dissertation.
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Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Mathematics.
Contextual offer: BBC including Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM plus B in A-Level Mathematics.
Contextual offer: DMM plus B in A-Level Mathematics.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in Mathematics.
Contextual offer: Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3 at 12 credits in Mathematics at Merit.
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit. Subjects accepted: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, or Science.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Environmental Science with a Foundation Year.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches).
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Mathematics.
Scottish Highers
AAABB including A in Mathematics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Mathematics.
Where applicable Science A levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Not accepted: Critical Thinking and General Studies.
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches).
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components).
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies(opens in a new window) for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window) offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme.
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- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
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UK Students: £10,050
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International Students: £29,300
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships(opens in a new window) for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’re eligible for reduced fees during the year in industry. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees pages.
There may be extra costs related to items such as your travel and accommodation during your year in industry, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: